Hermanus grew from an old fishing village to being known as one of the best places for viewing whales. From the rocky cliffs these magnificent animals can be seen from as close as 10 metres away. From June to November when the Southern Right Whales migrate through and have their young in the may, hundreds of people on the shores are alerted by the 'whale cryer' as to their whereabouts.
Hermanus also has a lovely surrounding area of sandy beaches and dramatic cliff paths, perfect walking country and hiking to the nearby nature reserves of Fernkloof and Frans Senakal.