The Whale Coast

Just two hours from Cape Town, the Whale Coast is all wild cliffs, penguins, whales, and small-town charm, the ultimate coastal road trip.

Betty’s Bay | Hermanus | Stanford | Gansbaai

Top things to do on the Whale Coast

From penguin spotting to whale watching, this stretch of coastline, known as the Whale Coast, runs through the Overberg region, about 90 minutes to two hours from Cape Town. It’s a scenic route linking small seaside towns like Hermanus, Stanford, and Gansbaai, each with its own blend of ocean views, wildlife, and local charm. Drive the famous Clarence Drive for jaw-dropping sea cliffs and turquoise bays, stop at hidden beaches and tidal pools, or hop on a boat to get up close with dolphins, seals, and migrating whales. Visit Fernkloof Nature Reserve for hiking, explore ancient caves near Gansbaai, and enjoy slow mornings at local markets or wine farms around Stanford. It’s the perfect mix of sea, sand, and adventure, without the crowds.

Betty’s Bay: Penguins and coastal walks

Nestled between mountains and sea lies Betty’s Bay, officially the longest village in South Africa, stretching across thirteen kilometres of untouched coastline. It is raw, photogenic and wonderfully quiet. No shopping centres, no rush. What you do find is a lively colony of African penguins at Stony Point. Walk the wooden boardwalk past these charming black and white residents, explore the remains of the old whaling station and feel the salty sea air on your face. The vibe? Chill, sleepy and calming. With its quiet beaches, tidal pools and mountains as a backdrop, this is a place that feels like a deep breath after the city.

Hermanus: Best place for Whale watching in South Africa

Hermanus is world-famous for a reason; it’s one of the best whale-watching spots on the planet. Just a two-hour drive from Cape Town, this coastal town draws ocean lovers from all over. From June to December, Southern Right whales glide into Walker Bay to mate, calve, and play. You can spot them from the cliffs, join a boat tour, or even take a scenic flight for unbeatable views. Don’t miss the Whale Crier’s call echoing through town, a kelp horn announcing a whale sighting. Outside whale season, Hermanus still buzzes with life: kayaking, hiking Fernkloof Nature Reserve, lazy beach days, and seaside cafes serving fresh seafood and local wine.

Stanford: Tranquil getaway with river & birdlife

Just inland from Hermanus lies Stanford, a peaceful village with slow charm and big character. Nestled along the Klein River, it’s a haven for birdwatchers, kayakers, and anyone who loves nature and good food. Expect craft beer tastings, riverside picnics, and friendly locals who still wave when you pass. For a true Charlie’s experience, stay at Coot Club, a beautiful eco-stay where you can horse ride on the beach, sail to hidden wine-tasting spots, or have a barefoot braai under the stars. It’s that rare kind of place where you can truly switch off.

Gansbaai: Shark cage diving & Klipgat cave adventures

Gansbaai is small but mighty, known worldwide as South Africa’s shark-diving capital. For thrill-seekers, cage diving with sharks and bronze whalers is pure bucket-list material, especially when done responsibly. Operators here follow strict ethical and environmental guidelines, ensuring encounters that protect both sharks and the ocean they call home. For everyone else, there’s still plenty to explore: hike along the coast, visit seal colonies, or step back in time at Klipgat Cave, one of the oldest human heritage sites in the country. Standing here, overlooking the same ocean your ancestors did 70,000 years ago, hits differently. Between its adventure offerings and ancient history, Gansbaai is wild in every sense of the word.

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All your burning questions about the Whale Coast answered

The prime season is June to November for whale watching, but this coastal route is great year-round for hiking, penguin viewing, marine adventures and beach time.

Yes! Hermanus has some of the best land-based whale watching in the world. There are lookout points all along the coastal path, and the famous Whale Crier lets you know when they’re spotted.

Betty’s Bay is about 1.5 hours from Cape Town via the scenic Clarence Drive (R44). Hermanus is around 2 hours. It’s an easy, beautiful day or weekend trip.

Definitely. Kids will love penguin spotting in Betty’s Bay, hiking in Fernkloof, kayaking in Stanford, and the chance to see whales and seals up close. There are loads of family-friendly lodges and beaches.

Self-driving is ideal for freedom and flexibility. The Clarence Drive route is one of South Africa’s most scenic coastal roads. Stop as often as you like along the way.

Nee hoor! Gansbaai heeft ook eeuwenoude grotten, surfspots, natuurexcursies en boottochten. Cage diving is een hoogtepunt voor avonturiers, maar zeker niet de enige reden om hierheen te gaan.

It’s a small riverside town with a strong eco-vibe, great food scene, and access to nature. It’s less touristy than Hermanus but just as beautiful, perfect for a relaxed escape.

Yes, from eco-lodges and beachfront stays to boutique B&Bs and off-grid cabins. We love Coot Club in Stanford and a few hidden gems in Betty’s Bay and Gansbaai.

Absolutely! Many travellers link the Whale Coast with a drive along Route 62 or through the Winelands, heading to the Garden Route via Swellendam or inland mountain passes.

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