Whale Season in Hermanus
From mid-winter to late spring, southern right and humpback whales return to the waters off Hermanus. Between June and November, they gather in Walker Bay to mate, calve and rear their young. This is whale season, and its arrival is marked by plumes of spray and the dark curve of a tail fluke breaking the surface.
During this time, wildlife enthusiasts, tourists and holidaymakers from around the world rightfully flock to our pristine coastal town. For a few months, the Hermanus shoreline turns into an amphitheatre for spectating these gentle giants. If you are planning a whale season trip, the choice of base matters, and Hermanus Boutique Guest House sits within easy reach of the main lookout points, with Walker Bay on its doorstep.
Best Whale Watching Spots in Hermanus
One of the best things about whale season here is that you do not need to go far for a sighting. Hermanus is recognised as one of the world’s best land-based whale watching destinations. Overlooking the bay, Hermanus Boutique Guest House puts guests within walking distance of several of the best vantage points. For those after a closer encounter, boat-based trips are covered further down – let’s first discover the area.
Cliff Path
With Hermanus Boutique Guest House as your base for the whale season, the Cliff Path is only a short walk away. The trail runs roughly 12km from the New Harbour to Grotto Beach, with lookout points along the way to scan the horizon for breaching. In places, whales can be seen just metres from the shore. Fynbos vegetation and art installations line parts of the route, enriching your whale watching walk even further. During your stay, you can join the path at Fick’s Pool, across the road from the guest house and conveniently also the site of a top-rated Hermanus restaurant.
Gearing’s Point
Once a lookout for fishermen returning to the Old Harbour, Gearing’s Point is now a small but popular whale watching spot in the centre of Hermanus. On quiet days, it is a golden arena that offers uninterrupted views of the ocean. Its elevated position also offers a unique vantage point that makes it easy to pick up movement in the water. However, when the whales are most active, the point can get busy. At those times, follow the rocky outcrop paths, find a bench or settle on one of the grassy areas nearby. Here, you can watch the whales without having to contend for a spot. Gearing’s Point is about a 10-minute walk from Hermanus Boutique Guest House. This means that when the whale crier signals a sighting, you are close enough to reach a good viewing spot.
Whale Season Ocean Adventures
For those looking to get closer to the action during whale season, boat-based trips offer a different perspective. Various licensed operators run tours from the New Harbour, heading out in search of southern right and humpback whales. Permits allow boats to approach within 50 metres, though the whales are naturally curious and often close the distance themselves. Trips run daily from June to November, weather permitting, and usually last around two hours. Alongside the whales, you may spot dolphins, Cape fur seals and seabirds. The New Harbour is a short drive from Hermanus Boutique Guest House. Our team can help arrange a whale charter trip and other activities during your stay.
We would recommend visiting Hermanus during whale season to wildlife enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike. While coastal holidays and summer usually go hand-in-hand, the majority of whale season runs across the colder months. Luckily, Hermanus is one of the best winter getaway destinations along South Africa’s shoreline. It comes with fewer crowds, more whales and enough fine wine and gourmet dining to keep you cosy. Discover our guide for a Hermanus winter.