Seaside towns you must visit in South Africa

Hermanus is renowned worldwide as the best place for land-based whale watching. From June to November, Southern Right whales come to the shallow waters of Walker Bay to mate and give birth. Watching them is always a special experience, and I never get tired of it. Besides whale watching, Hermanus has a stylish coastal feel, with great art galleries and seafood restaurants.

Time Out Tip: Walk the Cliff Path, a 12km trail offering spectacular viewpoints of the whales just meters from the shore.

Paternoster is one of South Africa’s oldest fishing villages, known for its white-washed stone cottages and clear turquoise waters. Not long ago, it became a popular spot for tourists, and it’s easy to see why. It feels like a piece of the Mediterranean on the rugged West Coast. The atmosphere is quiet, artistic, and very peaceful, making it great for romantic trips and those who love a "Greek Isle" look. 

Time out Tip: Enjoy a gourmet meal at Wolfgat, which has been named one of the best restaurants in the world, or buy fresh "kreef" (crayfish) directly from local fishermen.

Nestled between lush forests and a massive saltwater lagoon, Knysna is often called the "jewel" of the Garden Route. It is famous for the Knysna Heads, two massive sandstone cliffs that guard the entrance to the lagoon. Knysna is vibrant, adventurous, and naturally stunning, making it one of my favourite stops along the Garden Route.

Time Out Tip: Take a ferry across the lagoon to the Featherbed Nature Reserve or sample the famous Knysna Oysters at the Waterfront. Better still, time your visit to coincide with the annual Knysna Oyster Festival to enjoy all the festivities.

Often called "J-Bay", this town is a top spot for surfers. It has Supertubes, one of the world’s best right-hand point breaks. Jeffreys Bay is also known for its clean beaches and natural beauty, as well as its many beautiful seashells, which you can see at the Jeffreys Bay Shell Museum. The town has a relaxed, youthful feel, but it’s also a popular place for South Africans to retire.

Time Out Tip: Even if you don't surf, visit the beach during the J-Bay Open (usually July) to see the world's best athletes tackle the waves.

St. Lucia is a unique town where the wildlife is just as famous as the waves. Located within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site), it’s not uncommon to see hippos wandering through the town's streets at night. The vibe in St. Lucia is wild, tropical, and adventurous, as the town is renowned for its wildlife and eco-tourism. Consequently, many of the activities are designed to appreciate the natural beauty of this region. Think boat safaris, game drives, stunning beaches, hiking trails, and diverse ecosystems.

Time Out Tip: Take a sunset estuary cruise to see hippos and crocodiles, or drive to Cape Vidal for snorkelling in warm, tropical waters.

Once voted one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods, Kalk Bay is a lively fishing village on the False Bay coast, where a working harbour sits comfortably alongside trendy boutiques and cafés. The vibe is bohemian, colourful, and constantly buzzing, with cobbled streets and romantic alleyways lined with antique shops, art galleries, cosy cafés, and intimate restaurants. It’s a place where locals stroll with their dogs, and visitors linger over good food and cold drinks.

Time Out Tip: Eat fresh fish and chips at Kalky’s right on the harbour wall while seals play in the water nearby.

If you want to explore somewhere less travelled, Coffee Bay shows off the wild beauty of the Eastern Cape. Cows sunbathe on the beaches, which I always love to see, and traditional Xhosa huts are scattered across the green hills. Coffee Bay is perfect for visitors who want unspoiled scenery and a real cultural experience, thanks to its rustic, off-the-grid feel and stunning views.

Time Out Tip: Hike to the Hole in the Wall, a massive detached cliff with a giant opening carved out by the pounding surf.

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