Clifftop views. Coastal elegance. And a front-row seat to the whales.
Curated by Jenny’s Travel
Location: Hermanus, Western Cape
Perfect for: Romantic getaways, whale season escapes, mother-daughter weekends, stylish solo retreats
Style: Timeless luxury with coastal grace
The Backstory: The Hotel That Started a Love Affair
There’s something about Hermanus that pulls you in. Maybe it’s the smell of salt in the air, the slow mornings, or the way the waves break just below the cliffs. For us, the first time we stayed at The Marine, we arrived for a quick overnight and ended up wishing we’d booked a week.
It’s not just the views (though they’re spectacular). It’s the way the hotel feels — elegant, old-world, yet completely relaxed like a seaside sanctuary with white linens, silver teapots, and just enough sea breeze to reset your soul.
The Setting: The Edge of the World (With Excellent Service)
Perched right on the cliffs above Walker Bay, The Marine has some of the best whale-watching views in the world — and you don’t even have to leave your room.
From June to November, Southern Right whales swim just metres from shore, breaching and tail-slapping in full view of your balcony or breakfast table.
But it’s not just about whales. The hotel is just a short walk from the shops, restaurants and cliff paths of Hermanus — so you get that perfect mix of coastal quiet and small-town charm.
The Rooms: Calm, Classic, and Made to Unwind
Each of the 40 rooms and suites is individually decorated in soft, coastal colours. You’ll find fresh flowers, plush bedding, underfloor heating for cooler months, and those big windows that make the most of the view.
We especially love the Premier Suites, which open right onto the ocean — you can watch whales from the bath!
Included in your stay:
- Daily breakfast (which you’ll want to linger over)
- Homemade treats in your room
- Use of the heated saltwater pool and spa facilities
- Thoughtful turndowns and that special touch of Relais & Châteaux hospitality
The Experience: Do as Much or as Little as You Like
The Marine is the kind of place where the pace is yours to set.
You can:
- Walk the scenic cliff path at sunrise
- Go on a whale-watching boat trip (seasonal)
- Stroll into town for art galleries and wine tastings
- Treat yourself to a marine-inspired spa treatment
- Sip wine on the terrace as the sun dips below the bay
Or… do absolutely nothing. Just sit on your balcony, breathe in the sea air, and let the waves do what they do best.
Dining: Local Flavours With an Ocean View
- Pavilion Restaurant is elegant but relaxed, serving fresh local ingredients, seasonal vegetables, and of course, seafood — often with a creative twist.
- Afternoon teas are a quiet little event — think scones, teas, cakes and bubbles, best enjoyed outside.
- Wine pairings are thoughtfully curated, and the staff are happy to recommend something local and special.
Jenny’s Tip: If oysters are on the menu — say yes. Paired with an MCC and that view? Perfection.
What We Love
- Whale season magic (you feel it here)
- Spa treatments that smell like the ocean
- Beautiful interiors — classic but fresh
- Ideal add-on to a Winelands or Garden Route trip
- Feels romantic, but also great for mother–daughter or bestie getaways
Why Book with Jenny’s Travel?
Because we’ll help you plan more than just the stay, whether you want a private transfer from Cape Town, a surprise spa booking, a cliff path picnic, or a full Western Cape itinerary with the Winelands and the Overberg — we’re here to make it seamless and special.
📧 Email us: holidays@jennystravel.co.za
📞 Call us: +27 12 347 8891
Final Word
The Marine is one of those hotels that doesn’t try to be trendy — and that’s exactly why it’s so timeless. With its white-gloved service, clifftop elegance, and quiet luxury, it’s the kind of place you’ll dream about long after the whales have moved on.
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