Whale Watching Hermanus 2025: Best Time and Top Spots
Hermanus is famous for offering some of the closest land-based whale watching in the world. With its scenic coastline and calm waters, it’s a prime location to see southern right whales and more during their annual migration. This blog provides the ideal times to visit and the top viewing spots for whale watching in Hermanus. You'll also know which whale species you will see and simple tips to make the most of your trip. Let’s get started!
Why Hermanus Is the Best Place for Whale Watching?
Hermanus, a coastal town in South Africa’s Western Cape, has earned a global reputation for whale watching and for good reason. Recognised by the WWF as one of the world’s top 12 whale-watching spots, it offers some of the best land-based whale viewing anywhere. The calm, shallow waters of Walker Bay attract Southern Right Whales each year, who come here to mate and calve, creating reliable and often breathtaking sightings.
But whales aren’t the only stars of the show. The area’s rich marine life includes dolphins, Cape Fur Seals, African Penguins, and a wide variety of seabirds, turning most outings into a full wildlife experience. Its location is also a bonus—only 90 minutes from Cape Town, making it easy to reach for day trips or weekend getaways.
You’ll find a range of Hermanus whale watching tours, from scenic cliffside walks to boat tours and even aerial excursions for those after a bird’s-eye view. Visit during the Hermanus Whale Festival in late September for a festive mix of marine education, live entertainment, and local culture. Between its natural setting, easy access, and incredible biodiversity, Hermanus really is one of the best places to watch whales.
When Is the Best Time to Go Whale Watching in Hermanus?
The Hermanus whale watching season runs from June to December, when Southern Right Whales migrate to Walker Bay’s warm, sheltered waters to breed and calve. Peak sightings occur from August to October, with September standing out due to abundant whale activity and the Hermanus Whale Festival, held around late September to early October. During these months, sightings of Southern Right Whales are nearly guaranteed.
Humpback Whales are more likely to be seen from May to August, while Bryde’s Whales can appear throughout the year, though they’re less predictable. You might even spot early arrivals in April or late stragglers in January, especially mother-calf pairs.
For the best viewing experience, plan your trip between July and November, and keep an eye on the weather forecast. Spring in Hermanus can bring strong winds and cool mornings, so pack accordingly.
Best Spots in Hermanus to Watch Whales from Land
Hermanus is famous for its exceptional land-based whale-watching opportunities, thanks to its 12-km Cliff Path and coastal vantage points. The Cliff Path, stretching from New Harbour to Grotto Beach, offers spots where whales can swim within five meters of shore. Benches and interpretive signs along the path provide comfort and insights into whale behavior.
Gearing’s Point, near the Old Harbour, is a favorite for spotting Southern Right Whales, with panoramic views of Walker Bay. De Kelders, just east of Hermanus, is a nursery for mother-calf pairs, ideal for quiet observation. Voëlklip and Grotto Beaches blend whale watching with relaxed beach vibes, perfect for families.
A local favourite is the Whale Crier, who walks the town blowing a kelp horn to let everyone know when whales are spotted—a charming tradition that makes the experience even more special.
Since most whale watching spots like the Cliff Path or De Kelders have no nearby power access, so better to bring a portable power station to keep cameras, phones, or even portable speakers charged throughout the day.
What Whale Species Can You Expect to See?
During the Hermanus whale watching season, Walker Bay hosts several whale species, each with distinct behaviors:
Southern Right Whales: The stars of whale watching Hermanus, these gentle giants visit from June to December to mate and calve. Known for their curiosity, they often approach boats, showing V-shaped blows and callosities. About 10,000 Southern Right Whales inhabit the southern hemisphere, with Hermanus as a key nursery.
Humpback Whales: Seen mainly from May to August, Humpbacks are known for breaching and tail-slapping, adding excitement to early-season tours. They pass through en route to warmer breeding grounds.
Bryde’s Whales: These elusive residents are present year-round, identifiable by their sleek bodies. Spotting them requires patience but offers rare, close encounters.
Other marine life, including Cape Fur Seals, Common and Bottlenose Dolphins, African Penguins, and seabirds, frequently appear during Hermanus whale watching tours, creating a vibrant wildlife experience.
Tips for an Unforgettable Whale Watching Experience
A great whale watching trip in Hermanus requires careful planning and having the right gear. Find some useful tips below:
Pick the Right Tour Type: Boat tours get you close, kayak tours are for the adventurous, and light aircraft give a bird’s-eye view. Marine Big 5 tours from Gansbaai offer even more wildlife variety.
Time Your Visit: September to early October is peak season, with the Whale Festival adding extra activities. Book accommodation and tours in advance.
Support Responsible Operators: Choose tour companies that follow ethical guidelines, keeping a safe distance unless approached by whales. Whale Watching Hermanus is a well-reviewed option with online booking.
Stay Powered on Full-Day Trips: Drones, DSLR cameras, and other gear drain batteries fast, especially on long whale watching tours or remote outings. A reliable power source helps avoid downtime. The EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro Portable Power Station delivers 768Wh of capacity with an 800W pure‑sine output (boostable to 1,600W via X‑Boost) to run your cameras, lights, and communication devices all day. At under 30ms switch‑over for critical loads and supported by a LiFePO4 battery good for 3,000+ cycles (about 10 years of daily use), the RIVER 2 Pro ensures you stay powered and focused on spotting whales, not hunting for outlets.
EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro Portable Power Station
Dress for the Conditions: Dress for the Conditions: Mornings can be cold and breezy, especially on the water. Wear layered clothing and a windbreaker to stay warm and comfortable throughout the day. Don’t forget a snug beanie or balaclava to retain heat around your head, and insulated gloves to keep your fingers nimble—comfort equals better focus on spotting whales.
Conclusion
Whale watching Hermanus offers a breathtaking blend of natural wonder and coastal charm, making it a must-visit for South African adventurers and global travelers. From June to December, Walker Bay teems with Southern Right, Humpback, and Bryde’s Whales, alongside dolphins, seals, and penguins.
Plan your trip during the whale watching Hermanus best time (July to November), pack smart, and choose responsible operators for a thrilling, eco-conscious experience. Dive into Hermanus’s marine magic today!
FAQs
Which month is best for whales in Hermanus?
September is the prime month for whale watching Hermanus, falling within the peak season (August to October) when Southern Right Whales are most abundant. The Whale Festival in late September adds cultural excitement.
Are there whales now in Hermanus?
As of May 2025, whales may appear in small numbers, as the Hermanus whale watching season typically starts in June. Humpback Whales are more likely in May, but Southern Right Whales peak from July. Check with operators like Southern Right Charters for updates.
Is whale watching in Hermanus worth it?
Yes, whale watching Hermanus is exceptional, with a 99% success rate for whale and dolphin sightings. Diverse marine life, accessible viewing options, and proximity to Cape Town make it a top choice for nature lovers.