Groves Café

Seaside Café with Whale Watching Views

Perched along the famous cliff path with stunning views of Walker Bay, Groves Café offers one of the prime spots in Hermanus for whale watching while enjoying quality coffee and casual dining. The café's positioning makes it an ideal rest stop during whale season (June to November), where patrons can spot Southern Right whales breaching from their tables.

Menu Highlights

The café specializes in all-day breakfast and light meals with several standout options:

• Breakfast Board - A local favorite for those wanting a substantial morning meal
• Savoury French Toast - Well-prepared though some prefer additional sweetness
• Benedict Croissant - A popular option with regular diners
• Open-faced Gypsy Ham Sandwich - A simple but delicious signature
• Brisket Burger - Known locally as "the burger to end all burgers"
• Waffles - Particularly good with salted caramel topping

Coffee & Drinks

The café serves Terbodore coffee, widely regarded as among the best in Hermanus. Their white hot chocolate with almond milk and chai lattes receive particularly positive mentions. During load shedding (planned power outages), they're one of the few spots that can still serve coffee - a valuable feature for visitors.

Local Tips

• Time your visit between 10am-2pm during whale season for optimal marine viewing
• The outdoor seating offers the best views but fills quickly during peak season
• The café is wheelchair accessible with outdoor seating available for viewing comfort
• Grab a take-away coffee and stroll along the adjacent cliff path for the full experience
• If visiting on public holidays, expect longer wait times as they're one of the few eateries that remain open

After your meal, simply cross the road to access the old whale station area, which now features small rock pools where children can safely play in the water. Parking is available opposite the Marine Hotel, serving all restaurants in this prime area.