Ocean-View Stays in Hermanus on Walker Bay

The Gregoire Boutique Villa in Hermanus has individually decorated suites that mix modern comforts with old-world charm, many with terraces overlooking the sea, the pool or the garden. An outdoor pool and a hot tub are on site, and the Cliff Path is within easy reach for whale watching, cycling and hiking. The setting is refined, so it suits couples and families with older children. Guests give it 9.5 across 8 reviews.

The W-Collection Esplanade suits families who want to be directly on the beach in Hermanus. Rooms have air-conditioning, kitchen facilities, private bathrooms and a balcony or terrace, with sea views, and family rooms are available. Some units have private pools, which parents may like. The outdoor pool, the sun terrace, the restaurant and bar with outdoor seating and the spa round out the stay. Hermanus lies outside any malaria risk area.

Grand Lux Boutique Manor in Hermanus is a five-star boutique property with direct beachfront access and striking sea and mountain views. Rooms have private balconies, and a sun terrace, a lush garden, a hot tub, a fitness centre and a spa are on site. The restaurant serves local and South African cuisine. I would treat it as a polished option for couples or families with older children. A 9.0 rating from 202 reviews is a strong result.

Harbour House Hotel is in Hermanus's old harbour area, with ocean views and a wine bar. Guests choose between Harbour Square rooms with a rooftop pool and self-catering suites, or Manor House rooms with garden and pool views from a balcony or patio. The mix suits couples and families who like to self-cater. An 8.7 rating from 1,124 reviews is strong and well tested.

Harbour House Hotel at Harbour Square in Hermanus has family rooms with sea views and balconies, which is the main draw. Each room has air conditioning, a private bathroom, a work desk and free WiFi. Guests can use an outdoor swimming pool and spa facilities, and there is a restaurant serving lunch, a bar and an outdoor dining area. Free on-site private parking is included. Guests score it 8.7 across 137 reviews.

One Marine Drive suits families who want a quiet seafront base in Hermanus. The heated outdoor pool and the sun terrace are the focal points, and stylish air-conditioned rooms include some with sea-view balconies. The famous cliff path is a short stroll away, which makes coastal walks easy with children. Hermanus lies outside any malaria risk area. It is a quiet, elegant boutique stay rather than a resort with activities.

Harbour House Manor House suits families who want direct access to the beach in Hermanus. There is an infinity pool, a sun terrace and a lush garden, and rooms have private bathrooms with bathrobes, free WiFi and sea-view balconies. Parents can use the spa and the hot tub. The restaurant serves lunch and an à la carte breakfast, and the bar is relaxed. The location is central and a little busy, which is convenient for exploring Hermanus.