Grotto Beach

Grotto Beach (Blue Flag)


Image: Grotto Beach, view from the ocean with Grotto Beach and the mountains

Grotto Beach Address:

Grotto Street, Hermanus

Directions to Grotto Beach in Hermanus: 

Grotto Beach stretches for over 2kms from Voelklip to the mouth of the Klein River Lagoon and is the starting point of the 18-kilometre-long stretch of coastline that joins Hermanus with Gansbaai.
 

Average Ocean Temperatures at Grotto Beach:

  • Spring - 17°C/63°F
  • Summer - 15°C/59°F
  • Autumn - 16°C/61°F
  • Winter - 19°C/66°F

Grotto Beach is Best for:

  • Sunbathing
  • Swimming (ocean and lagoon)
  • Surfing
  • Skimboarding
  • Wind-Surfing
  • Beach Games
  • Picnics
  • Braaing
  • Hiking
  • Fishing
  • Bird Watching
  • Whale Watching (June to December)

Amenities at Grotto Beach:

  • Lifeguards (peak summer season)
  • Umbrellas and Deckchairs (peak summer season)
  • Restaurant
  • Lawn Area
  • Kiddies Play Area
  • Braai Area
  • Toilets
  • Showers
  • Parking

Grotto Beach Overview:

Grotto Beach in Hermanus was awarded Blue Flag status in 2013 and is known for its easy access and beautiful vantage point between Walker Bay and the fynbos covered mountains. Easy access, safety standards and natural ecological value.

Grotto Beach with the lagoon in the background
Image:Grotto Beach with the lagoon in the background

The Klein River Estuary forms a lagoon on the eastern side of Grotto Beach and is of great natural ecological value. The lagoon is shallow, warm, safe for swimming and is also used for water sports such as windsurfing. Keen bird watchers are in for a treat and feathered beauties such as Blue Cranes and African black oystercatchers go about their business in the lagoon and on the beach.

People hiking on the mountain with Grotto Beach almost showing
Image: People hiking on the mountain with Grotto Beach almost showing

An abundance of amenities, safe swimming conditions and plenty of room for even the most active beachgoer, await at Grotto Beach. For those sunseekers who prefer a little solitude, the massive expanse of the beach means that, even in peak season, there is room to find a quiet spot to plant your umbrella and relax with a good book. 

If you are the sporty type then Grotto Beach is a playground not to be missed. Making new friends while making the most of opportunities to play beach volleyball, touch rugby and frisbee. Otherwise, it’s all about surfing, skimboarding and just about every other water sport known to mankind. 

During peak season numerous educational and charitable events take place at Grotto Beach which includes environmental initiatives for the community and coastal clean-ups. 

"Grotto Winter Morning" mixed media available at Lize Art Gallery.
Image: "Grotto Winter Morning" mixed media available at Lize Art Gallery.

Beaches & Tidal Pools in-and-around Hermanus:

*Please Note: The sea can be extremely rough at times and it is always best to consult locals on conditions and swim where lifeguards are on duty.