By creating an account, I agree to the
Terms of service and Privacy policy
Choose your country and language:
Africa
Americas
Asia Pacific
Europe
GGrotto Beach in Hermanus lies in an upscale seaside town that overlooks Walker Bay, a protected whale sanctuary. It boasts some of the best land-based whale-watching in world, and its pristine beach is equally brag-worthy.
Grotto Beach stretches for more than 2km – from Voëlklip to the Kleinrivier Lagoon, with Walker Bay Nature Reserve on its north-eastern flank. Seldom crowded, it’s great for long seaside strolls or an impromptu game of beach volleyball, without disturbing those who just want to bask and catch some rays.
Roughly halfway between Cape Point and Cape Agulhas, the sea water off Hermanus warms or cools depending on prevailing winds and the flow of Indian or Atlantic Ocean currents, but it’s usually warm enough for swimming. Shallow, temperate water, and lifeguards on duty from December to February, means the kids can splash and swim to their hearts’ content. Expect some windy days, though – Grotto Beach is a top-rated ‘gust spot’, which makes it an excellent site for kite-, wave- and windsurfing.
Ample parking, well-maintained ablutions with showers, and public braai facilities are included in the Grotto Beach amenities. Ramp access and specially designed beach-going wheelchairs for hire allow mobility-impaired beach lovers to enjoy Grotto’s scenery and wildlife too. Between September and November, southern right whales gather in Walker Bay to flirt, mate and calve, and daily sightings from Grotto Beach are practically guaranteed.
Explore thickets of ancient milkwood trees beside the lagoon, go fishing or horse riding at Die Plaat, bird-watch at Kleinrivier Lagoon, or follow the cliff path to Fernkloof Nature Reserve with its indigenous fynbos and herbarium.
Dutchies restaurant on Grotto Beach offers panoramic seas views and fresh seafood. Grab a front-row seat and toast a glorious sunset with a glass of famous Walker Bay wine.
Did You Know?
TTravel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Hermanus Tourism
Tel: +27 (0)28 312 2629
Email: hermanustourism@hermanus.co.za
How to get here
From Cape Town International Airport, hop on the N2 and take the Botrivier (R43) turn-off. Alternatively, turn off at Strand and follow the R44 along the picturesque coast.
Best time to visit
Whale-sightings occur most often between between May and November. September is festival season in Hermanus, when whales, wildflowers, spring and sailing are celebrated.
Around the area
Hiking in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve; whale-watching in season; golf at the Arabella Golf Club; shark cage-diving.
Tours to do
Wander along Hermanus’ wine route, take a trip around the Old Harbour, go on a marine sightseeing cruise, or take a walking tour of Zwelihle Township.
What to eat
Seafood and fresh fish are abundant in Hermanus. Crayfish (rock lobster) and perlemoen (abalone) are a seasonal treat – but best bought from reputable outlets, as poaching on this coast is also a threat to marine ecosystems.
Related links
- Hermanus Whale Festival
- Hermanus Wine & Food Festival
- Hermanus Old Harbour Museum
- Cape Town & Western Cape Tourism
Travel tips & Planning info
WHO TO CONTACT
Hermanus Tourism
Tel: +27 (0)28 312 2629
Email: hermanustourism@hermanus.co.za
HOW TO GET HERE
From Cape Town International Airport, hop on the N2 and take the Botrivier (R43) turn-off. Alternatively, turn off at Strand and follow the R44 along the picturesque coast.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Whale-sightings occur most often between between May and November. September is festival season in Hermanus, when whales, wildflowers, spring and sailing are celebrated.
AROUND THE AREA
Hiking in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve; whale-watching in season; golf at the Arabella Golf Club; shark cage-diving.
TOURS TO DO
Wander along Hermanus’ wine route, take a trip around the Old Harbour, go on a marine sightseeing cruise, or take a walking tour of Zwelihle Township.
WHAT TO EAT
Seafood and fresh fish are abundant in Hermanus. Crayfish (rock lobster) and perlemoen (abalone) are a seasonal treat – but best bought from reputable outlets, as poaching on this coast is also a threat to marine ecosystems.
Related links
South Africa on social media
Useful links
Explore
