News

Plettenberg Bay has a striking new attraction that is turning heads along South Africa's iconic Garden Route. Standing proudly at the entrance to Formosa Bay Resort, the newly unveiled Waffling Whale Tail is believed to be Africa's largest 3D-printed structure of its kind.

Rising approximately five metres into the air, the impressive installation sits alongside the resort's popular Waffling Whale Café and features a distinctive textured finish inspired by the café's signature waffles. Designed as a fun and memorable roadside attraction, the landmark is already drawing attention from travellers, families and social media enthusiasts looking for the perfect selfie stop.

Developed by Big Ideas 3D Printing for The Beekman Group, the sculpture celebrates Plettenberg Bay's rich marine heritage while creating a unique tourism experience along one of the country's busiest travel routes.

"Plettenberg Bay is one of South Africa's premier whale-watching destinations, with a deep connection to marine life and ocean conservation," says Beekman. "We wanted to create something memorable that captures the spirit of this remarkable coastline while encouraging travellers to stop, explore and engage with the destination."

He adds that the Garden Route remains one of South Africa's most visited tourism corridors.

"This installation creates an experience-driven attraction where visitors can take a memorable photograph, enjoy a meal, and even spend some time watching for whales offshore. It offers a unique and accessible way to connect with the region."

Celebrating the Spirit of Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay is internationally recognised for its Blue Flag beaches, spectacular whale and dolphin sightings, indigenous forests, lagoons, wine farms, restaurants and outdoor adventure experiences.

"Plettenberg Bay already offers visitors an exceptional combination of nature, adventure and family-friendly activities," says Beekman. "The Waffling Whale Tail celebrates the marine life that makes this coastline so special while adding another memorable attraction to the visitor experience."

According to Beekman, modern travellers increasingly seek destinations that offer unique experiences beyond accommodation alone.

"Tourism today is driven by memorable moments," he says. "Visitors want experiences that are worth sharing. Attractions like this create stronger emotional connections with destinations and encourage travellers to stay longer and discover more."

A Design Inspired by Whales and Waffles

The Waffling Whale Tail draws inspiration from one of the most iconic sights along the Garden Route: the fleeting glimpse of a whale's tail disappearing beneath the ocean's surface during whale season.

Its distinctive textured finish references the patterned surface of a Belgian waffle, creating a direct connection to the adjoining Waffling Whale Café. The award-winning café, recognised by Restaurant Guru, is known for its sweet and savoury whale-shaped waffles, breakfasts, desserts and signature freak shakes.

Adding to the playful design, the base of the installation has been sculpted to resemble flowing syrup, reinforcing the café's whimsical identity while creating a visually striking landmark that has quickly become a favourite photo opportunity.

Beyond its visual appeal, the installation further strengthens Formosa Bay Resort's position as an experience-led destination in the heart of the Garden Route. Ideally located in Plettenberg Bay, the resort provides quality coastal accommodation with easy access to beaches, whale-watching excursions, hiking trails, marine safaris, boutique shopping, wine estates and a wide range of outdoor activities.

The Beekman Group is a multi-award-winning, family-owned tourism and hospitality company with a portfolio of leading destinations across Southern Africa, including Cayley Mountain Resort, The Kingdom Resort, San Martinho Beach Club, Hazyview Cabanas, Kiara Lodge and Dikhololo Resort.

For bookings and enquiries, visit www.beekmanholidays.co.za, call 0861 269 846 or email bookings@beekmanholidays.co.za.