Concierge Top 10
Staycation Recommendations
Top 10 Hermanus Activities and Experiences
10. Fernkloof Nature Reserve
Join flower enthusiasts who travel from far and wide to explore 60km of scenic hiking trails in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve – the only such reserve with both coastal and mountain fynbos, and with the most species in close proximity. Whether you follow the lush Tree Trail or book a guided walk, you can expect instagrammable views wherever you go.
9. Voëlklip Beach
A favourite amongst surfers, Voëlklip Beach is immensely popular during high season. Spacious green lawns lead down to the main beach, with a few rocky coves nearby for a more private beach experience. Buy refreshments at the nearby deli and coffee shop before joining sun worshippers for a glorious day by the sea.
8. Festival and Markets
The town of Hermanus is also known for its annual festival and markets. The most famous is the annual Whale Festival that celebrates the return of the Southern Right Whales to the shores of Hermanus.
7. Picnic at De Hoop Nature Reserve
If time permits, a visit to this pristine 34,000-hectare reserve, accessible from Hermanus in under two hours, is a must. De Hoop is renowned for being one of the world’s top whale watching spots – in August 2018, a record 1,116 whales were sighted in a single day. We can pack a gourmet picnic for you to enjoy on the dunes while you look out for these magnificent creatures.
6. Walker Bay Sea Kayaking
Join Walker Bay Adventures on a guided sea-kayaking trip from the historical Old Harbour. Delight in sightings of Cape Fur Seals, penguins, cormorants, Southern Right Whales (in season) and other sea birds and marine mammals, while your knowledgeable guide tells you more about Walker Bay’s rich marine life.
5. Art Galleries
Take a walk around town and visit some of the art galleries in Hermanus. You can meet some of the artists and see them at work.
4. Hermanus Famous Cliff Path
Hermanus’ famous Cliff Path, protected within the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, is one of the town’s most spectacular features. Stroll along 11km of rugged coastline, from the New Harbour all the way to Piet-se-Bos, just beyond Grotto Beach, for what is arguably the best land-based whale watching experience in the world.
3. Creation – Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Valley
Named one of ‘World’s 50 best Vineyards’ and ‘South Africa’s Best Cellar Door Experience’ in 2019, Creation will wow you with a truly sensory and highly innovative food and wine experience. A visit to this exceptional estate, set high up in the magnificent Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, is pure delight.
2. Shark Cage Diving at Gansbaai
Take the plunge on an adrenaline-inducing cage diving adventure in the heart of the world’s Great White Shark mecca. Not only will the experience leave you in awe of these powerful predators, you’ll also come away knowing a lot more about sharks and the area’s conservation efforts.
1. Whale Watching
Considered to be the whale watching capital of the world, and named one of the top 12 land-based whale watching locations in the world by the WWF, Hermanus offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Southern Right Whales up close. Spot whales from the comfort of your room, or go on a boat-based whale-watching trip with Southern Right Charters.