Coastal cliff path in Hermanus overlooking Walker Bay in southern right whale season

Whale Watching Highlights

Hermanus Whale Walk

The Hermanus Cliff Path is a 12 km waymarked coastal walk from New Harbour to Grotto Beach that hugs the edge of Walker Bay. In whale season it is arguably the best shore-based whale-watching walk in the world — southern right whales regularly cruise within a few dozen metres of the path.

  • Length~12 km one way
  • DifficultyEasy — mostly flat
  • Best sectionsGearing's Point to Kwaaiwater
  • SeasonJune to November for whales

Why visit Hermanus Whale Walk

Best-in-class shore-based whale watching in season.

A walkable connector for cafés, coffee stops and viewpoints along the Hermanus seafront.

Where Hermanus Whale Walk is

Runs along the Hermanus coastline from the New Harbour in the west to Grotto Beach in the east.

What to expect

A well-maintained pedestrian path with benches, whale-viewing platforms and interpretation boards.

In season, the town's Whale Crier historically walked the path blowing a kelp horn to signal sightings.

How to include Hermanus Whale Walk in a Wanderer private tour

On a Wanderer whale-watching day we typically walk the Gearing's Point to Kwaaiwater section (about an hour), then continue by vehicle to a boat trip or estate lunch.

Practical tips

  • Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
  • Windbreaker even in summer — the coast can be breezy.

Frequently asked

Questions about Hermanus Whale Walk

Plan your trip

Include Hermanus Whale Walk in your Wanderer private tour

Share your dates and interests and we'll design a private route around Hermanus Whale Walk — with a professional guide, a branded Mercedes vehicle and every logistical detail handled.

Cape Town Highlights — updated regularly