Whale Watching in Hermanus

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Why go whale watching in Hermanus?

Immerse yourself in one of the world’s best whale watching destinations, where southern right whales come remarkably close to shore. From June to November, Hermanus offers unforgettable encounters along its scenic coastline.🐋

The Whale Watching Experience

Hermanus is widely known as the whale-watching capital of the world and one of the best places for land-based sightings. Each year, southern right whales migrate here from Antarctica to calve and nurse their young in the calm waters of Walker Bay. From the famous Cliff Path, you can often spot whales just metres from the shore. They breach, tail-slap, and glide through the water, creating a truly unforgettable experience. For an even closer encounter, boat tours from New Harbour take you out onto the bay.

Best Time to Visit Hermanus for Whale Watching

The whale watching season runs from June to November, with peak activity between August and September. During this period, southern right whales are most active and easiest to spot along the coast.

DISCOVER HERMANUS WHALE WATCHING IN HERMANUS

How to experience whale watching in Hermanus

From the shore
Hermanus is one of the best places in the world for land-based whale watching. Along the famous Cliff Path, whales can often be spotted just metres from the coastline, making it easy to enjoy the experience at your own pace.

By boat
Boat tours from New Harbour take you out into Walker Bay for close encounters on the water. This is the best option if you want to get as close as possible to these gentle giants.