Situated in Walker Bay, near the southern part of Africa, Hermanus offers some of the best shore-based whale-watching opportunities in the world. Southern Right Whales are the stars of this incredible annual event, a must see for nature lovers.

During the festival the cliff tops around the bay are crammed with eager spectators. Right outside the town there are quieter spots, where waters are often calmer and the whales come close to shore. During the show the whales explode out of the water and smash back down in a mountain of spray. Hermanus has also its own whale-crier, a person who communicates with the mammals in Morse code.

In addition to the whales, the festival offers visitors a wealth of environmental activities. There's also a sports agenda; the highlight is The Whale Run Half Marathon.