Yes, it is a well-maintained provincial road, but drive cautiously on curves.

Can I see whales from the road?

Yes, whales are often visible from the R44 during the season.

How long is the drive?

It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

No direct public bus service exists; private transfers are available.

No, the R44 is not a toll road.

Simon's Town

Hermanus

Driving

Simon's Town to Hermanus

Updated: 30 May 2026

The route from Simon's Town to Hermanus is a spectacular 110 km coastal journey. You will travel via the R44, famously known as Clarence Drive, which hugs the coastline between Gordon's Bay and Rooi-Els. This drive offers breathtaking views of False Bay and the Hottentots Holland Mountains. The trip takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on stops at viewpoints. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful drives in South Africa.

Total Distance: 110 km driving distance; 65 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the R44 takes 1 hour 45 minutes without major stops.

Cheapest Way

Private vehicle is the most cost-effective and only practical way to enjoy the scenery.

Compare Simon's Town to Hermanus Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

1 hour 45 mins

Avg Price

R200 - R300 fuel

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

R44 Clarence Drive

Stop at the Steenbras Lookout for panoramic photos of the bay.

Travel Tips

Whale Season
Book accommodation well in advance if traveling between August and October.
Windy Conditions
The R44 can be very windy; keep both hands on the steering wheel.
Photography
Bring a camera with a zoom lens for whale spotting from the shore.
Parking
Parking in Hermanus town center can be tight during peak season.
Refreshments
Stop in Pringle Bay for a coffee break along the route.

Safety Tips

Road Curves
Clarence Drive has many sharp bends; adhere to speed limits.
Baboons
Do not feed baboons if you encounter them along the coastal road.
Night Driving
Avoid driving the R44 at night due to limited lighting and wildlife.
Emergency
Keep a mobile phone charged as cell reception is spotty in some coastal sections.