Start Your Day Right: 5 Hermanus Stays with Award-Winning Breakfast Menus

Start Your Day Right: 5 Hermanus Stays with Award-Winning Breakfast Menus

There is a specific kind of magic that belongs to a Hermanus morning. It begins with the crisp, salty air of Walker Bay, the distant sound of crashing waves, and the anticipation of a day spent exploring one of South Africa’s most beautiful coastal gems. But for the discerning traveler, the perfect day doesn’t truly begin until the first cup of artisanal coffee is poured and a gourmet breakfast is served.

Hermanus has evolved far beyond its roots as a quiet fishing village into a premier culinary destination. When searching for the best breakfast Hermanus guesthouses, travelers aren't just looking for a meal; they are looking for an experience that blends local flavors with world-class hospitality.

Whether you are planning to hike the Fernkloof Nature Reserve or spend the morning whale watching from the cliffs, these five guesthouses ensure you start your journey on a delicious note.

1. Whale Away Guest House: The Café Culture Experience

For those who love the vibrant energy of a local bistro, Whale Away Guest House offers a unique approach to the morning meal. Instead of a traditional dining hall, guests enjoy their breakfast at one of Hermanus' most popular nearby cafés. This allows you to soak in the local atmosphere and enjoy expertly prepared dishes in the heart of the town.

Located just 200 meters from the famous Cliff Path, this five-room sanctuary is ideal for couples seeking a sophisticated, child-free environment. After a morning of Eggs Benedict and fresh juice, you are perfectly positioned to explore the niche stores and art galleries of Hermanus Central.

2. Auberge Burgundy Guest House: A Taste of Provence

Set above the picturesque Old Harbour, Auberge Burgundy feels like a slice of the French countryside transported to the African coast. This Provencal-style guest house features fragrant courtyards and stone terraces that provide a serene setting for a morning feast.

The breakfast here is legendary, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients that reflect the rich agricultural heritage of the Overberg region. Being centrally located, you are just steps away from the craft markets and the salty sea air of Walker Bay.

3. Hermanus Beachfront Lodge: Breakfast with a View of the Surf

If you believe that breakfast is best served with a side of Vitamin Sea, Hermanus Beachfront Lodge is your destination. As one of the only lodges located directly on the popular Voëlklip Beach, the morning experience here is defined by the sound of the surf.

Each morning, guests gather in the breakfast lounge to be greeted by magnificent ocean views. It’s the perfect vantage point to spot Southern Right Whales (in season) while enjoying a hearty meal. The lodge’s proximity to the beach makes it a favorite for surfers and sunbathers who want to hit the water immediately after their final sip of coffee.

4. 138 Marine Guesthouse: Coastal Elegance and Panoramic Vistas

138 Marine Guesthouse is synonymous with luxury. The breakfast experience here is elevated by the spacious terrace that offers panoramic views of both the ocean and the mountains. There is something truly special about enjoying a gourmet meal while watching the waves break just meters away.

The hospitality is personalized, and the attention to detail in their breakfast presentation has earned them a stellar reputation among regular visitors. If you're lucky, you might even spot a whale from the comfort of the breakfast deck.

5. Walker Bay Manor: International Hospitality at Its Finest

At Walker Bay Manor, you get the best of both worlds: warm South African hospitality combined with European flair. This charming manor house offers rooms that face the sea, the mountains, or the lush garden and swimming pool.

Their breakfast menu is designed to fuel you for a day of adventure. Situated directly opposite the whale walk cliff path and just around the corner from the Hermanus Golf Club, it is the ideal base for active travelers. The manor’s multilingual staff (speaking English, Dutch, German, and Belgian) ensures a welcoming environment for international guests.

  • Highlight: A diverse breakfast menu served in a manor house with mountain and sea views.
  • Best For: International travelers and golf enthusiasts.
  • Book your stay at Walker Bay Manor

Planning Your Hermanus Escape

Hermanus is more than just a seasonal whale-watching spot; it is a year-round sanctuary for foodies and nature lovers alike. To make the most of your trip, consider visiting the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley for wine tastings after your morning meal, or take a slow walk along the 12km Cliff Path to work off that extra croissant.

Ready to breathe in the fresh sea air? Book cheap flights to Cape Town and take the scenic 90-minute drive along the whale coast to reach your dream breakfast destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which guesthouses in Hermanus have the best ocean views for breakfast?

Hermanus Beachfront Lodge and 138 Marine Guesthouse both offer exceptional, direct ocean views from their breakfast areas, making them top choices for those who want to see the sea while they eat.

Are there breakfast options for people with dietary restrictions?

Most high-end guesthouses in Hermanus, including those listed above, are very accommodating to dietary needs such as gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian diets. It is always recommended to inform the property 24 hours in advance.

What time is breakfast typically served in Hermanus?

Most guesthouses serve breakfast between 08:00 and 10:30, allowing guests to sleep in or enjoy an early morning walk on the beach before dining.

Can I eat breakfast at these guesthouses if I am not a guest?

Generally, the breakfast services at these boutique guesthouses are reserved for overnight guests to maintain an intimate atmosphere. However, Whale Away Guest House partners with local cafés that are open to the public.