After the final exams are done, most matriculants dream of one last unforgettable trip before stepping into adulthood.
For many years, Plettenberg Bay and its famous Plett Rage have been the go-to destination. But not everyone wants to spend a week in large crowds or busy party venues. Some prefer a coastal escape where they can unwind, share memories with friends, and enjoy the freedom of summer in a more relaxed way.
The Western Cape is filled with seaside towns that offer that perfect balance. These are destinations with natural beauty, friendly locals, and enough energy to make it fun without losing their laid-back charm. Whether you want to surf, swim, braai, or simply watch the sunset with your best friends, here are five coastal alternatives to Plett Rage where you can celebrate your matric year with space to breathe.
Still Bay
Still Bay/Deklerk Basson/Unsplash
Further along the southern coast, Still Bay, or Stilbaai as locals call it, is one of the Western Cape’s hidden treasures. It offers wide sandy beaches, gentle waves, and the calm waters of the Goukou River, which flows right through town. The mix of sea and river makes it ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or floating on the water with friends.
The town has an easygoing feel, with markets, local bakeries, and open beaches that invite long days outdoors. Accommodation includes self-catering homes and family-run guesthouses that welcome groups of friends. Evenings are for braais, beach walks, and laughter under the stars. Still Bay is not about parties or big crowds but about connection, nature, and the joy of slowing down.
Kleinmond
Kleinmond/Aaron Yun/Unsplash
Only 90 minutes from Cape Town, Kleinmond is small but full of character. It forms part of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, which means visitors are surrounded by fynbos, mountains, and pristine coastline. The main beach is perfect for swimming and beach games, while the Palmiet River nearby offers calm waters for tubing and paddling.
Kleinmond has a relaxed village atmosphere, with cafés, markets, and friendly locals who make visitors feel at home. It is also one of the most affordable options, with a range of self-catering cottages and small lodges ideal for student budgets. Nights here are quiet, filled with the sound of waves and the sight of endless stars. It is perfect for those who want a peaceful and affordable coastal holiday with friends.
Pringle Bay
Pringle Bay/Katja Rooke/Unsplash
If you want a destination that feels trendy but still relaxed, Pringle Bay is ideal. It has a small-town feel but attracts a youthful summer crowd who come for the beaches, the cafés, and the social yet easygoing energy.
The beach is long and clean, framed by mountains and great for swimming or lounging in the sun. The town is compact, so everything is within walking distance, from local shops to small restaurants that come alive in the evenings. Many visitors rent large houses for the week, spending their days on the beach and evenings cooking together or enjoying music at local spots.
Pringle Bay offers enough buzz to keep things interesting without ever feeling overwhelming. It is perfect for groups who want a relaxed but social summer getaway.
Elands Bay
Elandsbaai/Ralph Malan/Wikimedia Commons
About three hours north of Cape Town, Elands Bay is a small surf town known for its simplicity and charm. The long stretch of beach is ideal for morning surf sessions, beach walks, or lazy afternoons in the sun. The vibe is relaxed, with most visitors gathering around campfires at night or sharing meals in small guesthouses and lodges.
Elands Bay attracts a friendly crowd of surfers and young travellers who come for the waves and stay for the peaceful atmosphere. Accommodation ranges from campsites to affordable self-catering spots, making it perfect for students. It is the kind of destination where the best memories come from quiet moments, laughter, and the sound of the ocean just beyond your door.
Hermanus
Hermanus/Rudi De Meyer/Unsplash
Hermanus is the most developed of the five, but it still offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and fun. The town is famous for its dramatic coastline, cliff paths, and beaches such as Grotto and Voëlklip, which are great for swimming and surfing. There are also excellent cafés, markets, and restaurants to explore, as well as nearby nature trails and wine farms.
Hermanus has a festive summer atmosphere that attracts both locals and young travellers. There is always something happening, yet it never feels overcrowded. Accommodation options range from backpackers and budget lodges to larger houses perfect for groups. It offers the best of both worlds, combining lively coastal energy with plenty of space to unwind.
The perfect end to a school year
Choosing a Plett Rage alternative does not mean missing out on fun. These are simply alternatives that offer endless opportunities to celebrate your freedom surrounded by natural beauty and good company. With space to breathe, the sea to calm your mind and friends by your side, there is no better way to mark the end of an era and the beginning of something new.
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