Description
The best area to spot whales in Cape Town is on the warmer False Bay side. Peak season is from mid-August to mid-October when the Southern Right whales migrate to our “warmer” waters. Arm yourself with binoculars and drive to one of the mountainside vantage points. Wind-free days make sightings a lot easier.
There's an outstanding vantage point on Boyes Drive winding along the mountainside between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay. For beach goers and walkers Fish Hoek can be an excellent place. Walk from the restaurant area along Jager's Walk beach path towards Glencairn. Southern Right Whales occasionally loll about particularly close to the boulders. You may even be rewarded with a soaking from one of their blows. Alternately, park at the Clovelly side and walk along the road towards Kalk Bay if the whales are wallowing in that part of the bay.
The coastal road between Fish Hoek and Simon's Town has some good spots. Even more spectacular mountainside vantage points can be found along the route from Boulders to Smitswinkelbaai. A great place in Cape Point is the dramatic cliff viewpoint above Rooikrans. Keep your eyes open driving between Scarborough and Kommetjie, particularly around Misty Cliffs and above Slangkop Lighthouse. Chapman's Peak has awesome views of the ocean and entire Hout Bay area although you will need a powerful pair of binoculars. There are also a couple of worthwhile spots along the road between Llandudno and Bakoven.
Phone the seasonal Whale Watch Hotline for a 24 hour update on precise sightings - 083 910 1028. The Muizenberg branch of Cape Town Tourism also provides updates on whale sightings from Muizenberg Bay to Fish Hoek - 021 7879140. For those wanting a more intrepid experience, try one of the boat based whale watching trips operating from Simon's Town, Hout Bay and the Waterfront. Commercial sea kayaking trips also operate from Simon's Town and are highly recommended. One can see plentiful penguins, seals and whales in season. Another fantastic way to spot whales is by doing a scenic helicopter flip around the peninsula.
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