Hermanus is famous for whales. Period. Only… we were there in February, and there wasn’t a single fin in sight. Still, it made for a great stopover. We walked along the cliffs, browsed a local market, and settled down at Bientang’s Cave Restaurant & Wine Bar — literally in a cave by the sea. With a cold beer, a cider, and views of the waves, it’s hard not to enjoy this place, even outside whale season. So even if, like us, you visit outside the whale-watching months, come for this awesome restaurant. And if you do come at the right time, go spot those whales!
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Why you’ll want to visit Hermanus
The town sits beautifully between mountains and ocean, right on Walker Bay. You’ll notice immediately that everything revolves around marine life: art, markets, menus — everything hints at whales and fresh seafood. And even without the “big stars,” Hermanus is a delightful stop on your Cape Route.
Best time for whales (and what if you’re unlucky)
- June – November: best chance to spot Southern Right whales. September is usually peak season (and busy during the Whale Festival).
- May & June: sometimes early sightings already.
- February (like us): small chance of whales, but still great for cliff walks, wine, and ocean views.
No whales? Go for marine life light: dolphins, seabirds, sometimes seals. Or book a Marine Big 5 boat trip in the region (penguins, dolphins, sharks, seals, and – if you’re lucky – a whale).
Things to do in Hermanus (our favorites)
1) Cliff Path: the classic
Walk (part of) the Cliff Path along the rocky coast. It’s an easy trail with gorgeous views and benches in great spots. During the season, you can often spot whales from the shore. We did a short loop from the Old Harbour, stopping again and again to watch the surf crash against the rocks.
2) Bientang’s Cave: drinks in a cave
Our top pick in Hermanus. You sit literally within the rock face, with the sea right below. Perfect for a seafood platter, oysters, or just a glass of wine with a view. Tip: arrive early or make a reservation in good weather — this spot is popular for a reason.
More great places to eat & drink
Restaurant fully booked or just fancy a change? Here are a few other recommendations.
- Ficks – Pintxos on wooden decks above the ocean.
- Burgundy – Brunch with a view of the bay.
- Pear Tree – Casual menu with poke, seafood and burgers.
- Fisherman’s Cottage – Cosy, excellent seafood in a historic little house.
3) Hemel-en-Aarde Valley: wine with a view
Drive into the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Wineries sit in a lush amphitheatre of mountains. Perfect if you want to spend a slow, relaxing afternoon. Many tasting rooms also serve snacks or a light lunch menu.
4) Fernkloof Nature Reserve
Short or longer hikes through fynbos vegetation with views over Walker Bay. Gentle paths, great birdlife – perfect when you want a break from the busy coastline.
5) Markets & waterfront
On Saturdays, the Hermanus Country Market is great for bread, cheese, coffee. In town, you’ll find small art and souvenir stalls and a few galleries — perfect for strolling between your walks.
Whale watching: how to do it
When you think of Hermanus, you think of whales. The town builds up to whale season all year round. Even if you visit off-season (like we did in February), you’ll feel that everything here revolves around these ocean giants. As soon as you see the waves breaking against the rocks, you’ll understand why this is the place to spot them.
The easiest way to see whales is right from the shore. The town centre of Hermanus sits directly by the sea, with viewpoints almost hanging over the water. Gearing’s Point is the most famous — a natural balcony with perfect views over Walker Bay. During the season (June to November), you don’t usually need to look far. Often you’ll suddenly hear murmurs: “There! Behind that wave!” Then you’ll see a dark back rising or a tail slipping gracefully beneath the water. Binoculars help, but many whales come so close you can see them easily with the naked eye. In town, you may even hear the “whale crier” — a man blowing his big kelp horn whenever whales are spotted. A Hermanus-only tradition.
If you want to get even closer, join a boat tour. These usually depart from the New Harbour in Hermanus, but also from nearby Gansbaai or Kleinbaai. The boats head towards Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, where thousands of Cape fur seals lounge in the sun. And where there are seals, whales (and even sharks) are often nearby. Trips last about 1.5 to 2 hours and include commentary from guides who know these waters well. You’ll usually see dolphins, gannets, and other seabirds too. The guides share fascinating facts about the animals — when they mate, how they communicate, and why they love this bay.
Not a fan of crowded boats? Try kayaking in Walker Bay instead. You paddle with a guide along the coast, usually at sunrise or late afternoon when the water is calm. With a little luck, dolphins or seals might swim beside your kayak, and in the right season, whales may surface in the distance. It’s not suitable in strong wind or high waves — the sea sets the schedule here — but on a tranquil day, it’s truly magical.
Below you’ll find some great tours you can book!
Practical: plan your stop
- Location: about 1.5 hours’ drive from Cape Town (N2 → R43 via Botrivier).
- Parking: several areas around the centre/Old Harbour. It can get busy in high season.
- Day trip or overnight: both work. For wine and hikes, stay one night extra if you can.
- Best months: for whales June–November; for beach and wine tastings any season works.
Want to stay overnight in Hermanus too? Use the map below to find a hotel that fits your budget.
Hermanus is the place to be for whale watching — but even without whales, it’s a wonderful stop. Walk along the cliffs, enjoy a meal by the sea (Bientang’s Cave is a must), and drive into the valley for some wine. We were only here briefly, but we’d return in a heartbeat for a longer weekend.
