Watch whales up close from the shore in Hermanus

Hermanus is considered one of the best places in the world to watch whales directly from the coast. Between June and November in particular, southern right whales gather here, coming into the sheltered bays to mate and give birth to their calves. They often swim astonishingly close to the shore – sometimes just a few metres away. With a bit of luck you can see them breaching, playing or with their calves – an unforgettable sight.

In addition to southern right whales you can occasionally spot humpback whales. Individual animals can be seen all year round, but your chances increase between October and February, when more of them are in the waters off Hermanus. The best place for whale watching is Gearing Point, where you can sit on one of the benches and scan the sea for these gentle giants.

Gearing Point is centrally located in Hermanus and easy to reach by car – there is a car park right next to the viewpoint. Because the whales often come so close to the coast, you do not even need binoculars to follow their impressive movements in the water.