Hermanus: Whale Coast Wonder and Coastal Elegance

Just 90 minutes from Cape Town, Hermanus is a world-renowned destination on the Cape Whale Route, offering a blend of marine magic, mountain beauty, and culinary excellence. Whether you're here for the whales, wine, or waves, Hermanus delivers unforgettable experiences.

An aerial view of boats anchored near a breakwater in a harbor, with a sandy beach and grassy dunes in the background.
Aerial view of the ocean and shoreline with waves crashing onto rocks and a beach, with land and hills in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.

  • Whale Watching: Recognised by the WWF as one of the top 12 whale-watching destinations in the world, Hermanus offers land-based sightings from the Cliff Path and Gearing’s Point, as well as boat tours from New Harbour. The season runs June to November, with peak sightings in September and October.

  • Fernkloof Nature Reserve: Spanning 1,800 hectares in the Kleinrivier Mountains, this reserve boasts over 1,300 fynbos species, scenic hiking trails, and panoramic views of Walker Bay. Entry is free, and maps are available at the Visitor Centre.

  • Cliff Path Walk: A 12-km coastal trail from New Harbour to Grotto Beach, perfect for whale spotting, photography, and accessing tidal pools and caves. Wheelchair-friendly sections available.

  • Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Valley: Just outside town, this valley is home to award-winning wineries like Creation Wines, Hamilton Russell, and Bouchard Finlayson. Enjoy tastings, cellar tours, and vineyard hikes.

  • Sea Kayaking & Fatbiking: Explore Walker Bay’s marine life from a kayak or ride the dunes of Die Plaat beach on a fatbike adventure.

  • Art Galleries & Museums: Visit Lembu Gallery, the Whale House Museum, and local studios showcasing ceramics, African textiles, and marine history.

Adventure Awaits: Experiences for Every Traveller

Hermanus is a playground for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and those seeking serenity.

  • Shark Cage Diving: Available in nearby Gansbaai for adrenaline junkies.

  • Golfing: Play a round at the scenic 27-hole Hermanus Golf Club.

  • Beach Days: Relax at Voëlklip, Grotto, or Sandbaai beaches.

  • Hiking & Biking: Trails in Fernkloof and along the coast offer stunning views and diverse flora.

Dining and Local Delights

Hermanus is part of the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, offering flavours from land and sea.

  • Fisherman’s Cottage: Cape Malay seafood curry, snoek & patat, and crayfish thermidor in a historic setting.

  • Rossi’s Italian Restaurant: Thin-crust pizzas, pastas, and family-friendly vibes.

  • Theo’s Taverna: Greek-style grills, seafood, and syrupy pastries in a Mediterranean courtyard.

  • Pear Tree Bistro: Creative small plates, tacos, and poke bowls with ocean views.

  • Cafe 1904: Thai kingklip, springbok carpaccio, and seafood linguine in a heritage setting.

  • Perlemoen: Abalone tasting plates and seafood dishes in a restored stone shack by the sea.

  • The Rock & The Gecko: Seafood, sushi, and pub fare with cliffside views and live music.

  • The Marine Hotel: Elegant dining, cocktails, and sunset views over Walker Bay