Hermanus has been recognized by the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) as one of the 12 best whale watching destinations in the world. The best time to enjoy whale watching in Hermanus is between July and November either from the beach, the famous cliff path, by boat or from the air via a scenic flight. The whale viewing during the months of July and August vary from year to year with regards to how many whales are present in Walker Bay and along the coast; however you are almost guaranteed of seeing whales in September, October and November. For those with a more adventurous spirit, a guided sea kayaking trip promises to get the adrenaline going and offers a unique opportunity to paddle inside Walker Bay Whale Sanctuary.
Hermanus, particularly Walker Bay, is the mating and breeding grounds of the Southern Right Whales during the winter and spring months(from June through November). Southern Right Whales migrate from the Antarctic around June to calve and mate. Calving takes place in August and September and the males arrive for mating in October when the whale population peaks.
Popular whale watching spots in Hermanus
- The cliff path offers 12km of the best whale watching view points in the world, stretching from one end of Hermanus to the other. At certain points whales can be seen playing as close as five meters from shore.
- Drive south on Westcliff Road and park at Fick’s Pool. Take the cliff path towards the New Harbour for about 100 metres and arrive at Dreunkrans – a popular whale watching site.
- Park at Fick’s Pool or in Marine Drive and make your way to Windsor Bay.
- Gearing’s Point, overlooking the Old Harbour, gives an uninterrupted view of the ocean.
- At the Old Harbour viewing terraces are available with spectacular views over Walker Bay. Information boards provide basic information about the whales.
- Drive down Main Road towards the beaches (north-east) and take the turn-off to De Gang at Berg-en-See to arrive at De Gang View Point.
- One of the most popular locations in Hermanus for whale watching is Siever's Point, which is closest to where the whales frolic.
- The Kwaaiwater lookout point is accessible by vehicle.
- The Voëlklip and Grotto beaches are perfect for whale spotting and watching, especially on the rocks above the sea.
For more information, please visit our Activities & Operators page.
