Nestled along the stunning Western Cape coastline, Hermanus has a rich history of surfing that spans decades. From the humble beginnings in the late 1950s to the thriving surf culture of today, the waves of Hermanus have witnessed the evolution of surfing and the birth of a passionate surf community. Join us as we ride the waves of time, exploring the surf culture in Hermanus then and now.
Surfing Back in the Day
Late 1950s - 1970s: Pioneering the Waves
In the late 1950s, surfers from Cape Town made the journey to Hermanus, seeking the best waves in the region. Gansbaai initially held the spotlight until a breakwater was built at the harbour. Louis Day, a well-known resident and the first local surfer of Hermanus, shares tales of his surfing adventures that began at the tender age of 8.
Louis vividly recalls his early experiences, from navigating the waves at Kammabaai without wetsuits to venturing all the way to Kleinmond in his dad's Willys Jeep. For years, this pristine stretch to Kleinmond remained untouched by other surfers. John Whitmore, a pioneer of surfing in South Africa, later joined with two friends. Together, they embarked on surf expeditions in a split-window Kombi to Gansbaai. If the waves weren't ideal there, they would make a few surfing stops along the way on their journey back.
1974-1976: Voëlklip Vibes and Premier Waves
Voëlklip was the epicentre of surf culture in the mid-'70s. Surfing at Bayview, with its legendary reef hook known as "The Door" that would either open up for you or slap you in the face, and exploring other spots like Onrus Outers, consistently delivered popular waves. Wetsuits made their debut, with Sondor Wetsuits providing the first taste of warmth in the chilly Atlantic waters.
1978-1979: Evolution of Water Sports
The late '70s saw the introduction of paddle skiers and the rise of boogie boarding, which eventually evolved into today's bodyboarding. Boogie boarding had its origins with individuals spending holidays in December and Easter at Voëlklip and Onrus Beach. During those times, their boards were simple blocks of foam.
Louis Day founded the Bayview Surf Club, laying the foundation for the surf community's growth. Hermanus became a sought-after destination, and owning a home in the area came to symbolise success. The shift from "going into town" meaning crossing Sir Lowreys Pass for a day out, to referring to going to Hermanus CBD showcased the town's growing prominence.
Surfing Now
2015-2023: From Nostalgia to Progress
In 2015, Louis Day founded the Whalecoast Wave Riders Surf Club, creating a platform for surfers of all ages and disciplines. The club, now thriving, embraces bodyboarders, bodysurfers, SUP enthusiasts, and anyone passionate about riding waves.
The evolution of boarding sports in Hermanus is evident in the hosting of the Walker Bay Pro, part of the IBC Bodyboarding World Tour. Local talent like Tristan Roberts, Marc Webster, and Luke Staniforth have shone on the global stage, exemplifying Hermanus's place in the contemporary surf scene.
2022-2023: Walker Bay Pro Champions
The Walker Bay Pro in 2022 witnessed local hero Tristan Roberts claiming victory, while 2023 saw Marc Webster and Luke Staniforth reaching the semi-finals. The fierce competition against the likes of fellow South African Benjy Oliver, who won this year's men's division, showcased the world-class talent nurtured in the waves of Onrus.
From Louis Day's 1960s exploits to local surfers' global triumphs, Hermanus remains a cradle of surf culture, where waves echo both history and progress. Whether you're seasoned or new to the water scene, Hermanus invites you to ride its timeless waves. Seeff Hermanus takes pride in its involvement in both the inaugural IBC Bodyboarding World Tour - the Walker Bay Pro 2022, and the Walker Bay Pro 2023. Join us in Hermanus, where surfing isn't just a sport - it's life in ocean motion.
