Garden Route, South Africa
Spot the whales: 5 must-visit locations on the Garden Route
Where to spot the majestic whales along the Garden Route
Every year, the waters along South Africa’s Garden Route coastline become a stage for migrating whales, with visitors from around the world hoping to catch sight of these majestic giants. Southern Right whales, Humpback whales and Bryde’s whales are among the stars of this seasonal show that happens all along this stunning coastline. From Hermanus, where a whale’s tail might flick just meters from the shore, to the quiet sands of Witsand, where mothers and calves rest, the Garden Route promises a whale watching adventure you won’t forget. Join us as we explore the top whale-watching destinations and the incredible experiences they offer.
Table of Contents
What is whale watching and why is the Garden Route famous for it?
Whale watching, similar to bird watching, is an activity that involves observing whales in their natural habitat. An activity that’s not just loads of fun but also great for learning about marine conservation. Garden Route, a stunning slice of South Africa’s coastline, is a hotspot for whale watching, thanks to its unique geography and diverse marine life.
Every year, incredible species like the Southern Right whale, Humpback whale and Bryde’s whale make their way through these waters. The Southern Right whales are particularly fascinating as they seek out the Garden Route’s sheltered bays to breed and nurse their calves. This migration offers prime opportunities for up-close encounters, making the Garden Route an absolute must-visit if you are intrigued by these majestic giants or any marine life.
When is the best time to go whale watching on the Garden Route?
The peak whale watching season runs from June to November. Southern Right whales begin arriving in June, with numbers increasing steadily through July and August. By mid-season (September and October), activity peaks, offering the best chance to observe behaviours like breaching, tail-slapping and mother-calf interactions.
By November, the migration slows, but if you are visiting during the late-season you can still catch glimpses of whales before they leave for their feeding grounds in Antarctic waters. Early season sightings may also include other marine life like dolphins, so keep that in mind if you are visiting the Garden Route for more than just the whales!
Where are the best whale watching spots along the Garden Route?
Hermanus
When it comes to whale watching, Hermanus is simply unrivalled. Dubbed by many as the whale-watching capital of the world, this charming town offers prime viewing spots along its rugged cliffs. From June to November, the Southern Right whales come tantalising close to these shores.
The Cliff Path, an 11-kilometre trail along the coastline, provides numerous lookout points. The Old Harbour and Gearings Point are also popular spots for sightings. Local operators like Southern Right Charters offer boat tours from the harbour if you are looking to enter the waters to get a closer look at these giants.
Don’t miss the annual Whale Festival, taking place in September, a celebration that combines conservation efforts with fun-filled events and activities.
Witsand
Witsand might be a bit off the beaten path, but it’s a hidden gem for those in the know. Situated where the Breede River meets the ocean, Witsand, known as the whale nursery of South Africa, is where Southern Right whales come to calve.
The town’s main beach, accessible from various vantage points, offers close-up views of these marine beauties. Whale Tail Viewpoint is another excellent spot to try and catch a glimpse of the passing whales.
De Hoop Nature Reserve
For those seeking a more natural and rugged experience, De Hoop Nature Reserve is a must-visit. This pristine reserve boasts an incredible coastline where Southern Right whales can often be seen frolicking near the shore. The Koppie Alleen dunes are an iconic viewing spot, offering panoramic views of the ocean.
If you want to make an adventure out of your whale watching, put aside a few days and do the Whale Trail hike. The hiking route stretches over 55 kilometres, from Potberg to Koppie Alleen, with five overnight stops and many whales spotted along the way!
Knysna
Knysna is home to majestic giants both on land and in the ocean. This small coastal town might be famous for its lagoon and fascinating history involving elephants, but this town is also a prime location to spot whales.
Head to Brenton-on-Sea or Buffalo Bay for excellent land-based whale watching. Knysna’s operators, such as Ocean Odyssey, offer marine tours that combine whale watching with dolphin sightings and scenic explorations of the coastline.
Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay or Plett as it’s affectionately known, is a hotspot for marine life. Along with the beautiful beaches, the bay provides fantastic opportunities to spot Bryde’s whales, Humpback whales and occasionally, the orca. Robberg Nature Reserve offers a variety of walking routes with viewpoints that are hotspots for whale viewing.
We highly recommend doing a whale watching tour, local operators like Ocean Blue Adventures offer a variety of both boat and kayak activities if you want to get a closer look at these incredible creatures.
What types of whale watching experiences are available?
Boat tours
Boat-based whale watching provides up-close encounters with these marine giants. Well-known operators that offer these tours include Ocean Blue Adventures in Plettenberg Bay and Southern Right Charters in Hermanus. Trips often include commentary from marine guides and the chance to see other marine animals like dolphins.
Kayaking
If you’re seeking adventure, guided kayaking tours offer a more intimate and exciting experience. These tours are available in calmer bays like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, though they depend on favourable weather conditions!
Land-based viewing
The Garden Route’s extensive coastline is perfect for land-based whale watching. Viewpoints like Gearings Point in Hermanus and Koppie Alleen in De Hoop Nature Reserve provide spectacular views without the need for a boat.
What other marine life can you spot during a whale watching trip?
Whale watching trips along the Garden Route often include sightings of other fascinating marine species. Dolphins, such as Bottlenose and Common Dolphins, are frequent companions on boat tours. Seals are often spotted basking on rocky outcrops, while seabirds like gannets and cormorants dive dramatically into the water for fish. If you like exploring tide pools or estuaries, smaller marine life like starfish, sea urchins and crabs will make an appearance. With so much to see, a whale watching trip on the Garden Route becomes a must!
Share this
Book your stay
Stay in the know
Sign up for the latest hotspot news from Southern Africa.
Advertisement
African tastemakers