Plett is known for its amazing summer vibes, but guess what? Winter is about to get wild with the Plett Ocean Festival, running from July 4th to 13th, 2025!
Plett Tourism says it's "IT’S GONNA BE WILD! Plett Ocean Festival 4 – 13 July 2025". This fourth annual event invites everyone to "Observe, Conserve, Preserve" the beautiful ocean right on Plett's doorstep.
Forget those end-of-summer blues! This festival is all about having fun while learning how to protect our oceans for the future. Think of it as a chance for "regular" people to team up with the experts and become citizen scientists for marine conservation.
Don't let the winter chill fool you – the festival is packed with cool activities. You can explore rock pools, get creative with ocean art, and even catch some sporting events. There will also be opportunities to see amazing marine life up close, both above and below the water. Kids can dive into the "Ocean Aweh-ness Kids Club," and the "Black Mermaid Foundation" will offer educational underwater workshops for local children in partnership with Adopt-a-Swimmer.
The heart of the festival is the Marine Science Symposium, hosted at the Beacon Island Resort. This isn't just for scientists! Experts like researchers, marine biologists, and conservationists will share their knowledge in ways that are interesting and easy to understand, with plenty of "what the heck" moments that will blow your mind.
This year, key topics will include updates on the Cape fur seal population and the rabies outbreak. You'll also learn about shark research and Plett's role in understanding these incredible creatures. With whales expected to be in the bay, their "breaching, lobtailing, and spy-hopping" displays will be a highlight. The festival will also shine a light on delicate seahorses, dolphins, birds, and beaches, and how the Plett community is working to protect this ecosystem with "integrity, respect and purpose."
But that's not all! Surf and bodyboarding fans can get ready for the ‘Wedge Classic Surf & Bodyboarding Contest’, presented by the Plett Board Riders Association. This popular event will take place from July 7th to 12th at the Wedge on Hobie Beach, where you can watch amazing moves and maybe a few "hectic double rollos, front flips and unavoidable wipe-outs." For entry details and updates, check the Plett Ocean Festival website or Facebook page.
Plett Tourism CEO Patty Butterworth believes that "There is something magical about Plett in the winter. There are fewer crowds, the air is crisp, and the town becomes a fantastic setting for families to explore outdoor adventure and seaside fun.”
So, save the date for this "switched-on, pacey, fun, family-orientated, empowering winter festival"! Visitors will find fantastic places to stay, great restaurants, cool bars, and welcoming locals.
The full program will be available on www.plettoceanfestival.co.za from May 5th, 2025. Get ready for a wild winter in Plett!
