Every year between June and November, the Western Cape becomes the stage for one of nature’s most captivating spectacles: whale season. From the cliff paths of Hermanus to the southern tip of Agulhas and the scenic shores of Plettenberg Bay, Southern Right and Humpback Whales arrive, delighting both locals and visitors with playful breaches and majestic spouts.
Hermanus is world-renowned as one of the best land-based whale-watching destinations. Here, Southern Right Whales glide tantalizingly close to shore—especially from August to October. The nearby Hemel‑en‑Aarde Valley adds another layer of magic, with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay expressing the region’s vibrancy and cool-climate elegance.
Whalehaven Winery sits at the very entrance to the valley and takes its name from the bay that shelters these whales during winter. It specializes in site-specific Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that mirror the grace of the whales themselves.
Creation Wines embraces its marine heritage with its Whale POD range — including both Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay — inspired by the playful Southern Right Whales that frequent Walker Bay.
Nearby, Southern Right Estate takes its name quite literally — their wines are named for the whales that swim just a few kilometres from their vineyards, and they even contribute to whale conservation efforts with each bottle sold
At Africa’s southernmost point lies Agulhas—a quieter stop on the whale trail. From June to October, Humpbacks roll past as part of their epic migration. The Agulhas Wine Triangle reflects this wild coastal energy with expressive Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah, showcasing the region’s maritime terroir.
Strandveld Vineyards, positioned between Elim and Cape Agulhas, is South Africa’s southernmost winery. Its windswept setting and wild, ocean-influenced vineyards harmonize beautifully with the passing giants.
Along the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay offers a cheerful length of whale watching with holiday vibes. From September to November, Southern Right, Humpback, and even Bryde’s Whales pass through this bay. The young but innovative Plettenberg Bay Winelands are becoming known for Cap Classique — sparkling wines built on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, perfect for holiday toasts.
Plan Your Visit
- Where to watch whales: Head to the cliffs of Hermanus (Don’t miss the Whale House at the Old Harbour Museum), stroll the wild shoreline of Agulhas, or relax on Lookout Beach in Plettenberg Bay.
- Add a winery stop: Pair whale sightings with wine tasting along each route—from Whalehaven’s elegant Pinot Noir in Hermanus to the bold coastal styles of Agulhas and sparkling Cap Classique in Plettenberg.
- Stay wild, stay respectful: Always enjoy marine wildlife responsibly—keep a respectful distance and follow local viewing guidelines.
More to Discover: Wildlife & Adventure Along the Routes
As you sip your way through these scenic wine trails, be inspired to explore beyond the vineyards:
- Tracing the coast, you can fat‑bike the towering dunes of Walker Bay Nature Reserve—descending 4–5 km through fynbos to reach the cliffs overlooking the sea. Nearby, the Duiwelsgat Trail leads hikers past Klipgat Cave, revealing dramatic rock landscapes and ancient Middle Stone Age heritage.
- Beyond the famous cliff paths for whale-watching, Hermanus offers more for wildlife and nature fans. You can explore the ancient Milkwood forests and fynbos-covered landscapes at Grootbos Nature Reserve or hit the hiking trails and bird‑watching routes around Fernkloof and Stony Point—home to blue cranes, coastal birds, and rich fynbos biodiversity.
- Alongside Plett Cap Classique and wine tasting, nature enthusiasts can visit Monkeyland, where free-roaming primates live in restored forest, or wander through Birds of Eden, the world’s largest free-flight aviary. Robberg Nature Reserve is another gem—its beaches and trails are ideal for seal spotting, while viewpoints and historic sites such as Nelson Bay Cave anchor the region’s ecological and archaeological richness.
Whale season is more than a spectacle—it’s an invitation to connect with South Africa’s coastal landscapes, wine regions, and stories. Each sip you take is layered with the richness of place, the pulse of the ocean, and the spirit of discovery.
Plan your next trip around whale season—where the call of the whales meets the clink of glasses.
