The Top 16 Tours & Things To Do In Hermanus

Hermanus is known worldwide as a premier whale watching destination, thanks to its dramatic coastline and close proximity to whale hotspots. But this charming seaside town offers much more than just observing these gentle giants. Whether you’re eager to see dolphins, explore marine life, indulge in local wine, or learn about its rich history, Hermanus packs a diverse lineup of activities.

We’re particularly fond of the whale-watching boat trips, which offer up-close encounters with humpbacks and southern rights, and the land-based options that let you enjoy whale sighting with fewer crowds.

And for the adventure-seekers, the shark cage diving provides a rare glimpse into the underwater world of great white sharks. With so many options, Hermanus is a must-visit for lovers of nature, good food, and spectacular scenery.

Quick Overview

Hermanus’s best tours range from on-the-water whale watching cruises (#1), to land-based whale walks (#3), and marine safaris (#4). For thrill-seekers, there’s shark cage diving (#8), as well as combo tours that combine sharks and whales (#7).

Foodies and wine lovers can join tastings and vineyard tours (#10), while history and culture buffs will enjoy walking tours (#12). Here’s a closer look at each experience.

1. Hermanus: Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Trip

Starting off the list, this whale and dolphin viewing cruise is a classic for good reason. At just $83 per person, it offers an educational, close-up experience with the ocean’s giants. The tour is led by a licensed whale watching operator who is also a whale expert, ensuring you get accurate insights during your trip.

The boat heads out into the waters off Hermanus, known as South Africa’s Whale Capital, during peak season (June through December).

Expect to see humpback whales and southern rights breaching and tail-slapping, while also observing dolphins, seals, and seabirds.

Guests often praise the personalized attention and the chance to learn directly from marine specialists. This trip is ideal for those who want a family-friendly, informative, and immersive experience.

Bottom Line: With a high rating of 4.7/5 from over 600 reviews, this tour balances value and quality perfectly for travelers eager to get up close and personal with whales.

2. Hermanus: Boat Based Whale Watching Experience

For around $88, the Boat Based Whale Watching Experience offers a slightly longer and more immersive trip. This tour emphasizes the natural habitat of whales, providing a more relaxed but still exciting opportunity to see these creatures in the wild.

Along with whales, you’ll encounter a variety of ocean life, including dolphins, seals, and seabirds, which makes this a well-rounded marine adventure. The boat departs from Hermanus, and guests regularly comment on the breathtaking views of the coastline from the water.

The reviews are strong (4.5/5 from 910 reviews), with many praising the professional crew and the chance to see whales breaching. If you’re after a nature-focused trip that maximizes your chances of whale sightings, this is a good pick.

Bottom Line: Slightly more costly than the first, but with larger reviews and a focus on the natural environment, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive marine experience.

3. Whale Watching Walking Tours (Land-Based) – from JUNE 2025

If you prefer to stay dry but still want close-up whale sightings, this land-based walking tour is an excellent alternative. At $57.51 per person, it’s remarkably affordable and offers a personalized, quieter experience.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll travel in a private vehicle to 5–7 vantage points along the coast, with opportunities to explore hidden coves and inlets where whales tend to gather. The tour also includes a visit to The Whale House Museum, adding educational value.

It’s a perfect choice for those wary of boats or with mobility concerns, as it involves a scenic 2 to 3-hour walk and some coastal driving.

The guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge shine through, with reviews singing its praises for informative and intimate whale watching.

Bottom Line: For a quiet, educational, and flexible whale-watching experience, this tour is hard to beat, especially with its excellent reviews and museum visit included.

4. Marine Big 5 Safari with transport from Hermanus

This marine safari is a full-on wildlife extravaganza for around $164.49. It’s unique because it combines the chance to see the Marine Big 5 — dolphins, penguins, seals, sharks, and whales — all on one trip. The two-hour boat cruise visits Dyer Island, home to endangered African penguins and a variety of seabirds. Guides include a marine biologist, who enriches the trip with fascinating insights.

This tour is ideal for marine life enthusiasts and those who want an all-in-one wildlife experience. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Hermanus, adding to its convenience.

Reviewers rave about the educational aspect and the diversity of animals seen, with a perfect 5-star rating from 64 reviews.

Bottom Line: If you want to see more than just whales and enjoy a comprehensive marine safari, this tour delivers a memorable day out.

5. Boat Based Whale Watching from Hermanus

This 2-hour boat tour for about $91.45 is designed for maximized whale sightings. The focus is on seeing whales in their natural habitat, with the benefit of a whale specialist guide. Past travelers mention constant activity — breaching whales, dolphins, and seals are common sights. The flexible timing and light refreshments make it suitable for anyone wanting a relaxed yet exciting trip.

Reviewers often highlight the enthusiasm and knowledge of guides and the close encounters with whales. It’s perfect for those with limited time but eager to see Southern Right whales, dolphins, and other marine animals.

Bottom Line: For travelers looking for a short, focused, and high-sighting chance whale tour, this option offers excellent value and a fun, educational experience.

6. Hermanus Land based Whale Tour with Dave de Beer

At $80.81, this personalized land-based tour is ideal for non-boaters. Led by local expert Dave de Beer, the tour involves walking along the cliff path, with secret whale spotting locations and in-depth insights into whale behavior.

The visit to The Whale House Museum enriches your understanding of Hermanus’s relationship with whales. The 2.5-hour trip appeals to travelers wanting a more relaxed pace and the chance to learn from a passionate guide.

Past reviews praise Dave’s knowledge and personable approach, making this a favorite for those seeking a personalized, educational experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and those who prefer land-based whale watching with a local guide.

7. Shark & Whale Trip Combo

This combo tour at $262 offers an adrenaline-pumping day in Gansbaai, combining shark cage diving with whale watching. Starting early, you’ll head out to Shark Alley to descend into the water and observe great white sharks up close.

Afterward, enjoy whale sightings and marine wildlife with guided commentary. The tour hits a wide range of marine life, making it ideal for thrill-seekers and marine enthusiasts.

Reviews highlight the excitement and the quality of the crew, with many noting the fantastic chance to see sharks and whales in one day. It’s a full-day, action-packed adventure for those who want more than just whales.

Bottom Line: For those wanting an all-out marine adventure with sharks and whales, this combo is unbeatable.

8. Shark Cage Diving and Viewing with transport from Hermanus

For about $234.50, this 6-hour tour provides an up-close encounter with great white sharks in Gansbaai. Departing from Hermanus, you’ll ride out to Shark Alley, descend into the cage, and learn shark identification and facts from a marine biologist. The tour includes breakfast, light refreshments, and hotel transfers.

It’s perfect for adventure travelers eager to experience the thrill of seeing sharks in their natural environment safely.

Past reviews mention the professional staff and the exhilaration of the cage dive. Be prepared for potentially rough seas—but few experiences compare to the adrenaline rush of facing a great white.

Bottom Line: Ideal for adventure lovers wanting a safe, guided, and intense shark experience.

9. Hermanus & Overberg Birding

Birders and nature lovers will appreciate this 3-hour tour led by a local expert with 20 years of experience. At $113.92, it covers seabirds, shorebirds, and mountain fynbos in the Overberg region, with plenty of photo opportunities.

The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge keep the trip engaging, and many guests return for a second tour. It’s perfect for those who want to see rare and endemic birds while soaking in the scenic landscapes of Hermanus.

Bottom Line: For birdwatchers eager to spot rare species and learn about local ecology, this tour is a birding enthusiast’s dream.

10. Vineyard Safari and Wine Tasting in Hermanus with Guide

For just $26, this short wine tour takes you across Benguela Cove’s ocean-facing vineyards. It offers a tasting experience with stunning views of the ocean and vines. The tour is perfect for wine lovers wanting a quick yet memorable experience.

Guests mention the fabulous wine and the scenic setting, making it a great addition to a day of exploring Hermanus. It’s a cost-effective way to get a taste of South Africa’s renowned wine culture without a full-day commitment.

Bottom Line: A brief but beautiful way to enjoy wine and scenery for travelers short on time.

11. Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Tour

This private wine tasting tour (from $133.89) takes you to four top wineries in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, including Bouchard Finlayson and Creation Wines. The flexible schedule allows you to sample wines, learn about winemaking, and enjoy delicious pairings.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and well-chosen wineries, making it a great way to combine wine tasting with scenic drives. Perfect for wine aficionados wanting a personalized experience.

Bottom Line: For connoisseurs seeking a customized private tasting, this tour hits the mark.

12. Hermanus Food and Culture Tour

This walking food tour offers a 3-hour journey through Hermanus’s culinary scene, visiting 6 local eateries. For $122.58, you’ll sample biltong, patisserie, locally made sorbet, and more, while learning about local history and food trends.

The guide’s passion and local knowledge shine, and many participants say it’s a delightful way to explore the town’s cultural character. It’s perfect for foodies wanting an authentic taste of Hermanus beyond the tourist spots.

Bottom Line: If you love food, culture, and walking, this tour offers an engaging and tasty experience.

13. From Cape Town: Full Day Hermanus Whale Watching Tour

For travelers based in Cape Town, this full-day trip (from $102) combines scenic coastal drives, whale watching, and wine tasting (#10), with opportunities to visit a penguin colony at Stony Point. The trip offers convenient transport and a comprehensive overview of Hermanus’s highlights.

However, the reviews are mixed (4.3/5), with some noting that the long day can be tiring but that overall it’s a good value for an introduction to the region.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full day of sightseeing and whale spotting without the hassle of planning.

14. Airport to Hermanus (Groups)

For a smooth transfer from Cape Town International Airport, this luxury vehicle service at $142.64 per group up to six people offers convenience and comfort. It’s a practical choice for travelers arriving or departing Hermanus who want reliable transportation without the hassle of renting a car or figuring out public transit.

Bottom Line: Best suited for groups or families looking for easy, pre-arranged transfers.

15. Hermanus: Whale Watching and Wine Testing

This combined tour, at $254 per group, blends whale watching with wine tasting at a nearby winery. While the reviews are mixed (3.6/5), it’s a great option if you want a multi-faceted experience in one day. The tour includes private transport and the chance to relax with a glass of wine after whale sightings, making it attractive for romantic couples or small groups.

Bottom Line: For those seeking a compact experience of marine life and local wine, this tour offers good value and convenience.

16. Hermanus Whale Watching Day Tour

Finally, for just $26, this budget-friendly option offers the chance to see whales in their natural environment. With little else included, it’s suited for budget travelers or short-term visitors looking for a basic, no-frills whale sighting.

Bottom Line: If you’re after affordable whale watching without extra bells and whistles, this options is straightforward and reliable.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting among Hermanus’s many tours, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For spectacular marine encounters, the Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Trip (#1) offers a personalized and educational experience. If you prefer more active exploration without the boat, the land-based whale walk (#3) is a great choice.

For adventure seekers, the shark cage dives (#8) and marine safaris (#4) provide unforgettable thrills. And if your passion is wine, the vineyard tours (#10) and private tastings (#11) are not to be missed.

Booking early is advisable during peak season (June to December), especially for popular activities like whale watching and shark cage diving.

Final Thoughts

Hermanus’s range of tours offers something for every traveler—from spectacular boat trips to educational land-based walks, and adrenaline-filled shark dives. Whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or friends, the options are plentiful and well-reviewed. For a balanced experience, combining a whale cruise with a wine tour can make for a memorable day.

For those craving adventure, the shark cage dive promises an experience unlike any other. Whichever you choose, book early, and enjoy the best of Hermanus’s marine and cultural offerings.

Happy whale watching, shark diving, and wine tasting in Hermanus — a South African coastal jewel with plenty to explore.