Winter on South Africa’s coastlines brings drama—not just in the skies, but beneath the surface too. Between June and November, the country’s southern and eastern shores host the magnificent southern right whales as they migrate from Antarctica to breed and calve in warmer waters.
If you’ve ever wanted to watch a whale breach against a golden sunrise or spot a calf nuzzle alongside its mother in the shallows, this is your trail to follow.
1. Hermanus, Western Cape
Southern Right Whale near Hermanus/Olga Ernst/Wikimedia Commons
Few places are as synonymous with whale watching as Hermanus. With a dedicated Whale Crier alerting visitors to sightings and a Cliff Path that snakes along the coast, this is one of the best land-based whale-watching spots on Earth. Southern right whales linger in the bay for months, offering consistent sightings from Grotto Beach to the New Harbour.
Don’t miss:
2. De Hoop Nature Reserve
Whale Trail, De Hoop Nature Reserve/flowcomms/Wikimedia Commons
Tucked away between Bredasdorp and Swellendam, De Hoop is a coastal sanctuary where whales frolic just metres from the shoreline. The dunes at Koppie Alleen offer natural grandstands for observing mother-calf pairs rolling in the surf, without another human in sight.
Stay: Eco cottages, campsites, and romantic lodges are all available inside the reserve.
Bonus: The coastal fynbos and rare birdlife (including Cape vultures) make this a dream for nature lovers.
3. Walker Bay (Gansbaai & Pearly Beach)
Southern right whale breaching at Walker Bay/Olga Ernst/Wikimedia Commons
South of Hermanus, Gansbaai and Pearly Beach offer less commercialised, equally rewarding whale sightings. Pearly Beach, in particular, is known for calm, shallow waters where whales come in close to rest or breach.
While you’re there:
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4. Stilbaai, Western Cape
Stilbaai image used for illustrative purposes only/Ppotgiet/Wikimedia Commons
Stilbaai’s curved bay and river mouth make it an ideal winter stop for families or travellers seeking peace. Whale sightings are common from the beach, and the small-town hospitality is hard to beat.
Pair it with:
5. Mossel Bay to Wilderness, Garden Route
Starboard visited Mossel Bay in 2022 and was tracked around the coast. This image was taken at The Point/EstherJacobs1/Wikimedia Commons
The Garden Route isn’t just for forests and lagoons—its coastlines are also frequented by migrating whales. Mossel Bay’s Point area is a great lookout spot, while Wilderness Beach offers open sands and a chance to see a tail lift dramatically over the surf.
Top trail: St Blaize Hiking Trail, which hugs the cliffs for 13,5km (6-hour hike) with frequent lookout points.
6. Cape Agulhas
Image used for illustrative purposes only/Sebastian Wohlrapp/Unsplash
The southernmost tip of Africa offers more than bragging rights—it’s also a quiet, less-developed stretch where whales often cruise by the shore. The towns of L’Agulhas and Struisbaai offer a raw, windswept charm that pairs well with wildlife watching.
Local gem: The historic Cape Agulhas lighthouse, with views over the ocean and surrounding fynbos
7. Algoa Bay, Eastern Cape
Image used for illustrative purposes: Cape Recife, the western end of Algoa Bay/Rainer Halama/Wikimedia Commons
This bay, near Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), is unique for the variety of whale species that pass through. While southern rights are seen in winter, humpbacks, Bryde’s whales, and even orcas may also make an appearance. Boat trips here give you a shot at multiple species in a single morning.
Also in the area:
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The Addo Elephant National Park marine section includes St Croix Island, a breeding spot for African penguins.
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Dolphin pods often accompany the boats—bring your camera!
Whale watching 101: Tips for first-timers
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Best time to go: June to October
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How to spot them: Look for V-shaped blows, flukes (tails), or breaching behaviour
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What to bring: Binoculars, windproof jacket, camera with zoom lens, patience
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How to be respectful: Maintain a safe distance (300m from boats or shore), keep noise to a minimum, and never try to attract the animals
Whale watching in South Africa is more than a bucket list experience—it’s a humbling reminder of the planet’s wonder. Whether you’re peering through binoculars from a dune in De Hoop or sipping coffee along Hermanus’s cliffs, the Whale Watcher’s Trail invites you to witness a season of gentle giants and powerful grace.
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