Hermanus is one of South Africa’s most loved coastal destinations—famous for its whale watching, cliff paths, restaurants, beaches, markets, wine farms and endless outdoor experiences. Whether you’re staying in one of our villas or apartments, this curated list brings together the top must-do activities, recommended by locals and seasoned travellers.
These are the experiences you simply cannot miss.
🌊 1. Waterfront Dining & Drinks
Hermanus has some of the best sea-edge dining in the country. Add these to your list:
• Fick’s Pool Restaurant
Tapas, cocktails and dramatic crashing waves—one of the most atmospheric spots in town.
• Bientang’s Cave
A unique cave-side seafood experience right at the water’s edge.
• Perlemoen Restaurant
Fresh local seafood with panoramic views of the Old Harbour.
•The Rock
A long-time local favourite known for excellent seafood..
• La Pentola
Continental meets Africa Cuisine with Views.
• Wine Bistro
Perfect for wine tastings and tapas.
• Skybar
Cocktails overlooking the Old Harbour—great for sunset
🥂 2. Beaches, Tidal Pools & Coastal Walks
Hermanus offers spectacular natural beauty. These are guest favourites:
• Grotto Beach (Blue Flag)
Ideal for long walks—go “as far as you dare.” Pack water, snacks and sunscreen
• Kwaaiwater (Shelly Beach)
One of the best sunset spots—bring champagne and a picnic
• Marine Hotel Tidal Pool or Mermaids Pool on the new Cliff Path
A refreshing swim with postcard-worthy views
• Kammabaai, Langbaai & Onrus Beaches
Great for families, surfers and relaxed beach days.
• Cliff Path Walk
Walk the 13km between Grotto Beach and the New Harbour or explore new sections—stunning ocean views and whale sightings in season.
🌿 3. Nature & Outdoor Adventure
• Fernkloof Nature Reserve
Hike among fynbos with spectacular mountain and ocean views. Free and unforgettable.
• Walk to 3 Dams
A scenic route ending at beautiful swimming dams—bring floaties if you’re not a strong swimmer (it’s deep).
• Kayaking with Walker Bay Adventures
Experience the coastline from the water; dolphin and seal sightings are common.
• Ebike Tours
A new and exciting way to explore Hermanus and surrounding areas.
• Marine Life Cruises
Enjoy a guided eco-tour of Walker Bay—great for nature lovers
• Shark Cage Diving
Nearby Gansbaai offers world-class, bucket-list shark experiences.
🛍️ 4. Markets & Local Experiences
• Hermanus Country Market (Saturdays)
Fresh food, coffee, crafts, musicians—an absolute must. Look for the Christmas Night Markets
• Hermanus Art Walk (First Friday of the month
A vibrant cultural experience through local galleries.
• Stanford Village & River Cruise
A charming day out including gin tasting, beer tasting and a tranquil river boat cruise (booking essential).
🍷 5. Wine Farms & Food Experiences
The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley is home to some of the country’s best wine estates.
Not to Miss:
• Hashers Family Wines (Epoche)
• Bosmans
• Bouchard Finlayson (picnics)
• Hamilton Russel Vineyards
• Newton Johnson (fabulous lunch)
• Creation (fabulous lunch)
Harold Porter Botanical Garden (Betty’s Bay) – beautiful walks and waterfalls
Nearby wine tasting in Stanford & Walker Bay region
Gin & Beer Tastings
• Misty Mountains Distillery – gin tasting + pizza
• Birkenhead Brewery – beer tasting in Stanford
🍽️ 6. Restaurants, Cafés & Local Favourites
• Dutchies at Grotto Beach
Perfect for a beachside lunch.
• Lizette’s Kitchen
A top pick for both lunch and dinner.
• Milk on the Beach (Onrus)
Casual lunches, waffles and ice-cream right on the sand.
• High Tea at The Marine Hotel
Elegant, decadent and perfect for special occasions.
• Burgunday Restaurant
A favourite breakfast, lunch and dinner spot.
• Breakfast Spots:
Oskars
CanDys
Francis
Just Pure
Cuckoo Tree
🐧 7. Wildlife & Family Adventures
• Penguins at Stony Point (Betty’s Bay)
A charming and educational outing.
• Whale of a Time Playpark
Excellent for children needing to burn off energy.
• Klipgat Caves (De Kelders)
Beautiful historical caves with ocean views—great photos.
🏌️ 8. Sport & Leisure
• Hermanus Golf Course
18 holes with mountain views—very popular.
• Sundowners
Kwaaiwater (Shelly Beach), Langbaai or Nannies Beach
• Morning Walks
Along the main strip, cliff paths or Grotto Beach with your loved ones.
🚗 9. Fabulous Day Trips
• Cape Agulhas
Visit the southernmost point of Africa—excellent photos and a great outing.
• Harold Porter Nature Reserve
Ideal for nature lovers, waterfalls and fynbos trails.
• Cultural Events
Check online listings—Hermanus hosts regular concerts, food events and seasonal markets.
⭐ Final Tip: Drift, Explore & Do as Little as Possible
Some of the best moments in Hermanus happen when you’re simply wandering, relaxing and soaking up the natural beauty. Local advice often ends with:“Drifting around doing as little as possible… enjoy.”
