Guidebook for Hermanus

Eduard
Guidebook for Hermanus

Food Scene

Welcome to our little piece of paradise in South Africa’s sought-after Walker Bay Wine Region. Here, high up on the scenic Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, every dawn brings an exciting new challenge and innovation is a way of life. This trendsetting spirit has shaped our vision and led to many a thrilling achievement as reflected in our impressive list of wine awards.
116 locals recommend
Creation Wines
116 locals recommend
Welcome to our little piece of paradise in South Africa’s sought-after Walker Bay Wine Region. Here, high up on the scenic Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, every dawn brings an exciting new challenge and innovation is a way of life. This trendsetting spirit has shaped our vision and led to many a thrilling achievement as reflected in our impressive list of wine awards.
A new addition to Hermanus, it’s a little out of the way but worth making a special trip for. Watch (and catch the aromas) as Justin Dods does the coffee roasting. Toni Smith is the foodie and believes in fresh and healthy, and when locals flock to a place like this you know it’s good. It’s a breakfast and lunch spot and closes at 4pm so make sure you get there early.
7 locals recommend
Tulip Coffee Roasting.
14 Hope St
7 locals recommend
A new addition to Hermanus, it’s a little out of the way but worth making a special trip for. Watch (and catch the aromas) as Justin Dods does the coffee roasting. Toni Smith is the foodie and believes in fresh and healthy, and when locals flock to a place like this you know it’s good. It’s a breakfast and lunch spot and closes at 4pm so make sure you get there early.
It’s easy to miss this little coffee shop but it’s the buzziest place in town for locals, and the table of freshly baked cakes and goodies is hard to resist. There are excellent juices, and a white and bright décor with flashes of colour that add to the modern clean feel. This is the spot for a cream cheese and lemon-meringue pancake. It’s child friendly, with lots of space, and is ideal for coffee and cake, and your new books.
32 locals recommend
Betty Blue Bistro
126 Main Rd
32 locals recommend
It’s easy to miss this little coffee shop but it’s the buzziest place in town for locals, and the table of freshly baked cakes and goodies is hard to resist. There are excellent juices, and a white and bright décor with flashes of colour that add to the modern clean feel. This is the spot for a cream cheese and lemon-meringue pancake. It’s child friendly, with lots of space, and is ideal for coffee and cake, and your new books.
Pear Tree, situated on the Piazza of Hermanus offers a modern bistro feel with creative & tasteful dishes offering a scenic view with outside seating. This intimate bistro offers a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere making you feel at home by using local produce, local beers & local wines. The name originated from the owner Petri Hendriksz, who worked in the UK. His colleagues called him Pear Tree as they could not pronounce his first name hence Pear Tree Bistro was born.
42 locals recommend
Pear Tree Bistro
81 Marine Dr
42 locals recommend
Pear Tree, situated on the Piazza of Hermanus offers a modern bistro feel with creative & tasteful dishes offering a scenic view with outside seating. This intimate bistro offers a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere making you feel at home by using local produce, local beers & local wines. The name originated from the owner Petri Hendriksz, who worked in the UK. His colleagues called him Pear Tree as they could not pronounce his first name hence Pear Tree Bistro was born.
As an accompaniment to great coffee, they serve freshly baked pastries, scones, muffins and almond tart, and also make their own bread. The breakfasts and lunches are delicious.The cake is thick and rich, with chocolate mousse icing. Mother and daughter partners Sanmarie Swanepoel and Lizanne Olivier are the brains behind this coffee shop, which has a light, bright feel and is central for exploring the town.
18 locals recommend
Oskars Delikatessen
27 High St
18 locals recommend
As an accompaniment to great coffee, they serve freshly baked pastries, scones, muffins and almond tart, and also make their own bread. The breakfasts and lunches are delicious.The cake is thick and rich, with chocolate mousse icing. Mother and daughter partners Sanmarie Swanepoel and Lizanne Olivier are the brains behind this coffee shop, which has a light, bright feel and is central for exploring the town.
This beautiful grade 3B listed Heritage farmhouse set in 1900sqm of erf sits at the entrance to the Voelklip residential district and Grotto Beach. One of the first buildings in the area it dates back to before the 1900's. After years of neglect the building has been lovingly restored and converted into a restaurant and bar. With a contemporary feel of where the old meets the new with original Oregon floors and exposed timber beams coupled with two cosy fire areas. The feeling of space is apparent, folding doors allow the outside world in with west facing scenic views of the mountains from the outside deck and beautiful sunsets on a summers evening.
70 locals recommend
Lizettes Kitchen Bar & Restaurant
70 locals recommend
This beautiful grade 3B listed Heritage farmhouse set in 1900sqm of erf sits at the entrance to the Voelklip residential district and Grotto Beach. One of the first buildings in the area it dates back to before the 1900's. After years of neglect the building has been lovingly restored and converted into a restaurant and bar. With a contemporary feel of where the old meets the new with original Oregon floors and exposed timber beams coupled with two cosy fire areas. The feeling of space is apparent, folding doors allow the outside world in with west facing scenic views of the mountains from the outside deck and beautiful sunsets on a summers evening.
Situated on the top of the cliff overlooking the bustling New Harbour in Hermanus, Harbour Rock restaurant (known simply as The Rock by locals) has the most spectacular view looking back towards the village across Walker Bay. From June to December there are almost daily sightings of whales close up from Harbour Rock. Our cuisine is simple, stylish and delicious, consisting of fresh seafood, steak and delicious curries and bredies prepared by new head chef Jon Light. Our unsurpassed sushi and dim sum is prepared under the watchful eye of Louis Jiang, who is an absolute perfectionist of his art. What an awesome way to while away a couple of pleasurable hours!
59 locals recommend
Harbour Rock Restaurant | Seagrill and Sushi
59 locals recommend
Situated on the top of the cliff overlooking the bustling New Harbour in Hermanus, Harbour Rock restaurant (known simply as The Rock by locals) has the most spectacular view looking back towards the village across Walker Bay. From June to December there are almost daily sightings of whales close up from Harbour Rock. Our cuisine is simple, stylish and delicious, consisting of fresh seafood, steak and delicious curries and bredies prepared by new head chef Jon Light. Our unsurpassed sushi and dim sum is prepared under the watchful eye of Louis Jiang, who is an absolute perfectionist of his art. What an awesome way to while away a couple of pleasurable hours!
Spookfontein is a boutique wine estate in the Hemel and Aarde Valley - neighbouring the coastal town and whale watching capital of Hermanus. The name ‘Spook’ - Dutch for “ghost” - derives from the myth that one can discern a “spirit” within the swirls of the flowing spring. Nested between The Kleinriver - and Babilonstoring Mountains, this 313 hectare farm offers wine aficionados a beautiful variety of robust wines - grown from rocky soil and nurtured by Walker Bay’s timeless cold sea air, blown in by the Cape Doctor on summer evenings. The farm, originating in 1847 is a Fynbos heaven, with a mere 14 hectares under vine and Olive trees growing stoically on the road to the mountain.
28 locals recommend
Spookfontein Wines & Spookfontein Restaurant & Spookfontein Cottages
28 locals recommend
Spookfontein is a boutique wine estate in the Hemel and Aarde Valley - neighbouring the coastal town and whale watching capital of Hermanus. The name ‘Spook’ - Dutch for “ghost” - derives from the myth that one can discern a “spirit” within the swirls of the flowing spring. Nested between The Kleinriver - and Babilonstoring Mountains, this 313 hectare farm offers wine aficionados a beautiful variety of robust wines - grown from rocky soil and nurtured by Walker Bay’s timeless cold sea air, blown in by the Cape Doctor on summer evenings. The farm, originating in 1847 is a Fynbos heaven, with a mere 14 hectares under vine and Olive trees growing stoically on the road to the mountain.
Char’d Grill & Wine Bar is a bespoke establishment in the Village Square on the famous Hermanus waterfront. While meat eaters have come to accept the view that a good steak has to be one of the traditionally tender and juicy cuts, at Char’d the emphasis is on unusual and innovative cuts of beef as well as the old time classics. Supplied by artisan butchers who are following the modern global trend to utilise as much of the carcass as possible, these new wave, alternative cuts are no longer flying under the radar and are presenting diners with a whole new culinary experience.
39 locals recommend
Char’d Grill & Wine Bar
Market Square Street
39 locals recommend
Char’d Grill & Wine Bar is a bespoke establishment in the Village Square on the famous Hermanus waterfront. While meat eaters have come to accept the view that a good steak has to be one of the traditionally tender and juicy cuts, at Char’d the emphasis is on unusual and innovative cuts of beef as well as the old time classics. Supplied by artisan butchers who are following the modern global trend to utilise as much of the carcass as possible, these new wave, alternative cuts are no longer flying under the radar and are presenting diners with a whole new culinary experience.
Enjoy hearty, honest, soul food prepared with love by the owners of the Gabriëlskloof restaurant, Frans and Mariaan Groenewald. They are passionate about everything local and source most of their produce from neighbouring farms and villages. The menu changes regularly, and no, we don’t know precisely what’s going to be on it next month. But you will find good, no-fuss homemade food made from the freshest ingredients.
26 locals recommend
Gabrielskloof Wine Estate
R43
26 locals recommend
Enjoy hearty, honest, soul food prepared with love by the owners of the Gabriëlskloof restaurant, Frans and Mariaan Groenewald. They are passionate about everything local and source most of their produce from neighbouring farms and villages. The menu changes regularly, and no, we don’t know precisely what’s going to be on it next month. But you will find good, no-fuss homemade food made from the freshest ingredients.
This is where the heart and soul of Hermanus locals gather every Saturday morning. For hugs, great coffee, unforgettable brekkies, home bakes and the best of local craft in the Overberg. Local wines, handcrafted breads, delicious eats and treats. Come hungry and enjoy the love and laughter. With over 35 local crafters, you will always find something unique and special. WE LOVE WHAT WE DO!
76 locals recommend
Hermanus Country Market
Jose Burman Drive
76 locals recommend
This is where the heart and soul of Hermanus locals gather every Saturday morning. For hugs, great coffee, unforgettable brekkies, home bakes and the best of local craft in the Overberg. Local wines, handcrafted breads, delicious eats and treats. Come hungry and enjoy the love and laughter. With over 35 local crafters, you will always find something unique and special. WE LOVE WHAT WE DO!
The Tasting Room is a wonderful breakfast and lunch venue, popular with locals and visitors alike. A renovated original farm cottage is the setting for the charming tasting and bar area, with views over a dam to the Stanford valley beyond. The large outside seating area is covered and thus protected from the elements during winter. The drop down blinds and two fireplaces ensure that this venue is perfect for breakfast or lunch all year round. The Tasting Room restaurant has a reputation for laid back fun, with the emphasis on fresh and inventive food of an exceptionally high standard. The chalkboard menu changes daily and always offers an interesting variety of options.
24 locals recommend
The Tasting Room (Stanford Hills Estate)
24 locals recommend
The Tasting Room is a wonderful breakfast and lunch venue, popular with locals and visitors alike. A renovated original farm cottage is the setting for the charming tasting and bar area, with views over a dam to the Stanford valley beyond. The large outside seating area is covered and thus protected from the elements during winter. The drop down blinds and two fireplaces ensure that this venue is perfect for breakfast or lunch all year round. The Tasting Room restaurant has a reputation for laid back fun, with the emphasis on fresh and inventive food of an exceptionally high standard. The chalkboard menu changes daily and always offers an interesting variety of options.
Set on the beautiful shores of Onrus Beach, here at The Milkwood we have spectacular views with delicious food to match. Come and join us during the day for a yummy breakfast or scrumptious lunch, or sit at the bar enjoying some Tapas with a cocktail or local craft beer. In the evening our seasonal dinner menu and specially selected wine list will ensure you have a truly special experience with us.
67 locals recommend
The Milkwood Restaurant
1 Atlantic Dr
67 locals recommend
Set on the beautiful shores of Onrus Beach, here at The Milkwood we have spectacular views with delicious food to match. Come and join us during the day for a yummy breakfast or scrumptious lunch, or sit at the bar enjoying some Tapas with a cocktail or local craft beer. In the evening our seasonal dinner menu and specially selected wine list will ensure you have a truly special experience with us.
With spectacular views of mountains and vineyards leading down to the nearby Atlantic Ocean, The Restaurant at Newton Johnson is situated on our farm in the Upper Hemel-and-Aarde Valley just outside the seaside town of Hermanus. Using the bounty of ingredients found and grown right here on the farm. The Restaurant’s carefully formed team – led by chef Ricky Broekhoven & managed by Theo van Niekerk – creates a seasonally evolving menu that is inspired by the very specific terroir and wines of Newton Johnson. The delicate dishes are layered with flavour that are subtly complemented by our wines. Reservations are required for a table, but walk -ins are always welcome if we have space available.
30 locals recommend
The Restaurant at Newton Johnson
Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
30 locals recommend
With spectacular views of mountains and vineyards leading down to the nearby Atlantic Ocean, The Restaurant at Newton Johnson is situated on our farm in the Upper Hemel-and-Aarde Valley just outside the seaside town of Hermanus. Using the bounty of ingredients found and grown right here on the farm. The Restaurant’s carefully formed team – led by chef Ricky Broekhoven & managed by Theo van Niekerk – creates a seasonally evolving menu that is inspired by the very specific terroir and wines of Newton Johnson. The delicate dishes are layered with flavour that are subtly complemented by our wines. Reservations are required for a table, but walk -ins are always welcome if we have space available.
Most people visiting The Burgundy Restaurant, on the very edge of the bay and only a few metres away from Hermanus’s historic old harbour, always come back. Once you visit, which we hope you will do soon, you might well return because here you will be greeted by not only the warm smiles of our staff, but also, quite possibly, the smell of artisanal bread baking. "The word “Hospitality” in the new testament comes from two Greek words. The first word means “Love” and the second word means “Strangers”. It’s a word that means Love of Strangers." - Nancy Leigh Demoss
94 locals recommend
Burgundy Restaurant
7 Harbour Rd
94 locals recommend
Most people visiting The Burgundy Restaurant, on the very edge of the bay and only a few metres away from Hermanus’s historic old harbour, always come back. Once you visit, which we hope you will do soon, you might well return because here you will be greeted by not only the warm smiles of our staff, but also, quite possibly, the smell of artisanal bread baking. "The word “Hospitality” in the new testament comes from two Greek words. The first word means “Love” and the second word means “Strangers”. It’s a word that means Love of Strangers." - Nancy Leigh Demoss
Created out of a traditional cave previously inhabited by a Koi Strandloper of the same name, the restaurant spills out onto the rocks of Walker Bay in Hermanus, where Whale Watching is the preferred local pass-time. The rustic charm and natural ambiance of the cave and it's surroundings is a delight to all our patrons with many returning year after year to sample the delights of Bientang's Cave. With an abundance of sea and bird life as well as Dassies for company, this exquisite setting is heightened by the freshest seafood and an award winning wine list (Diners Club Diamond Award). And, should you be a non-seafood(ie), we offer meat, poultry and vegetarian dishes to satisfy any palate.
91 locals recommend
Bientang's Cave Restaurant & Wine Bar
91 locals recommend
Created out of a traditional cave previously inhabited by a Koi Strandloper of the same name, the restaurant spills out onto the rocks of Walker Bay in Hermanus, where Whale Watching is the preferred local pass-time. The rustic charm and natural ambiance of the cave and it's surroundings is a delight to all our patrons with many returning year after year to sample the delights of Bientang's Cave. With an abundance of sea and bird life as well as Dassies for company, this exquisite setting is heightened by the freshest seafood and an award winning wine list (Diners Club Diamond Award). And, should you be a non-seafood(ie), we offer meat, poultry and vegetarian dishes to satisfy any palate.
Located in the beautiful Hemel en Aarde Valley, our restaurant caters for everyone's palate. Enjoy a glass of one of our award-winning wines on our patio overlooking the vineyards while our expert chefs prepare your meal.
12 locals recommend
La Vierge Restaurant
12 locals recommend
Located in the beautiful Hemel en Aarde Valley, our restaurant caters for everyone's palate. Enjoy a glass of one of our award-winning wines on our patio overlooking the vineyards while our expert chefs prepare your meal.

Drinks & Nightlife

With close to 100 wines available to taste, savour and enjoy by the glass, by the bottle or simply in a tasting flight of six, wine from our region has never been easier to appreciate. We pride ourselves in representing a wonderful selection of wines from Botriver, Hemel & Aarde, Stanford, Elim and Agulhas. Join us at our beautiful location in the heart of the old town of Hermanus to enjoy a wide range of regional award-winning wines, bubbly and craft beers. Scrumptious plates of food are served from our kitchen where our chef has been inspired by local cuisine to take you on a gastronomic journey. Come and join us and try something a little different.
44 locals recommend
The Wine Glass Restaurant
2 Harbour Rd
44 locals recommend
With close to 100 wines available to taste, savour and enjoy by the glass, by the bottle or simply in a tasting flight of six, wine from our region has never been easier to appreciate. We pride ourselves in representing a wonderful selection of wines from Botriver, Hemel & Aarde, Stanford, Elim and Agulhas. Join us at our beautiful location in the heart of the old town of Hermanus to enjoy a wide range of regional award-winning wines, bubbly and craft beers. Scrumptious plates of food are served from our kitchen where our chef has been inspired by local cuisine to take you on a gastronomic journey. Come and join us and try something a little different.
The Gecko is the ultimate restaurant / bar where you can enjoy the most amazing wood-fired pizzas, sushi and other specialities while sitting beside the log fire or admiring the view over Walker Bay. Join us for sundowners, drinks, lunch, dinner, or a good fun night out with live music on Friday nights.
59 locals recommend
The Gecko Bar & Restaurant
59 locals recommend
The Gecko is the ultimate restaurant / bar where you can enjoy the most amazing wood-fired pizzas, sushi and other specialities while sitting beside the log fire or admiring the view over Walker Bay. Join us for sundowners, drinks, lunch, dinner, or a good fun night out with live music on Friday nights.

Entertainment & Activities

Ivanhoe Sea Safaris is regarded as one the leading boat-based whale watching companies in South Africa, we operate just a 2 hour drive from Cape Town near the whale capital of the world Hermanus and launch from the quaint fishing harbour of Gansbaai. Here you find the true gem of South Africa's whale watching off the cliff of De Kelders, as well as us the original pioneers of the industry in South Africa. We also boast one of the limited whale watching permits allocated country wide. We specialize in Boat Based Whale Watching and we pride ourselves in offering a uniquely personalized service to all our clients.
9 locals recommend
Ivanhoe Sea Safaris
3 Hawe Weg
9 locals recommend
Ivanhoe Sea Safaris is regarded as one the leading boat-based whale watching companies in South Africa, we operate just a 2 hour drive from Cape Town near the whale capital of the world Hermanus and launch from the quaint fishing harbour of Gansbaai. Here you find the true gem of South Africa's whale watching off the cliff of De Kelders, as well as us the original pioneers of the industry in South Africa. We also boast one of the limited whale watching permits allocated country wide. We specialize in Boat Based Whale Watching and we pride ourselves in offering a uniquely personalized service to all our clients.
Southern Right Charters, as a permitted operator offers boat-based whale and dolphin watching tours from the New Harbour in Hermanus. During the tour the friendly crew is on hand to make sure a great experience is had, from helping get the perfect photo opportunity, to serving complimentary light refreshments. The guide, will interpret the marine life encountered en-route and provide insight while the action is taking place.
32 locals recommend
Southern Right Charters
32 locals recommend
Southern Right Charters, as a permitted operator offers boat-based whale and dolphin watching tours from the New Harbour in Hermanus. During the tour the friendly crew is on hand to make sure a great experience is had, from helping get the perfect photo opportunity, to serving complimentary light refreshments. The guide, will interpret the marine life encountered en-route and provide insight while the action is taking place.
Welcome to Walker Bay Adventures in Hermanus. Since our inception in 1999 we have grown from offering kayaking trips on the Klein River Lagoon to offering sea kayaking trips from the Old Harbour. Not only do we own and operate these activities but we also promote and book a number of activities in the area as we believe in offering our clients all that Hermanus has on offer to ensure your time here is unforgettable.
23 locals recommend
Walker Bay Adventures
26 Marine Dr
23 locals recommend
Welcome to Walker Bay Adventures in Hermanus. Since our inception in 1999 we have grown from offering kayaking trips on the Klein River Lagoon to offering sea kayaking trips from the Old Harbour. Not only do we own and operate these activities but we also promote and book a number of activities in the area as we believe in offering our clients all that Hermanus has on offer to ensure your time here is unforgettable.
Davies pool is a natural rock pool situated in the Onrus Camping site. The pool is open to the public and offers swimmers a calm, safe swimming experience.
8 locals recommend
Davies pool
34 Krige St
8 locals recommend
Davies pool is a natural rock pool situated in the Onrus Camping site. The pool is open to the public and offers swimmers a calm, safe swimming experience.
Fick's Pool is a popular swimming spot among the local children, cradled between the rocks and overlooking the ocean.
48 locals recommend
Fick's Pool
8 Marine Dr
48 locals recommend
Fick's Pool is a popular swimming spot among the local children, cradled between the rocks and overlooking the ocean.
The Marine Tidal Pool is situated below the Marine Hotel in Central Hermanus next to Bientang's Cave Restaurant. Access is from the cliff path leading down to the pool via a set of steep steps and not recommended for people who have difficulty walking. It offers safe swimming for all but dive shoes/booties are recommended due to the sea urchins and sharp rocks. The pool offers good snorkelling at low tide and overlooks the ocean and surrounds. The Pool is also safer for children as it is separated from the crashing waves and is in full view of the hotel and roads.
Hermanus Tidal Pool
Marine Drive
The Marine Tidal Pool is situated below the Marine Hotel in Central Hermanus next to Bientang's Cave Restaurant. Access is from the cliff path leading down to the pool via a set of steep steps and not recommended for people who have difficulty walking. It offers safe swimming for all but dive shoes/booties are recommended due to the sea urchins and sharp rocks. The pool offers good snorkelling at low tide and overlooks the ocean and surrounds. The Pool is also safer for children as it is separated from the crashing waves and is in full view of the hotel and roads.
The Estate is home to one of the top ranked golf courses in South Africa, with pristine grass, tricky sand traps and challenging water hazards. Designed by Peter Matkovich, the golf course has been enjoyed by celebrities such as Samuel L. Jackson and professional golfers like Ernie Els and Gary Player. The fabled 18-hole, Par 72 Championship course has consistently been ranked in the top 10 courses in South Africa. The 8th hole has been described as one of the most beautiful par 5′s in South Africa and the 18th hole was rated one of the finest finishing holes in the country.
26 locals recommend
Arabella Country Estate
R44
26 locals recommend
The Estate is home to one of the top ranked golf courses in South Africa, with pristine grass, tricky sand traps and challenging water hazards. Designed by Peter Matkovich, the golf course has been enjoyed by celebrities such as Samuel L. Jackson and professional golfers like Ernie Els and Gary Player. The fabled 18-hole, Par 72 Championship course has consistently been ranked in the top 10 courses in South Africa. The 8th hole has been described as one of the most beautiful par 5′s in South Africa and the 18th hole was rated one of the finest finishing holes in the country.

Parks & Nature

Fernkloof Nature Reserve is a nature reserve in the Kleinrivier Mountains above Hermanus, Western Cape Province, South Africa. It is 1,800 hectares in area and its altitude ranges from sea level to 842 metres. The reserve harbours a great number of fynbos species.
200 locals recommend
Fernkloof Nature Reserve
200 locals recommend
Fernkloof Nature Reserve is a nature reserve in the Kleinrivier Mountains above Hermanus, Western Cape Province, South Africa. It is 1,800 hectares in area and its altitude ranges from sea level to 842 metres. The reserve harbours a great number of fynbos species.

Arts & Culture

A gallery specializing in fine art and craft. Studio for resident artist Ed Bredenkamp who is well known for his dramatic "Red Elephants". Locally crafted ceramics, glassware and jewellery. A wide range of colourful hand printed African fabrics individually produced in an adjacent studio. Visit our studio where you can watch the fabrics being printed and custom order your own fabrics by choosing from our library of designs.
7 locals recommend
LEMBU GALLERY
Harbour Road
7 locals recommend
A gallery specializing in fine art and craft. Studio for resident artist Ed Bredenkamp who is well known for his dramatic "Red Elephants". Locally crafted ceramics, glassware and jewellery. A wide range of colourful hand printed African fabrics individually produced in an adjacent studio. Visit our studio where you can watch the fabrics being printed and custom order your own fabrics by choosing from our library of designs.
What originally started out as a florist has flourished into a thriving flower, art and gift gallery that attracts many foreign and local tourists. Besides beautiful flowers and potted varietals like Orchids, Fleurs also retails unique gifts and original art as well as other decor items for the home. Louis passionately supports local and you will find numerous interesting ceramics, bags, jewels and other locally crafted bits & bobs. This store is a must for foreign visitors to Hermanus looking for bespoke, uniquely African object d'art such as animal skin rugs, handcrafted mobiles and jewellery <3
Fleurs
173 Main Rd
What originally started out as a florist has flourished into a thriving flower, art and gift gallery that attracts many foreign and local tourists. Besides beautiful flowers and potted varietals like Orchids, Fleurs also retails unique gifts and original art as well as other decor items for the home. Louis passionately supports local and you will find numerous interesting ceramics, bags, jewels and other locally crafted bits & bobs. This store is a must for foreign visitors to Hermanus looking for bespoke, uniquely African object d'art such as animal skin rugs, handcrafted mobiles and jewellery <3
Since it first opened in 2007, the gallery has created a niche market, dealing exclusively with works of great significance in terms of execution, condition, aesthetics and value. Many of the paintings are by artists that are highly sought after by fine art collectors. We have also developed a reputation for offering great value on our most collectible works. So whether you’re a serious art collector or just have a passion for beautiful art, please pop in and visit the gallery to view our wide selection of paintings, sculpture, ceramics and glassworks.
20 locals recommend
Walker Bay Art Gallery
167 Main Rd
20 locals recommend
Since it first opened in 2007, the gallery has created a niche market, dealing exclusively with works of great significance in terms of execution, condition, aesthetics and value. Many of the paintings are by artists that are highly sought after by fine art collectors. We have also developed a reputation for offering great value on our most collectible works. So whether you’re a serious art collector or just have a passion for beautiful art, please pop in and visit the gallery to view our wide selection of paintings, sculpture, ceramics and glassworks.

Shopping

87 locals recommend
Whale Coast Mall
87 locals recommend
Woolworths Station Square Hermanus
62 locals recommend
14 locals recommend
Village Square
Main Road
14 locals recommend
Artists and writers have been inspired by Hermanus for its ‘champagne air’, the serenity of the mountains and the tempestuous sea for almost a century – making this a hub for arts and culture. Many famous artists and writers hail from Hermanus, Onrus and Vermont and today the arts and culture scene is as strong as ever. There are 23 art galleries and studios exhibiting works of every genre and medium, from paintings to ceramics and weaving to delicate stoneware. Pick up an art route map at the Tourism Office in Hermanus to navigate your way to the galleries or studios of artists at work
Market Square Street
Market Square Street
Artists and writers have been inspired by Hermanus for its ‘champagne air’, the serenity of the mountains and the tempestuous sea for almost a century – making this a hub for arts and culture. Many famous artists and writers hail from Hermanus, Onrus and Vermont and today the arts and culture scene is as strong as ever. There are 23 art galleries and studios exhibiting works of every genre and medium, from paintings to ceramics and weaving to delicate stoneware. Pick up an art route map at the Tourism Office in Hermanus to navigate your way to the galleries or studios of artists at work

Sightseeing

This wide, seemingly-untouched beach in Hermanus is flanked by the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, creating a retreat that is as tranquil as it is exquisite. So, it is no wonder that Grotto Beach was awarded Blue Flag status in 2013; recognising its ecological value, beauty, safety and accessibility. Grotto Beach is safe for swimming, surfing, stand-up paddling, body-boarding, and hydrofoiling. The sand is inviting for those that want to enjoy playing beach games, building sand castles, or soaking up the rays while enjoying a good book. Stroll hand-in-hand down the long beach, or work up a sweat with a jog.
114 locals recommend
Grotto Beach (Blue Flag)
Grotto Street
114 locals recommend
This wide, seemingly-untouched beach in Hermanus is flanked by the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, creating a retreat that is as tranquil as it is exquisite. So, it is no wonder that Grotto Beach was awarded Blue Flag status in 2013; recognising its ecological value, beauty, safety and accessibility. Grotto Beach is safe for swimming, surfing, stand-up paddling, body-boarding, and hydrofoiling. The sand is inviting for those that want to enjoy playing beach games, building sand castles, or soaking up the rays while enjoying a good book. Stroll hand-in-hand down the long beach, or work up a sweat with a jog.
Voëlklip Beach is a favourite among surfers. Voëlklip Beach offers spacious green lawns leading down to the beach with a few rocky coves nearby for a more private beach experience; very popular during peak season and summer holidays. Refreshments are a few minutes’ walk away at a nearby Deli and coffee shop. Ablution facilities are basic yet sufficient. Parking is limited.
55 locals recommend
Voëlklip Beach
55 locals recommend
Voëlklip Beach is a favourite among surfers. Voëlklip Beach offers spacious green lawns leading down to the beach with a few rocky coves nearby for a more private beach experience; very popular during peak season and summer holidays. Refreshments are a few minutes’ walk away at a nearby Deli and coffee shop. Ablution facilities are basic yet sufficient. Parking is limited.
Onrus Beach is a lovely beach in the holiday town of Onrus, near Hermanus in the Western Cape. While lying in the warm white sand, beach-goers can enjoy marvellous views of the surrounding mountains and Atlantic Ocean. The beach is located next to a warm, calm lagoon, making it superb for family outings. The little ones can enjoy paddling in the safe waters of the lagoon, while older kids and adults can brave the chilly waters of the sea. The beach is also fantastic for surfing, sunbathing, and swimming. The Milkwood restaurant overlooks the beach and is a great spot for filling empty bellies and nursing cocktails as the sun sets. There are also toilets and plenty of parking.
35 locals recommend
Onrus Beach
93 Atlantic Dr
35 locals recommend
Onrus Beach is a lovely beach in the holiday town of Onrus, near Hermanus in the Western Cape. While lying in the warm white sand, beach-goers can enjoy marvellous views of the surrounding mountains and Atlantic Ocean. The beach is located next to a warm, calm lagoon, making it superb for family outings. The little ones can enjoy paddling in the safe waters of the lagoon, while older kids and adults can brave the chilly waters of the sea. The beach is also fantastic for surfing, sunbathing, and swimming. The Milkwood restaurant overlooks the beach and is a great spot for filling empty bellies and nursing cocktails as the sun sets. There are also toilets and plenty of parking.
Langbaai Beach is a more private beach, mainly used by locals situated between Kammabaai and Kwaai Water (Stormy Waters). Therefore parking is very limited and the beach more isolated. This is ideal for a quiet picnic or a romantic day on the beach as it also offers safe swimming at low tide, is clean and well kept and is very picturesque. However, no bathrooms are available. Langbaai is accessible at 6th Avenue Voelklip, steps have been cut into the rock to make it easier to access. Sit back and watch the crashing waves which force themselves into the narrow cove before splashing onto the beach.
14 locals recommend
Langbaai Beach
3rd Avenue
14 locals recommend
Langbaai Beach is a more private beach, mainly used by locals situated between Kammabaai and Kwaai Water (Stormy Waters). Therefore parking is very limited and the beach more isolated. This is ideal for a quiet picnic or a romantic day on the beach as it also offers safe swimming at low tide, is clean and well kept and is very picturesque. However, no bathrooms are available. Langbaai is accessible at 6th Avenue Voelklip, steps have been cut into the rock to make it easier to access. Sit back and watch the crashing waves which force themselves into the narrow cove before splashing onto the beach.
The cliff path at Hermanus is one of the town's most beautiful features. It meanders for 11 km along the rugged coastline, between the New Harbour to the west, and Piet-se-Bos, just beyond Grotto Beach, to the east. The entire strip of coast is protected within the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, proclaimed in 2000, in a bid to protect the fragile ecosystem alongside Walker Bay. It is on the Hermanus cliff path that some of the world's best land-based whale watching occurs (August/September). Set at regular intervals on rocks and cliffs that overlook the sea are a series of wooden benches for that very purpose
13 locals recommend
Cliff Path
Cliff Path
13 locals recommend
The cliff path at Hermanus is one of the town's most beautiful features. It meanders for 11 km along the rugged coastline, between the New Harbour to the west, and Piet-se-Bos, just beyond Grotto Beach, to the east. The entire strip of coast is protected within the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, proclaimed in 2000, in a bid to protect the fragile ecosystem alongside Walker Bay. It is on the Hermanus cliff path that some of the world's best land-based whale watching occurs (August/September). Set at regular intervals on rocks and cliffs that overlook the sea are a series of wooden benches for that very purpose