The Whale Coast is a rugged stretch of South African coastline, snaking along the Atlantic Ocean and encompassing the towns of Kleinmond, Hermanus, Stanford, and Gansbaai. The route is backed by fynbos-covered mountains and includes farms, rivers, caves, and valleys. Between June and October, and especially over August, September, and October, the humpback or southern right whales that come here to mate and give birth can be seen frolicking offshore. The Whale Festival, held annually in September in Hermanus, is a special event featuring live music, markets, and much more. Throughout the year, explore the historic villages, and enjoy bird watching, wine tasting, paragliding, fat bike rides, river rafting, game viewing, mountain biking, and golfing. Don’t miss a visit to the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary in Gansbaai.