There’s a new reason for travellers to stop along the Garden Route. Towering above the entrance to Formosa Bay Resort in Plettenberg Bay is Africa’s largest 3D-printed structure! The striking Waffling Whale Tail – next to the resort’s iconic Waffling Whale Café – stands approximately five metres high with a unique texture that mimics that of the café’s famous waffles, making this a must-stop landmark for the coastal town.
Developed by Big Ideas 3D Printing for The Beekman Group, the 3D structure is intended to become a notable landmark on one of South Africa’s busiest tourism routes. With Plettenberg Bay renowned for its incredible whale sightings, the idea is to attract travellers for a unique selfie opportunity at this fresh roadside attraction that blends hospitality, public art and local storytelling.
“Plettenberg Bay is one of South Africa’s best-known whale-watching destinations with a long-standing connection to marine life and ocean conservation. We wanted to create something memorable that captures the spirit of this iconic coastline while giving travellers a reason to stop,” says Beekman.
“The Garden Route is also one of the country’s most iconic tourism corridors, and this installation is a way to create an experience-led destination where visitors can take a selfie while taking some time out of their journey to spot passing whales. This really connects visitors with the region in a unique and accessible way.”
Celebrating the Spirit of Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay has long been regarded as one of South Africa’s premier coastal destinations. The town is internationally recognised for its Blue Flag beaches, whale and dolphin sightings, indigenous forests, lagoons, wine farms, restaurants, and adventure experiences.
“Plettenberg Bay already offers visitors an incredible mix of outdoor adventure and family-friendly experiences,” says Beekman. “We wanted to create an attraction that reflects that coastal energy, celebrates the iconic marine life, and really complements the region’s tourism experience.”
According to Beekman, travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer more than just accommodation.
“Tourism today is driven by experiences,” he says. “People want destinations that feel memorable and worth sharing. Attractions like this create a stronger connection to a destination and encourage travellers to stop longer and explore more.”
Creative Design Behind the Sculpture
The Waffling Whale Tale design draws directly from one of the region’s most recognisable experiences: the fleeting sight of a whale diving beneath the ocean’s surface during whale season.
The textured finish is inspired by the patterned surface of a Belgian waffle. This ties the structure directly into the adjoining Waffling Whale Café, an award-winning café recognised by Restaurant Guru, where guests can enjoy sweet and savoury whale-shaped waffles, breakfasts, desserts and signature freak shakes.
The base of the installation has also been designed to resemble flowing syrup, creating a playful visual identity that has already proven popular with passing motorists, families and social media content creators.
Beyond the visual impact, the installation – considered the largest 3D-printed structure on the continent – strengthens Formosa Bay Resort’s positioning as an experience-driven Garden Route destination. Located in the heart of Plettenberg Bay, the resort offers quality coastal accommodation with convenient access to beaches, whale watching, hiking trails, marine safaris, boutique shopping, wine farms and outdoor activities throughout the region.
Waffling Whale Tail and Formosa Bay Resort FAQs
Q: Where is the Waffling Whale Tail located?
The Waffling Whale Tail is located at Formosa Bay Resort, outside the Waffling Whale Café along the Garden Route in Plettenberg Bay.
Q: Why was the Waffling Whale Tail built?
The installation was to create a landmark celebrating Plettenberg Bay’s marine heritage as one of the country’s top whale-watching destinations. It also strengthens Formosa Bay Resort’s visitor experience by creating a unique tourism attraction for Garden Route travellers.
Q: What can visitors experience at Formosa Bay Resort?
Visitors can enjoy quality accommodation, family-friendly facilities and dining at the Waffling Whale Café, while also exploring Plettenberg Bay’s beaches, whale watching, wine farms, hiking trails, forests and adventure attractions.
Don’t Miss Out!
Head to Formosa Bay Resort and the Waffling Whale Café in Plettenberg Bay and check out the Waffling Whale Tail for yourself!
The Beekman Group is a multi-award-winning, family-run organisation with a portfolio of almost 40 leading destinations across 5 countries, which also includes Cayley Mountain Resort (the only beach in the Berg!), 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 | Email bookings@beekmanholidays.co.za.
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Author: Agnes Matladi from Olivia Jones Communications on behalf of Beekman Group.
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