Walk along the longest beach in Walker Bay

Grotto Beach lies east of Hermanus and stretches for more than 18 kilometres along Walker Bay – from the cliffs of the Fernkloof Nature Reserve to the Klein River Lagoon Mouth. The beach has won multiple awards, is part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is known for its excellent water quality. It is the longest continuous stretch of walkable beach in the region.

You start at the official access point with car park, toilets and a small café. From here you can walk east, past dune systems and fynbos-covered slopes. The firm sand is ideal for walking barefoot. In season, it is worth bringing binoculars: Walker Bay is a hotspot for watching southern right whales, which calve here.

Grotto Beach is a ten-minute drive from Hermanus. The ideal times for a walk are in the morning or late afternoon – then there are fewer swimmers about, the light is soft and, at low tide, the beach is particularly wide. It is also a good starting point for a day hike towards De Kelders.