Hermanus Whale Watching
Each year, between July and October, Southern Right whales drift into Walker Bay, bringing with them a sense of wonder that turns the sleepy seaside town into a buzzing hub of wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and families bundled up in windbreakers.
What makes Hermanus unique is how close to shore the whales venture. At times, they come within metres of the coastline, making land-based whale watching not just possible but truly memorable. The Cliff Path, a scenic 12-kilometre trail hugging the shoreline, offers panoramic views and dozens of perfect view points. Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens, or just grab a takeaway coffee and settle on one of the many benches near the water with your phone camera while you wait for a fin to break the surface.
For those looking to get even closer out on the ocean, boat-based whale watching tours operate daily during the season, weather permitting. Charter boats depart from the New Harbour and are usually 1.5 to 2 hours long and the licensed tour operators follow strict environmental guidelines to ensure minimal disturbance to the whales. We strongly advise booking ahead during peak times, especially around the Hermanus Whale Festival, which takes place each September (the festival is a lively celebration with live music, food stalls, eco-talks, and activities for children and adults).
While Southern Right whales are the headline act, visitors might also spot Humpbacks, Bryde’s whales, and even the occasional pod of dolphins dancing in the waves. The stars of the show, these gentle giants can often be seen breaching, spyhopping, or slapping their tails on the water’s surface. A good guide will point out seabirds, explain whale behaviour, and share local legends that add depth to the experience.
Planning your trip around the whale watching season means packing warm layers, as mornings can be quite cool and coastal winds are unpredictable. The best times for sightings are typically between mid-August and early October, but we usually start seeing the first whales in July. Early mornings often offer calmer seas and better visibility, though you may be lucky enough to see whale activity in the golden light of late afternoon.
If you’re staying in the area, the Overberg region has more to offer than just its marine giants. Stony Point Penguin Colony in Betty’s Bay is just an hour away and makes for an easy day trip. Wine farms in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley tempt with award-winning Pinot Noir and sweeping vineyard views. Fernkloof Nature Reserve, just above the town, is a botanist’s dream with walking trails through fynbos landscapes. You’ll also find many guesthouses, hotels and self-catering apartments in the area if you need somewhere to stay.
Some tips to keep in mind when booking a whale tour: choose operators that are registered and experienced and look for small-group options that offer a more intimate experience. Book early, especially if you’re planning your visit around a weekend or public holiday.
Hermanus may be a small town, but during whale season, it holds the magic of a wildlife documentary brought to life!
Useful Resources:
Join our growing community on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube and get a daily dose of travel tips, wildlife moments, and behind-the-scenes insights from South Africa’s coast.
