At some point, whether you’re 10 or 80, you hit that wall of adulting (because even 10- year-olds have days too!) and perhaps long to be a mermaid for a moment or channel your inner Jason Momoa and Aquaman because you can.
It’s all about the sea and the wonder and appreciation that we have for nature, at this year’s Plett Ocean Festival taking place in just under a month. A space to explore and step-up as ocean ambassadors (mermaids welcome), where it’s cool to make a splash #plettitsafeeling.
This year the festival is once again headlined by the Marine Science Symposium and SA’s longest-running boarding contest, The Wedge Classic supported by a ton of events and activities for kids and adults. A coming together of an involved community and visitors to Plett, keen to be part of the waves of change. A festival for everyone to get involved in ocean observation, conservation, preservation and action, locally and in a broader sense. Partnered by ocean-friendly supporters who believe in making a difference – the Beacon Island Resort, Checkers, Wesgro and CapeNature.
The packed-to-the-gills 10-day deep dive on this unique stretch of coastline, and biodiversity hotspot, officially starts on 5 July 2025 as we welcome the migrating whales.
Opening Day Highlights
@LookoutBeach | The “officialness” kicks off with a chilled yet super important family beach cleanup led by CapeNature and partnered by Lookout Deck. Stick around and get involved in painting a travelling mural, plus, be part of a human whale tail photo opp to be captured by a drone.
@MarketOffMain | Celebrating Plett as a World Cetacean Alliance Whale Heritage Area, the unveiling for press and guests of a poignant mother and calf humpback whale sculpture by Malcolm Solomon takes place at the ‘Welcoming the Whales’ party with live entertainment, food stalls and bar service on tap. Everyone’s invited!
@theLookoutDeck | Later in the day, join the magical ‘Deep Blue’ undersea event after dark, with SA’s best DJs who will be mixing until late!
That’s only day one sea-people! There will be so much to do on the remaining 9 days from exploring the shoreline, diving with pros, birding and sand sculpting, a guided moonlight beach meander at full moon, boat trips to spot whales and dolphins and tons of hikes to choose from on Plett’s stunning coastal trails. All the while buzzing around the main events of the Symposium and Wedge Classic. The full programme is available and tickets are on sale via www.plettoceanfestival.co.za.