Image related to website content

Condé Nast Traveler recognises CapeNature’s Walker Bay for having one of the World’s Best Beaches

18 Jul 2024
Image related to website content

Die Plaat beach, Walker Bay Nature Reserve

CapeNature is proud to announce that Die Plaat Beach, located within CapeNature’s Walker Bay Nature Reserve, just east of Hermanus, has been featured on Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious list of The Best Beaches in the World. The only beach in South Africa to be recognised among a list of 34 beaches worldwide. This incredible accolade highlights the exceptional natural beauty and unique features of Die Plaat, solidifying its status as one of the most remarkable coastal destinations globally.

This 17 km stretch of beach is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery, rich biodiversity and historical significance. It’s rich biodiversity and unspoiled natural beauty can be attributed to the protected status of the Walker Bay Nature Reserve and associated biodiversity management efforts at play. The rugged backdrop of the beach is dotted by striking limestone outcrops while visitors to nearby Hermanus – the whale capital of South Africa – often detour to Walker Bay where the beach offers the ultimate viewing perch for whales passing by and seals sprawled out on the shoreline.

“We are immensely grateful that a beach, located on one of our reserves has been recognised by Condé Nast Traveler. Die Plaat’s inclusion on the list is an invitation to travelers from around the world to discover the beauty of the whale coast,” says Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature.

“This achievement is a testament to the extraordinary natural beauty of the Walker Bay Nature Reserve and the hard work and dedication of our teams on the ground to keep it in pristine condition,” he adds.

Die Plaat Beach also falls within the Walker Bay Marine Protected Area (MPA), which helps to ensure that the area remains a nurturing ground for the southern right whale. This adds to the allure of the beach during the spectacular whale season between June and December every year. The reserve is also home to many species of seabirds, including the African Black Oystercatcher.

Klipgat Cave is located along the coastline, where Middle Stone Age people lived some 85 000 to 65 000 years ago. There is also evidence that Khoi and San people lived in the area about 2 000 years ago. Fossilised tracks, which were discovered in the sandstone, are being studied.

Visitors to Walker Bay enjoy day hikes along the coastline, angling, swimming and picnicking but the sea can be rough and dangerous.

With its abundant marine life, historical significance, and stunning vistas, Walker Bay Nature Reserve offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Image related to website content

Klipgat Cave, Walker Bay Nature Reserve

Share:

Related News

Conservation Review 2025 Group Image
27 Jun 2025
Conservation Review 2025 highlights Western Cape’s biodiversity and conservation resilience and adaptability

CapeNature showcased its significant achievements in conservation operations and exceptional biodiversity protection over the past year.

The central message throughout the event and central to the theme was an emphasis on the successful partnerships the Entity has cultivated with stakeholders. Many of these partners were also in attendance, showcasing delivery on collaborative projects. The Entity relies on the productive co-operation of many partners to successfully execute its mandate in the Western Cape.

De Hoop Nature Reserve Bontebok
26 Jun 2025
2025 State of Conservation Report highlights progress and priorities in protecting Western Cape biodiversity

CapeNature launched the 2025 State of Conservation Report this morning at its annual Conservation Review, offering a clear, evidence-based view of the Western Cape’s biodiversity and how conservation efforts are measuring up.

Key themes emerging from the report include sustained efforts to build biodiversity resilience in the face of climate change, the value of strategic partnerships, and the growing integration of monitoring data into planning and policy.

20160529 072239 W12 1921
19 Jun 2025
A Win for Renosterveld Conservation as Haarwegskloof Declared a Provincial Nature Reserve

In a major victory for biodiversity conservation, Haarwegskloof, which includes the largest remaining connected stretch of renosterveld left on Earth has officially been declared a provincial nature reserve.

The reserve is owned by WWF South Africa and managed by the Overberg Renosterveld Trust (ORT), a non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting and restoring the fragile renosterveld ecosystem that once covered large parts of the Overberg.

Tegansmithphotography damaratrail 8
12 Jun 2025
Damara Trail Wins Silver Award at International Tourism Film Festival Africa 2025

CapeNature is proud to announce that its Damara Trail video series has won the Silver Award in the Tourism – Products category at the prestigious International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) 2025.

CapeNature’s videos stood out for their compelling storytelling, visual excellence, and ability to capture the essence of nature-based tourism in the Western Cape.

“We are incredibly proud that the Damara Trail videos have been recognised on an international platform. This award helps to underline our commitment to sustainable tourism offerings. Much like the Damara Trail itself, the video helps to tell the unique history and story of the Waenhuiskrans area to visitors both far and near,” said Sheraaz Ismail, Executive Director: Eco-Tourism and Access.

Thys De Pakhuys 5
11 Jun 2025
Climbing in Rocklands this Season? Here’s What You Need to Know After the Cederberg Fire

The Cederberg, a protected wilderness area managed by CapeNature and home to some of the most iconic climbing and bouldering routes in South Africa, was recently impacted by a wildfire that began on 7 March 2025. The fire ignited near Krakadouw Peak and burned for 13 days, before being fully contained on 20 March. In total, it scorched 20,834 hectares, spanning 97 kilometers of fire line, and included damage to the Rocklands “Bouldering Area” — a popular climbing zone. As a result of the fire, several popular climbing sectors and access routes have been damaged or are temporarily inaccessible. 

Biodiversity1
2 Jun 2025
The Big Biodiversity Challenge is back – Learners Tackle Biodiversity Crisis in Provincial Competition

The Western Cape Environmental Education Friends (WCEEF), together with members CapeNature, SANBI, Nature Connect, SANParks, Working on Fire, the City of Cape Town, The Environmental Education Association of Southern Africa (EEASA) and the Two Oceans Aquarium, is thrilled to announce the return of its successful competition for children in grades 6 – 9.