Originally established as a farming community by Hermaus Pieters, the town became fashionable holiday and retirement destination due to the sunny climate and attractive location. Fisherman and sailors also found a relatively easy life, while visitors frequented the Windsor, Astoria and other august hotels. Today the town’s grandeur is a little faded, but it still has plenty to offer most tourists.

The focal point of the town is the Old Harbour Museum, which traces the history of the town’s whaling days, and contains a whale skull and old weapons. Fishermen’s boats dating from 1850 to the mid-1900s lie restored and hull-up on the old ramp. On the higher rocks are bokkom stands, racks on which fish are hung to dry in the sun.

Hermanus has a beautiful coastline. Unspoilt beaches such as Die Plaat, a 12-kilometer stretch from Klein River Lagoon to De Kelders, are perfect for walks and horse-riding. A cliff-top route extends from New Harbour to Grotto Beach; the regularly placed benches allow walkers to rest and enjoy the superb views.