Hermanus Travel Guide
Hermanus is one of our absolute favourite travel destinations as a family. This beautiful coastal town in the Western Cape of South Africa is packed with fantastic restaurants, fun activities and the most beautiful scenery.
This guide will be updated regularly as we explore more of what this town has to offer and find new gems to share with you.
Where to stay in Hermanus
We love using rentals (mostly through sites like AirBNB) but there are beautiful hotels in Hermanuse to stay at.
- One of our favorites is Suna’s Beautiful apartment right in the center of all the action. The apartment ie beautifully furnished, generously sized and the view is just unmatched. Perfect for up to 6 people.
- If you’re travelling in a larger group, I can highly recommend Misha’s beautiful beach Bungalow. We haven’t personally stayed there but the reviews alone will have you convinced. Misha has paid attention to all the finer details making her place a must-visit.
- If you’re looking for hotel accommodation, you can’t beat The Marine Hermanus. Definitely on the spendy side but this classic hotel with a view to-die-for ticks all the boxes.
Where to eat in Hermanus
Hermanus has a plethora of dining options, most quite casual. It’s also centrally located to visit a myriad of wine farms in the Hemel & Aarde Valley and Botrivier.
- Dutchie’s. This lovely Hermanus institution is located just off of Grotto Beach with a beautiful view and the most delicious Dutch Bitterballen and fantastic sushi. The service is friendly and efficient, making this a great place for a casual meal or sundowners with friends.
- Lina Pizzeria. This tiny, hole-in-the-wall in central Hermanus offers phenomenal Neopolitan-style pizza.
- Black Medicine. A trip to Hermanus is not complete without a visit to this small coffee shop/bakery. Their Marmite croissants, incredible doughnuts and cinnamon rolls are all absolutely delicious.
- Hussar Grill. We love a classic steakhouse and Hussar Grill never disappoints. Generous portions, reasonably priced and perfect for a family dinner out.
- Beaumont Wines. We had a wonderful lunch under the trees at Beaumont. Their menu is simple but well through-out and includes options for the entire family. The chocolate pudding in particular was exceptional. Be sure to visit their deli too for the most beautiful fresh produce, preserves and more.
- Milk on the beach. Situated in neighbouring Onrus, this little spot right on the beach offers good sushi, fish and chips and other simple fare.
What to do in Hermanus
There is no shortage of activities to enjoy in and around Hermanus. We were only there for a few days so didn’t get to explore as much as we wanted to, however, we are planning a trip soon to do some whale-watching and I will update this post with all the details then. Our favorite days were the ones spent meandering through Hermanus, popping into the little shops, grabbing coffee on the way and doing some serious people watching.
- Hemel & Aarde Valley. By far one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever visit. This picturesque valley is home to many phenomenal wine farms that all offer wine tastings. The perfect afternoon, if you ask me. Some of our favs are Ataraxia and Creation.
- Cliff Path. This path follows the Hermanus coastline and there is no better way to start your day than grabbing a coffee and taking a slow walk along the beautiful blue ocean.
- Voëlklip Beach/Grotto Beach. Hermanus has some of the best beaches in South Africa and when the weather is great, is a must-visit. Pack a picnic basket, grab your bathing suit and relax!
- Stony Point Penguin Colony: An adorable site, this penguin colony is a great attraction for the littles in your family. The drive there is also absolutely stunning.
- Franschoek: Another beautiful day trip, we love going to Franschoek when we’re in Hermanus. We went for lunch at the iconic La Motte wine farm but there are so many restaurants in this beautiful little town, you will be spoiled for choice.
- Stanford: Just outside Hermanus is the lovely town of Stanford. A must-stop is Klein River cheese where you can buy some of the most delicious Gruyere-style cheese crafted in South Africa.
