With its unparalleled scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, upmarket shops and endless adventure options, it’s little wonder Hermanus continues to grow in size and popularity. The coastal town also forms the centre of the Whale Route, with an annual Whale Festival celebrating these captivating giants at the end of September each year.
Set between the fynbos-covered mountains and the waves of the Atlantic, Hermanus is a haven for the outdoor enthusiast, and offers many fractional ownership opportunities, and it is the ideal over-wintering resort for those who wish to escape colder climes.
With its unparalleled scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, upmarket shops and endless adventure options, it’s little wonder that Hermanus has grown in size and popularity during the last decade. Visitors from near and far flock to the town to enjoy its many charms while local residents and homeowners savour the privilege of living in this unique region.
Hermanus has the status of being the best land-based whale watching destination in the world. Southern right whales visit Walker Bay from June through to December and can be viewed from aboard a boat, an airplane or the shore. Hermanus is home to the world’s only Whale Crier who blows his kelp horn when whales are spotted along the central sea route.
The Whale Festival has also become a feature on the town’s calendar. Hermanus is a cosmopolitan town but has retained some of its historical fisherman’s village heritage. A number of craft markets sell a range of interesting wares, a marimba band frequently adds a vibrant atmosphere on different occasions and the old harbour with its restored fishing boats gives a glimpse of times past.
Shark cage diving provides an adrenaline fix for adventure lovers and kayaking trips on the sea or lagoon can be booked. Fernkloof Nature Reserve offers a range of spectacular walks among the fynbos. Whether you choose to spend a day on one of the spectacular beaches or playing a round of golf, Hermanus has something for everyone. Many of the shops and amenities are also wheelchair friendly.
Hermanus may no longer be a village, but the character and atmosphere of this vibrant town offers a lifestyle few places can match.
Affectionately known as “the heart of Hermanus” the Village Square Shopping Centre and piazza is located on the Waterfront in the central business district of Hermanus, overlooking Walker Bay and the Old harbour. Here you can shop for that special item you have always been dreaming of and afterwards enjoy a thirst quenching drink and a gourmet meal at one of our fabulous restaurants, whilst the whales are playing on our doorstep.
The centre comprises more than 50 specialised shops and 10 restaurants. This is also the area where numerous events are staged such as the whale festival in September, the Music Festival in April, the wheel chair race in May, the Cape Epic cycle race in April, the annual Trans-Aghulas rubber duck race on New Year’s Day – all in all, a fun place to be
Beaches:
The beach at Onrus is ideal for the family. Flanked by a lagoon it provides an ideal playground for children.
A shallow river flows from the lagoon in which little children have an adventurous time. The beach can be reached from the Sandbaai and Onrus sides and is the only beach for the locals living in Vermont, Onrus and Sandbaai.
THE MILKWOOD RESTAURANT
The Milkwood Restaurant overlooks the beach and has been sited as the best seafood restaurant in Hermanus.
The Onrus beach is also a favorite place for local surfers.
Swimming
Surfing
Long Walks
Toilets
Parking
Shops
Pets
Braai's
LANGBAAI
Langbaai (Long Bay) is a favorite beach for those seeking a bit of peace and privacy. Formed between two rocky outcrops this beach is tiny in comparison to the other beaches. It offers good swimming and white sand.
Swimming
Surfing
Long Walks
Toilets
Parking
Shops
Pets
Braai's
KAMMABAAI
The ideal beach for families with small children. Parking can be found near the beach. Plenty of white sand and shallow water make this a favorite beach for the kids.
Swimming
Surfing
Long Walks
Toilets
Parking
Shops
Pets
Braai's
VOËLKLIP
This neat beach is often the playground of young adults. Great lawns, white sands and good facilities complement the beauty of this setting. Parking can be a problem during the holidays. Refreshments can be found during the holidays. This is also a good spot for surfers who can always be found in the breakers.
Swimming
Surfing
Long Walks
Toilets
Parking
Shops
Pets
Braai's
GROTTO BEACH
Grotto beach literally stretches for kilometers making it ideal for those wanting to take a long walk with the dogs. A restaurant, playpark and facilities make this a favorite amongst the holiday makers. Braai facilities and ample parking can also be found at Grotto beach.
Information available at www.hermanus.co.za