OVERSTRAND
CAPE WHALE COAST
HANGKLIP-KLEINMOND | HERMANUS | STANFORD | GANSBAAI
DISCOVER THE CAPE WHALE COAST
Clarence Drive – Most Scenic Route
Experience extraordinary natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and endless outdoor adventures. As one of the world’ s best whale-watching destinations, the region welcomes Southern Right Whales from June to November as they migrate to these coastal waters to mate and calve. Welcomed by the famous Hermanus Whale Crier blowing his kelp horn to announce their presence in Walker Bay, their arrival is celebrated with a range of activities and events that showcase the beauty, culture, and hospitality of the surrounding towns.
Hangklip-Kleinmond is an eco-tourism paradise accessed via the world-famous Clarence Drive scenic route. Nestled within the UNESCO Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, this area allows you to visit the wild horses at Rooisand, see the iconic African Penguin colony at Stony Point, explore the Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens, or unwind with a stroll down Kleinmond’ s vibrant Harbour Road.
Hermanus, known as the heart of the Cape Whale Coast, offers visitors breathtaking ocean views, Blue Flag beaches, fynbos gardens, and scenic hiking trails. The town is well known for its welcoming cafés, art galleries, museums, and vibrant markets. Food and wine lovers can explore the famous Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Route, where modern and traditional cuisine is served at award-winning estates. Visitors can stroll along the iconic Cliff Path while keeping watch for whales and even enjoy a fascinating science experience by exploring the model solar system displayed along the walkway. Hermanus also offers sunset cruises, deep sea fishing, golf courses, hiking trails and ziplining making it a destination suited to every kind of traveller.
Nearby, the coastal town of Gansbaai offers its own brand of excitement, world-renowned for thrilling shark cage diving experiences and its vibrant Saturday country markets. Beyond the adrenaline, nature lovers can immerse themselves in a wealth of coastal adventures, from birdwatching and scenic horse trails to eco-boat cruises that explore the rich marine life of the area.
When travelling through the region, be sure to visit Stanford, known for its boutique wine route and breathtaking aerial whale-watching flights. Visitors can also explore the villages scenic walking path, enjoy family picnics at local breweries, and hike through the beautiful Phillipskop Mountain Reserve to discover ancient Khoi San rock art hidden within its caves.