When the current breaks, a black whale emerges from the water and twists to show off its stomach, peppered with white dots, only to glide back into the bay. In the charming fishing village of Hermanus, this is a luxury locals and travelers have the pleasure of viewing each year. As one of the best whale-watching spots in the world, Hermanus, South Africa is home to one of the most beloved eco-tourism events. The Hermanus Whale Festival occurs annually, from late September to October, when the Southern Right Whales return to the warmer waters of Walker Bay after spending months in the arctic sea. As the whales make their new home just feet away from the shore, festival guests gasp at the surreal sight in front of them. Most have never been this close to a whale before, and this breath-taking view brings back an almost child-like excitement. By sitting on a picnic blanket on the cliffside beach or taking a boat out to the bay for a closer look, festival goers get a show they will certainly never forget.

As the only eco-marine festival in South Africa, The Hermanus Whale Festival attracts global visitors with a desire to see these beautiful creatures in person, all the while learning more about conserving the ocean. This beachfront town is settled between luscious mountains and the ocean, with popular vineyards and resorts just ninety minutes from Cape Town. With a perfect view of the Southern Right Whales, travelers can watch from beachside restaurants as the whales break through the currents and slap their tails against the sea. Featuring a parade and street venders where guests learn about the history and sustainable customs of this quaint fishing town, Hermanus, South Africa is an essential destination in South African travel, as it is a cultural experience as well as an environmental one. 

The first Hermanus Whale Festival was in 1992, inspired by the story of Wendy the Whale. In the 1930s, a Southern Right Whale was beached on the coast of Hermanus, causing the community to come together and push her back into the water. Years later, Wendy returned to the coast, and the people of the town celebrated together. This story is the inspiration behind the festival, reminding people that they can live in harmony with nature, and that the environment should be celebrated. Conserving the ocean and protecting wildlife are focuses of the Hermanus Whale Festival, making it the ideal location for eco-tourism.