Accommodation in Hermanus

Shut eye in whale country made easy

Hermanus is so action packed you’ll be tempted to stay for more than just a day trip. Whether you’re after a quiet guest house by the beach, a vibey backpackers or a spot of camping beneath the milkwood trees, there are plenty of places to rest your weary head.

Whale Coast Hotel
Quite possibly the only place in the whole of Hermanus that can sleep a family of six under one roof for less than R3000, the Whale Coast Hotel offers spacious, central self-catering accommodation for the entire clan (or just those who want to spread out). The contemporary two- or three-bedroom flats welcome kids of all ages all year long, and because the suites are as cavernous as the belly of Jonah’s whale, the sounds of little ones stay within the individual units.
The most unique thing about the establishment: Each unit comes equipped with a spacious balcony and an outdoor wood-fire or gas braai (barbeque).
Top tip: If not in the mood to cook your own breakfast in the suite’s state-of-the-art kitchen, then ask about renting the flats on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
Cnr Lord Roberts & Royal roads | Hermanus | +27 (0) 28 312 3096

Hermanus Beach Villa
Perched just above Hermanus’s famed 12-km cliff path in the peaceful suburb of Voëlklip, this luxury three-storey guest house offers four-star comfort and sweeping views of the sparkling ocean, winding coastline and pristine swimming beaches at a surprisingly affordable price. Needless to say, it is prime whale-viewing territory in season and a particularly romantic spot to rest the head. Eight of the nine well-appointed rooms, one of which is a sumptuous honeymoon suite perfect for couples, boast private balconies that gaze out at the sea, and all are home to feather-soft king-size beds, spacious en-suite bathrooms and an assortment of convenient facilities – think heated towel rails, block-out curtains and more – that make for an especially memorable overnight. A tasty hot and cold breakfast is served daily in the elegant downstairs dining room, which opens out onto a small manicured garden.
The most unique thing about the establishment: Guests can watch the gentle giants of the Atlantic breach and blow from their beds.
Top tip: the standard double rooms can be converted into two-bedroom units for groups of four or larger suites for duos wanting more space.
151 11th Street | Voëlklip | Hermanus | +27 (0) 28 314 1298

Kennedy’s Beach Villa
Bordering Onrus lagoon and beach, a fishing village five minutes away from the centre of Hermanus, this five-star accommodation is less a place to overnight and more a piece of paradise. There are just two places to stay in this charming guest house: The Beach Suite, which has its own deck overlooking Onrus Beach, or in the Lagoon Villa, which is hidden deep in a Milkwood grove.
The most unique thing about the establishment: You can relax in an outdoor milk bath within an actual Milkwood grove.
Top tip: Make use of the close proximity of the beach: it is only a four minute walk from the villa.
5 Disa Street | Onrus River Beach | Hermanus | + 27 (0) 28 316 2169

Hermanuspietersfontein Cottages
The cluster of cottages on this award-winning winery’s vineyard property provides the perfect answer to the call for retreat, rest and relaxation. Kleinboet, Bloos and Swartskaap – the names of the three self-catering cottages – are hidden away from the push and pull of city life in the bossom of farmland that unravels between the quaint Overberg town of Stanford and the agricultural community of Napier (about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Cape Town).
The most unique thing about the establishment: There is no electricity or cell phone reception, just you and your thoughts…
Top tip: Try some of the farm’s delicious wines.
Stanford | near Hermanus | + 27 (0) 72 257 2718

Aloe Guest House
Just a seven-minute walk from the Hermanus centre and oceanfront, this four-star bed and breakfast conveniently stretches out alongside the former fishing village’s Main Road. The three standard suites boast sumptuous beds, arcing ceilings and sliding French doors that open onto an indoor alcove with another sleeper couch, and the family suite (sleeps eight) flaunts ample living space, two large bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a private courtyard area.
The most unique thing about the establishment: The owner, John Terras, used to be a professional goalkeeper for the Moroka Swallows.
Top tip: Ask John about the special rate for CapeTownMagazine.com readers! Also, if coming for the two-week Hermanus Whale Festival (end of September/beginning of October), be sure to book well in advance. 
53 Main Road | Hermanus | +27 (0) 28 313 1191

The Marine Hermanus
The 5 star Relais & Chateaux Hotel is perched atop cliffs and boasts 42 luxury rooms. Sip fabulous cocktails at The Sun Lounge and Bar, then feast on fresh fish from Walker Bay at Seafood at the Marine or buy gifts and curios at the Collection Boutique.
The most unique thing about the establishment: witness Southern Right whales frolicking in Walker Bay, without having to leave your bed.
Top tip: revive your skin, purify your body, relax your mind and uplift your spirit at the Charchele Beauty Spa.
Marine Drive | Hermanus | Overberg | Western Cape | +27 (0)28 313 1000

Onrus Caravan Park
Onrus Caravan Park is situated right on the coast and stretches from Haarderbaai to Vermont. Protected from the sea breeze by milkwood trees and dense bushes, there are well-kept grounds and facilities to ensure this campsite’s popularity.
The most unique thing about the establishment: “you can go swimming in a lagoon, which forms part of the Onrus River,” says owner, Rhyn Potgieder.
Top tip: enjoy the beaches, tidal pools and lagoons.
De Villiers Street | Hermanus | Overberg | Western Cape | +27 (0)28 316 1704

Baleens
Offering a quiet respite by the beach in Voëlklip, romantic walks to the beautiful Blue Flag Grotto Beach are made easy. This casual guest house is surrounded by the Hermanus lagoon and the majestic Klein River Mountains. No traffic, no noise – just the sound of the ocean and the haunting calls of waterfowl.
The most unique thing about this establishment: “we’re larger than most B&B’s, yet we offer very good rates,” says owner, Paula Swarbreck.
Top tip: spot whales from the balcony.
310 10th Street | Hermanus | Overberg | Western Cape | +27 (0)28 314 0006

Hermanus Backpackers
This centrally located backpackers offers cosy duvets and linen; in fact, just about everything you need. Relax in the video lounge or in the courtyard garden, jump in the pool or enjoy a good ol’ South African braai.
The most unique thing about the establishment: “a combination of young, friendly staff, a good vibe, location and activities make Hermanus Backpackers a happy place to stay,” says owner Braam van der Walt.
Top tip: bring a sense of humour.
26 Flower Street | Hermanus | Overberg | Western Cape | +27 (0)28 312 4293

Nelshof Luxury Blue Beach House
Located directly above Voëlklip beach, with direct access to the famous Hermanus cliff paths, is a beautiful old family home, built in 1921. Original wooden floors and furnishings lead to sea facing balconies and a heated Jacuzzi, on a wooden deck overlooking the sea at this self catering beach house.
The most unique thing about the establishment: an ideal wedding location that offers: décor, catering, flowers and photography.
Top tip: Bring your swimming costume, rain or shine.
37 – 10th Street | Voëlklip | Hermanus | Overberg | Western Cape | +27 (0)82 665 9113

---

Read our overview of Hermanus, things to do and whale watching.

Sunsets, fairy lights and fires at Dutchies beach restaurant in Hermanus.

---

Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.