Things to see and do in Hermanus

Here is a practical list of some of the best things to see and do in Hermanus, with contact details and links to more information to help you plan your visit.

  • In June, the Fyn Arts Festival is a celebration of creativity in all its forms – visual, musical, literary, culinary, and performance. The programme includes theatre, live music and every genre of art with exhibitions, talks, workshops, plus food and wine experiences. 084 600 7058 Facebook
  • Beaches in Hermanus
  • Visit the Markets 
  • Wine and Food Festival  at the Curro school. The Hermanus Wine & Food Festival offers an engaging blend of vibrant local flavours and the region’s celebrated wine culture. Set against a backdrop of sweeping sea views and rugged fynbos-covered hills, this festival invites visitors to explore a carefully curated selection of premium wines paired with gourmet dishes from frontline Cape chefs and local artisans. Usually held in late winter or early spring, 028 316 3988
  • The Sandbaai Craft Beer and Gin Festival is a celebration of artisanal beverages. This event brings together craft breweries, gin distilleries, and gourmet food vendors.
  • Throughout the year, the Hermanus Music Society hosts a series of concerts featuring talented local and international musicians. These events range from classical recitals to contemporary performances,
  • The Kleinmond Bike Track, built by the Kleinmond Cycle club is aimed at encouraging younger cyclists to take up the sport. Bicycle rentals for both young children and adults are available.  079 986 6525  admin@kleinmondcycling.co.za
  •  Overstrand Surf Festival celebrates this thriving surf culture. Usually held in summer, the festival features competitions for all skill levels, surf clinics, and beachside entertainment.
  • The Walker Bay Orchid Festival is held in September at St. Peter’s church hall
  •   www.hermanuswhalefestival.co.za
  • Flower festival at Fernkloof  maver@mweb.co.za
  • Shaw’s mountain pass
  • Kalfie fees at Onrus. The Afrikaans entertainment weekend is a festival for young and old. Drama, comedy, music, dance, children’s theatre, book reviews, art and lifestyle; something for everyone’s taste. The Kalfiefest allows artists across the country to come together and entertain audiences. navrae@kalfiefees.co.za
  • 5 km Parkrun, every Saturday at 8:00 am. – Hermanus Forest, Camphill Road, Hemel en Aarde Valley, Hermanus
  • Rotary way (short walk) is about 4 km from the town. At the entrance to Mt Pleasant, there is signage pointing to Rotary Way, from where you will have a spectacular view over Walker Bay
  • HOY’s koppie: A rocky outcrop in the middle of Hermanus where Sir William Hoy and his wife Gertrude are buried. A stairway leads to the summit, which provides panoramic views of the town.
  • Hermanus Historical Society.
  • Great surfing at Walker Bay
  • Hermanus municipal swimming pool is at 209 Malva Street, open daily from 8.00 to 17.00 in summer.
  • The Hermanus MTB Trail. Purchase a permit from Euodia Cycle 028 316 2119
  •  First Fridays is a monthly event in which all 22 galleries in the town remain open until 8.30 pm The Artwalk is part of a worldwide initiative designed to make art more accessible to everyone on the first Friday of every month. You can stroll through the village and enjoy a diverse range of art, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photography, and jewellery.
  • Art In The Park is open on the first Sunday of every month at the Country Market venue: Jose Burman Drive, Hermanus Cricket Club
  • Whale season in Hermanus is between June and December. Read about whales and dolphins here
  • The Whale Crier walks through the streets blowing codes on his kelp horn to tell people where whales have been seen. Each note of the kelp horn calls communicates specific information, from the type of whales spotted to their behaviour. The key to the code is on the sandwich board he wears from 10 am to 4 pm every day in whale season.The Whale Crier
  • Zwelihle is a lively township on the outskirts of Hermanus,  home to about 22,000 people. Many residents work in the town’s tourism industry. The community has a rich cultural heritage, known for its traditional Xhosa cuisine, music, and dance. Visitors can explore Zwelihle on a walking tour to learn about its history and culture. The township is also home to the Masakhane Art Room, a community art centre showcasing local artists’ work.

Find a list of businesses in Hermanus, including places to eat, stay and some great activities for children.