Return of the Gentle Giants

Whale-Watching in False Bay

Southern Right Whales visit their breeding grounds across the Southernmost reaches of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans every year. Here in the sheltered bays of the Cape coast, they gather to mate and give birth. They feel safe here where they can feed, rest and play. Fish Hoek welcomes the whales in winter through to spring.

Weighing in at about 60 tons and estimated to live as long as 100 years, these majestic creatures spend up to five months a year here.  They spend their days playing, courting, and nursing their newborn calves, often just metres from the shore, providing spectacular land-based viewing.

Southern Rights are willing performers for onlookers, often breaching several times in succession to hit the water with an unrivalled cannon-blast sound.

The Southern Right whale is easily distinguished from other species by the callosities on its head, a broad back without a dorsal fin, and a long, arching mouth that begins above the eye. Its skin is very dark grey or black, occasionally with some white patches on the belly.

There are a few great whale-watching spots near the city of Cape Town. Opt for the higher vantage points along the False Bay coastline, such as Cape Point, Boyes Drive between St James and Kalk Bay, and Clarence Drive between Gordon’s Bay and Rooi Els. During the whale-watching season, you might even be lucky enough to spot them close up if you take the train trip from Muizenberg to Simon’s Town.

Fish Hoek locals watch the whales from Jager's Walk, the beautiful catwalk along the rocks beside the beach. Some people walk along the pavement to Glencairn to the popular Whale Viewing Site to catch a few photographs and selfies. The biggest thrill lately is to view the Orcas sprinting across the bay!

If you want to get up close to these graceful marine beauties, the Simon’s Town Boat Company offers boat-based whale-watching in False Bay. The whale tours depart daily from Simon’s Town in season if the weather is good. Booking is advised. 

Come to Fish Hoek and stay at Seaside Cottages - there is SO MUCH to do!