Whales and sea, fresh fish and hiking paths on the rocks is what makes Hermanus such a spectacular coastal venue. Just 150 kilometers from Cape Town on the most breathtaking coastal road is this whale capital of South Africa.

WHAT TO DO IN HERMANUS

Hermanus is home to the Southern Right Whale that is around from as early as May to December. The best time for whale watching, when they are the closest to the land, is July to October. During the whale season you will encounter the whale crier. Hermanus is the only place in the world with a whale crier. Once he sees the whales he blows on his kelp horn to alert everybody about the whereabouts of the whales. On the sandwich board around his neck, there are explanations of the different horn codes as well as where and how many whales were spotted. A unique character that calls for the camera to come out.

Walk on the rocks along the waves, splashing its spray high into the air. Sit down and admire the beauty of the white houses on the cliffs.

Take a boat ride to get even closer to the whales. Try some shark diving or paragliding if you are brave. There is also golf for the rest of us.

Peruse the different shops and buy a piece of antique silver, a diamond or a Gregoire Boonzaier. Boonzaier was one of South Africa’s premier artists. His art gallery is in Onrus about 5 kilometers outside Hermanus.

Drive out to the Hemel en Aarde Vallei (Heaven and Earth Valley) for some wine tasting and buying.

WHERE TO STAY IN HERMANUS

Hermanus Esplanade and 45 Marine Drive have the best views over Walker Bay. You can watch the whales sailing past from your bedroom window. It is the kind of beauty that will keep you spellbound for hours, to scared to sleep or leave.

Hermanus Esplanade is basic accommodation at a very reasonable price whereas 45 Marine Drive is the luxury version. The view is exactly the same. Just make sure the unit is sea facing.

Auberge Burgundy is a lovely guesthouse just behind Hermanus Esplanade but doesn’t have the view.

WHERE TO EAT IN HERMANUS

The Fish Shoppe is the smallest and most unimpressive looking but the fish is the best. For a sit-down dinner or lunch there is Ocean Basket, Spur, Cattle Baron and many more.

Bietang’s Cave has the best view as it is build on the rocks where you can sit for hours to watch the whales and seals playing in the water beneath you.

Enjoy the splendor and beauty of the South African coastline while watching the whales passing by.