Robberg Point
A stunning peninsula offering dramatic coastal hikes, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking ocean vistas. A must-visit on the Garden Route.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the golden hour sunset
Robberg Point
Best Time
Catch the golden hour sunset
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning peninsula offering dramatic coastal hikes, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking ocean vistas. A must-visit on the Garden Route.
"Definitely one of the best activities we've done in South Africa."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking shoes for rocky paths and wooden steps. Some parts can be precarious!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There's limited shade, so stay hydrated on your hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Point Circuit
Robberg Nature Reserve
An epic 9.2 km loop with breathtaking coastal views, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife sightings.

Cape Fur Seal Colonies
Along the coastline
Witness thousands of seals basking on the rocks and swimming in the ocean – a truly wild spectacle.
Panoramic Ocean Vistas
Various viewpoints
Experience raw, wild nature with stunning ocean panoramas and dramatic cliffside scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunset Hikes
Footwear and Fitness for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking shoes for rocky paths and wooden steps. Some parts can be precarious!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There's limited shade, so stay hydrated on your hike.
🔭 Pack Binoculars
Essential for spotting seals, dolphins, and whales from a distance.
⏰ Start Early for Sunset
The reserve closes at 6 PM, so allow 4 hours for the full loop to enjoy sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking shoes for rocky paths and wooden steps. Some parts can be precarious!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
There's limited shade, so stay hydrated on your hike.
🔭 Pack Binoculars
Essential for spotting seals, dolphins, and whales from a distance.
⏰ Start Early for Sunset
The reserve closes at 6 PM, so allow 4 hours for the full loop to enjoy sunset.
💰 Fair Entrance Fee
A reasonable fee grants access to this stunning natural reserve.
🍪 Delicious Pastel de Nata
Don't miss the amazing pastel de nata and cookies sold at the shack!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Robberg Point's breathtaking coastal hikes, abundant seal sightings, and diverse natural beauty. The Point Circuit is a highlight, offering a challenging yet rewarding adventure with stunning ocean vistas. While some sections can be precarious, the overall experience is described as unforgettable and a must-do on the Garden Route.
"Great coastal hiking trail. The views are beautiful and you can spot lots of seals. Sturdy footwear is recommended. Parking was a bit limited, but people are quick to help you find a spot. The entrance fee is fair."
Thomas Standfuß
"Excellent hike , we did the medium one (5.5km I think) it was perfect. It really has everything - beach, rocks, plants and wildlife. Many lovely view points. It really feels like an adventure when you do this trail. Don’t go if you have bad knees! Some precarious (but really fun) parts of the trail. Cute little picnic area at the beginning and end. The dude in the shack sells the BEST pastel de Nata and cookies. Will definitely do this trail again in my lifetime."
Liz Stanton
"Definitely one of the best activities we've done in South Africa. We had the 9.2 km trail and really worth the visit. You have some steps up and then down for several times, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes. You see lots of seals, thousands, in the water, together with sightseeing wonderful. Do not start too late because you need almost 4 hours considering stops for pictures"
Flaminia Cozzolino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Robberg Point is located just south of Plettenberg Bay. You can drive to the Robberg Nature Reserve entrance, where parking is available. It's a popular spot, so parking can be limited during peak times, but visitors are often quick to help find a spot.
The drive itself is scenic along the Garden Route.Public transport options directly to Robberg Point are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle or ride-sharing service from Plettenberg Bay. Many travelers on the Garden Route include it as part of a road trip.
The most popular way to experience Robberg Point is by hiking one of its trails. The 'Point Circuit' is a 9.2 km loop that offers the most comprehensive views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Yes, Robberg Point is part of the larger Garden Route, which boasts numerous attractions like Knysna Heads, Tsitsikamma National Park, and various beaches and wildlife sanctuaries.
The roads leading to Robberg Point are generally well-maintained and paved, making for a pleasant drive. The scenery along the Garden Route is a highlight in itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Robberg Nature Reserve is R60 per adult. This fee is considered fair for the incredible natural beauty and experience offered.
Advance booking for Robberg Point is generally not required. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival at the reserve's gate. However, it's always a good idea to check the official website for any updates or changes to entry policies.
Robberg Nature Reserve is typically open until 6 PM. If you plan to hike the 'Point Circuit' for sunset, ensure you start early enough to complete the 4-hour trail before closing time.
Wild Card holders often get free entry into Robberg Nature Reserve, so if you have one, be sure to bring it along.
Yes, you can drive your vehicle to the entrance of Robberg Nature Reserve and park there. The parking area is the starting point for most of the hiking trails.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The 'Point Circuit' is highly recommended for its stunning views and wildlife spotting. It's a 9.2 km loop that takes about 4 hours to complete, offering a diverse experience of the peninsula.
You can expect to see large colonies of Cape fur seals, and if you're lucky, dolphins and whales. Birdlife is also abundant, and some visitors have even spotted Bronze Whaler sharks.
The hike is moderately challenging. While some parts are flat, there are inclines, wooden steps, and rocky sections. The 5.5 km medium trail might be a better option for those seeking a less strenuous experience.
Yes, there are picnic areas at the beginning and end of the trails, perfect for a post-hike meal. Restrooms are also available at the entrance.
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. A camera is also a must to capture the breathtaking scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The entire peninsula offers incredible photo opportunities, from dramatic cliffside vistas to the seal colonies and the rugged coastline. The 'Point Circuit' provides the most diverse backdrops.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers the most magical light for photography, casting a warm glow over the landscape. However, mornings can also provide beautiful, soft light with fewer crowds.
While any camera can capture the beauty, a wide-angle lens is great for sweeping landscapes, and a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography, especially for seals and distant marine life.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be respectful of the natural environment and wildlife, and avoid disturbing them for a photo.
The dramatic coastline, the vast ocean views, the seal colonies, the unique rock formations, and the vibrant fynbos vegetation are all incredibly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be aware that some sections of the longer trails can be precarious with steep steps and rocky paths. It's advisable to stick to the clearer paths or the shorter loop if you have very young children or those with mobility issues. Ensure everyone wears sturdy shoes and brings plenty of water.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse flora and fauna, the pristine coastal environment, and the chance to witness marine life up close. The reserve is a protected area, offering a glimpse into the raw, wild beauty of the Western Cape's coastline.
📸 Photographers
Bring your wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for capturing the wildlife. Remember to be patient and respectful when photographing the seals and other animals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Robberg Hiking Trails
For those seeking a shorter or less strenuous option, there are also shorter loops available, such as the 5.5 km trail, which still provides beautiful views and wildlife spotting opportunities. It's important to note that the reserve closes at 6 PM, so planning your hike to finish before then is crucial, especially if you aim to catch the sunset.
Key Takeaways for Hikers:
* Point Circuit (9.2 km): Full peninsula experience, ~4 hours, moderate-challenging.
* Medium Trail (5.5 km): Shorter option, still scenic.
* Footwear: Essential for rocky terrain and steps.
* Water: Bring plenty, as shade is limited.
* Timing: Allow ample time, check closing hours.
Wildlife Encounters at Robberg
Beyond the seals, the waters around Robberg are known to attract dolphins and whales, particularly during their migration seasons. Keep a keen eye on the ocean surface for any signs of their presence. Recent observations have also noted significant numbers of Bronze Whaler sharks in the MPA, adding another layer of marine biodiversity to the area. The reserve is also home to various bird species and smaller terrestrial animals like the Klipdassie.
Wildlife Spotting Tips:
* Seals: Abundant along the rocky shores.
* Marine Mammals: Look for dolphins and whales offshore.
* Sharks: Bronze Whalers are frequently sighted.
* Binoculars: Crucial for distant viewing.
* Patience: Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed but always rewarding.
Photography Opportunities
Capturing the Cape fur seal colonies in their natural habitat is another major draw for photographers. Their playful antics and sheer numbers make for compelling shots. For those interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens can be invaluable for capturing marine life like dolphins and whales from the shore. The unique geological formations and the vibrant fynbos vegetation also add texture and color to your photographs.
Photography Essentials:
* Wide-angle lens: For sweeping landscapes.
* Telephoto lens: For wildlife and distant details.
* Golden Hour: Late afternoon offers magical light.
* Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit