Westcliff, Hermanus Information
Westcliff is one of the coastal neighbourhoods of Hermanus in the Overberg, stretching along the western side of the town and overlooking Walker Bay. It is particularly appealing for visitors who want easy access to Hermanus’s famous coastline, whale watching and outdoor attractions while staying close to the town centre.
The area is best known for its spectacular sea views and the Hermanus Cliff Path, which follows the shoreline for several kilometres. The path passes through Westcliff and provides one of the best ways to experience the rugged coast, with benches and viewpoints where visitors can pause to watch the waves, seabirds and, during the whale season, southern right whales. From roughly June to November, whales regularly enter Walker Bay to calve and mate, making the coastline a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.
One of Westcliff's notable attractions is the New Harbour, where fishing and boat activities provide a reminder of Hermanus's longstanding connection with the sea. Visitors can see fishing boats and, depending on arrangements and weather conditions, join boat-based marine wildlife or whale-watching excursions.
The area is also close to Gearing's Point, another well-known viewpoint, as well as the Old Harbour & Museum and Hermanus's central attractions. Walking between these locations is an enjoyable way to appreciate the coastline and the town's historic character.
Westcliff's history is closely linked to the development of Hermanus from a small fishing and farming settlement into a popular seaside resort. Fishing was particularly important to the early community, while the town's reputation for excellent land-based whale watching eventually became one of its defining features.
Today, activities in and around Westcliff include coastal walking, whale watching, photography, birdwatching, fishing and boat trips. The neighbourhood also provides convenient access to the restaurants, galleries, shops and markets of central Hermanus. For visitors, its greatest attraction is arguably the combination of dramatic coastal scenery and easy access to some of the best whale-watching viewpoints along Walker Bay.
Westcliff, a charming suburb of Hermanus within the Overberg/Whale Coast region, offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors.
Suggestions for things to see or do in or near Westcliff:
1. Cliff Path Walk: The Cliff Path in Hermanus is one of the most famous attractions, providing stunning views of the rugged coastline and the chance to spot southern right whales during the whale season (June to December). The path stretches for about 12 kilometers, offering various points of interest along the way, including lookout points, benches, and informative plaques about the local flora and fauna.
2. Old Harbour & Museum: Located in the heart of Hermanus, near Westcliff, the Old Harbour & Museum showcases the rich maritime history of the area. The museum features exhibits on the fishing industry, marine life, and the history of Hermanus. The old fishing harbor itself is a historical site, providing a glimpse into the town’s past.
3. Fernkloof Nature Reserve: Just a short drive from Westcliff, the Fernkloof Nature Reserve offers an array of hiking trails through diverse fynbos vegetation. The reserve covers about 1,800 hectares and is home to over 1,470 plant species. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, with breathtaking views of the mountains and the ocean.
4. Hermanus Country Market: This vibrant market, open on Saturdays, is located near the cricket field in Hermanus, close to Westcliff. It offers a range of local produce, artisanal foods, crafts, and live music. It’s a great place to experience the local culture, taste delicious food, and purchase unique handmade items.
5. Hermanus Whale Museum: The Hermanus Whale Museum, located in the town center, provides fascinating insights into the whales that visit the region. The museum features informative displays about the southern right whales, their biology, migration patterns, and the history of whale watching in Hermanus. Interactive exhibits and a life-size skeleton of a whale make it an educational and engaging visit for all ages.
Nearby Towns
- ▸ Northcliff, Hermanus (1km)
- ▸ Zwelihle (1.5km)
- ▸ Hermanus (1.6km)
- ▸ Hermanus Area (1.6km)
- ▸ Eastcliff, Hermanus (1.8km)
- ▸ Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (2.9km)
- ▸ Sandbaai (3.1km)
- ▸ Hermanus Heights (3.2km)
- ▸ Fernkloof Estate (3.5km)
- ▸ Kwaaiwater (3.9km)
- ▸ Onrus (5km)
- ▸ Voelklip (5km)
- ▸ Maanskyn Baai (6.6km)
- ▸ Vermont (6.8km)
- ▸ Hawston (9.6km)