EXPLORE HERMANUS
A sanctuary of natural beauty and world-class wines
Nestled between majestic mountains and the azure expanse of Walker Bay, the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley is a destination of breathtaking beauty and refined indulgence. Renowned for its exceptional cool-climate wines, this idyllic region is home to some of South Africa’s most distinguished vineyards, where passionate vintners craft elegant vintages that captivate the senses.
Just beyond the valley, Hermanus offers an awe-inspiring spectacle—the annual migration of the Southern Right whale. From the pristine shores of this coastal haven, witness these gentle giants as they return to calve and nurse in the tranquil waters of Walker Bay.
A visit to the Walker Bay Wine Region is more than a journey—it’s an immersion into nature’s grandeur and the artistry of fine winemaking, as this extraordinary destination promises an experience unlike any other.
Explore the Beaches
1. Breakfast Bay – A secluded sanctuary
A true hidden gem, Breakfast Bay is a tranquil retreat nestled in Vermont, just beyond the Onrus River. Favoured by locals for early-morning picnics and leisurely snorkelling, this serene cove offers untouched beauty and a sense of quiet escape.
2. Onrus Beach – Where Adventure and Relaxation Meet
Perfect for families, Onrus Beach offers something for everyone. While little ones enjoy the gentle shallows, thrill-seekers can take on the rolling surf. The nearby lagoon, with its warmer, calmer waters, provides a safe haven for wading and play.
3. Sandbaai Main Beach – A coastal haven
A paradise for families, Sandbaai Beach is ideal for sun-drenched picnics, sandcastle building, and shoreline strolls. While the cool Atlantic waves invite refreshing swims, the scattered kelp beds and rocky patches add a touch of adventure to the experience.
4. Voelklip Beach – A surfers paradise
A favourite among surfers, Voëlklip Beach offers a lively coastal atmosphere with rolling waves and sun-soaked lawns leading down to the shore. Intimate rocky alcoves provide a more private retreat, while nearby cafés offer the perfect post-surf refreshment.
5. Langbaai – Secluded and serene.
Tucked between rocky outcrops, Langbaai Beach is a well-kept secret offering seclusion and natural beauty. Small and pristine, it’s a haven for swimming, surfing, and those seeking a quieter connection with the ocean.
6. Kammabaai – The perfect family cove
Also known as “Lover’s Cove”, Kammabaai is a beloved family destination with gentle waters, excellent surf conditions, and shaded picnic and braai areas. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with ample space for beachside gatherings.
7. Grotto Beach – An Infinite Stretch of Coastal Splendour
A Blue Flag beach, Grotto Beach is the crown jewel of Hermanus’ coastline. With its vast golden sands stretching toward the horizon and dramatic mountain backdrops, it’s ideal for long walks, sunbathing, swimming, and beachside games. Ample parking and excellent amenities make it a perfect all-day destination.
Explore the Restaurants
Origins at The Marine
At Origins, the focus is on fresh, locally sources food made simply. Watch our highly trained chefs at work in the open kitchen or enjoy the view of the rolling waves. Come in for tapas, craft beer or a multi-course fine dining experience, you can find it at Origins.
Opens:
Monday – Sunday: 12pm – 2.30pm; 6pm – 9.30pm
Contact:
028 313 1000, gm@themarine.co.za
Address:
The Marine Hotel, Marine Drive, Hermanus, Western Cape
Fisherman’s Cottage
Housed in an 1800 century converted fisherman’s cottage, the restaurant (aptly named Fisherman’s Cottage) was opened in 1991 and has been serving a rich variety of seafood since then. Locals and visitors alike enjoy their seafood and delicacies from the blackboard menu inside the cosy cottage or outside on the deck.
Opens:
Tuesday – Saturday: 6pm – 9pm; Friday & Saturday: 12pm – 3pm
Contact:
028 312 3642, bookings@fishermanscottage.co.za
Address:
3A Harbour Road, Hermanus, Western Cape
Lizette’s Kitchen
Offering the rare combination of excellent food, a generous and wide-ranging drinks list, as well as entertainment for kids outside below the terrace, Lizette’s Kitchen is popular with families, visitors, parties and more. In summer, you can enjoy a drink outside on the wraparound stoep or on the wide deck, and in winter enjoy a cosy meal by the fireplace.
Opens:
Monday – Thursday: 9am – 10pm
Friday – Saturday: 9am – 10pm
Sunday: 9am – 9pm
Contact:
028 314 0308, lizettesfom@gmail.com
Address:
20 on 8th Street, Voelklip, Hermanus, Western Cape
Fabio’s Ristorante
One of just 25 South African Italian restaurants accredited by the Italian Chamber of Commerce, Fabio’s Ristorante is dedicated to real Italian cuisine. Enjoy an authentic meal in the cosy restaurant and pick up imported Italian delicacies from their deli to recreate your own masterpieces at home. Fabio’s also have a great range of local and Italian wines to complement their delicious dishes.
Opens:
Monday – Sunday, 11am – 10pm
Contact:
028 313 0532, info@fabios.co.za
Address:
60 St Peters Lane, Hermanus, Western Cape
Burgundy Seafront Restaurant
In a historic building overlooking the old Hermanus Harbour lies Burgundy. A Hermanus landmark, the oldest building in town, as well as a National Monument, the restaurant was opened in its current iteration by local wine family, the Hamilton Russels. The food is a delicious cross section of seafood and other culianry delights and the wine list a virtual walk through the Cape winelands, both local and further afield.
Opens:
Monday – Sunday, 8am – 9pm
Contact:
028 312 2800, info@burgundyrestaurant.co.za
Address:
7 Harbour Road, Hermanus, Western Cape
Rossi’s Italian Restaurant
If you’re looking for tasty, housemade food in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, Rossi’s is a great stop. A Hermanus institution, they’ve been running since 1985 serving up traditional Italian food to locals and visitors alike.
Opens:
Sunday – Thursday: 11am – 9.30 pm
Friday & Saturday: 11am – 10pm
Contact:
028 312 2848, info@rossis.co.za
Address:
10 High Street, Hermanus, Western Cape
Paradiso Restaurant
This Italian-South African eatery is in the centre of bustling Hermanus with a welcoming ambience and a great vibe. Serving bright, fresh and seasonal food, their wide open deck is the ideal spot to while away summer evenings.
Opens:
Monday – Friday: 10am – 9pm
Saturday & Sunday: 10.30am – 9pm
Contact:
028 313 1153, paradiso@liebritz.com
Address:
83 Marine Drive, Hermanus, Western Cape
Pear Tree Bistro
Overlooking the old Hermanus Harbour is a piazza where the Pear Tree Bistro finds its home. Producing creative and tasteful dishes in this beautiful location, Pear Tree offers a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere to enjoy your meal.
Opens:
Monday – Sunday, 11.30am – 10pm
Contact:
028 313 1224, info@pear-tree.co.za
Address:
2 Godfrey Cottages, Village Square, 81 Marine Drive, Hermanus, Western Cape
Harbour Rock
A little way out of Hermanus town centre, overlooking the working fishing and whalewatching harbour, lies the Harbour Rock. A Hermanus institution, it was established in 1997 and has been serving up consistently great food since then. The menu focusses on top quality seafood and was one of the first restaurants in Hermanus to serve sushi. Choose from the extensive seafood menu or indulge in one of their meatier dishes. There truly is something for everyone.
Opens:
Lunch: Monday – Sunday, 11.30am – 4pm
Dinner: Monday – Sunday, 6pm – 10pm
Contact:
028 312 2920, harbourrock@hermanus.co.za
Address:
Suite 24A, New Harbour, Hermanus, Western Cape
Groves Café
In the friendly atmosphere at Groves Cafeé, you can enjoy your flat white and a view of the whales in the bay. The fresh, delicious menu has something for everyone from breakfast through to a late lunch. Oh, and remember to take a look at the cakes and scones, they are not to be missed!
Opens:
Monday – Sunday: 8am – 5pm
Contact:
028 312 4277, info@fusionrestaurant.co.za
Address:
5 Village Square, Marine Drive, Hermanus, Western Cape
La Pentola
La Pentola overlooks the grand expanse of Walker Bay through their panoramic windows. This South African culinary leader – originally started in Johannesburg in 1995 and now in Hermanus – is known for their fresh seafood, prime cuts and exotic game.
Opens:
Monday – Sunday, 11am – 10pm
Contact:
028 313 1685, lapentolahermanus@telkomsa.net
Address:
Shop 4, Ocean View, 87 Marine Drive, Hermanus, Western Cape
The Classroom Restaurant
The Classroom, home to graduate chefs from the local Warwick Chefs School, lies in the beautiful Hemel-en-Aarde Village just outside Hermanus. The perfect venue for a wedding, birthday or other celebration, their weekly Sunday Lunch is also a more casual way to enjoy their delicious food.
Opens:
Sunday, 12pm – 3pm
Contact:
028 316 3582, warwicks@hermanus.co.za
Address:
Hemel-en-Aarde Village, Sandbaai, Hermanus, Western Cape
The Milkwood Restaurant
Hidden in the milkwoods that line Onrus Beach and Lagoon, lies the neighbourhood gem that is The Milkwood. Separated into The Restaurant and The Beach Hut, you can enjoy a refined and delicious plate of food overlooking the lagoon, or a casual (but just as tasty) bite downstairs in the Beach Bar. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and the wine list is a succinct walk through the local wine region.
Opens:
Monday – Sunday: 8am – 10pm
Contact:
028 316 1516, info@themilkwood.co.za
Address:
Atlantic Drive, Onrus Beach, Hermanus, Western Cape
VISIT OUR WINERY
R43, Hemel-en-Aarde Road,
Hermanus, South Africa
CONTACT US
+27(0)28 050 1301
experience@whalehaven.co.za
OPENING TIMES
Mon - Fri 9:30 - 17:00
Sat - Sun 10:30 - 16:30