Hermanus Whale Watching Experience

Activity Description

Hermanus Whale Watching Experience
Hermanus Whales& Stony Point Penguins Day Tour
Full-Day Tour | Seasonal: June – November
Cliffside Views | Southern Right Whales | Penguins | Coastal Scenery

Escape the city for a full-day coastal adventure that combines whale watching in Hermanus, a visit to the African penguin colony at Stony Point. With pickup from Cape Town or Stellenbosch, this tour offers the perfect blend of marine life, scenic beauty, and world-class wines.

We begin with a drive along the spectacular Clarence Drive, one of South Africa’s most scenic coastal roads, arriving at Stony Point Nature Reserve to view a thriving colony of endangered African penguins in their natural habitat.

Next, we continue to Hermanus, known as one of the world’s best land-based whale watching destinations (seasonal: June to November). Stroll the cliff paths, enjoy optional boat-based whale watching (advance booking required), and take in the beauty of Walker Bay.

Arrangements

DurationOpen Ended

WhenSubject to availability

WhereCape Town

Weatherweather dependent

What to WearSwimming Clothes Hiking Shoes Warm Clothes Hat/Cap

Things to BringWhat to Bring Comfortable walking shoes Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen Binoculars (optional) Warm jacket (for wind or the boat ride) Camera or smartphone for capturing whales and views

Guests or Spectatorsfull paid guests only

Requirements

Minimum Age0 years

Minimum Height0.0 m

Maximum Height0.0 m

Fitness LevelNo Fitness Requirement

Maximum Weight0.0 kg

CertificationNot applicable

Experience LevelNo Experience Requirement

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions

Professional local guide
Private transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
Visit to Stoney Point Penguin Colony
Scenic drive along Clarence Drive (one of SA’s most beautiful coastal routes)
Whale watching from land-based viewpoints in Hermanus (seasonal: June–November)
Bottled water on board
Time to explore the town of Hermanus (shops, cliff path, galleries)

Exclusions

Lunch (on own account at a coastal restaurant or cafe in Hermanus)
Optional boat-based whale watching cruise (can be arranged at additional cost)
Personal purchases and gratuities

Notes

Itinerary

Depart Cape Town
Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point in Cape Town. Travel along the breathtaking Clarence Drive, one of the most scenic coastal routes in South Africa. Wind between dramatic mountains and the ocean, with photo stops along the way at Kogel Bay and Rooi-Els.

Visit Stony Point Penguin Colony, Betty’s Bay
Your first stop is at Stony Point Nature Reserve, home to a large colony of endangered African penguins. Walk the boardwalks among the rocks and watch these charming birds waddle, preen, and swim in their natural environment.
Duration: ±45 minutes

Hermanus & Enjoy a Seaside Lunch
Arrive in the coastal town of Hermanus, known as the whale capital of South Africa.
Enjoy lunch at a local seafront restaurant, with views over Walker Bay.
Recommended options: seafood, locally sourced wines, or a classic South African dish.
Dietary needs can be accommodated
Duration: ±1 hour

Whale Watching Experience
Join a 2-hour boat-based whale watching cruise (subject to availability and weather). A licensed operator will take you into the bay for an up-close and respectful encounter with these majestic animals.

Depart Hermanus via Sir Lowry’s Pass
Begin the return journey to Cape Town via Sir Lowry’s Pass, offering panoramic views over False Bay and the Helderberg basin. You may stop for photos at the summit or for a coffee break (optional) en route.