Luxury Hotels Atlas / Places / South Africa / Hermanus / The Marine
The Marine
Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa · Liz McGrath · Core Luxury



The property originated as a sanatorium in 1896 before being established as The Marine Hotel in 1902 by Walter McFarlane. After several ownership changes and renovations, it was acquired and meticulously restored in 1998 by the late Liz McGrath, becoming a flagship of her luxury hotel collection. The hotel is situated on the historic Hermanus cliff path, overlooking the whale-rich waters of Walker Bay.
- 40 rooms
- Opened 1902
- Neighborhood: Overstrand Ward 3
- Rooms from 344 sq ft (32 m²)
About The Marine
- The Pavilion restaurant channels 1920s-inspired decor, in keeping with the hotel's Edwardian-era roots.
- Guests get direct access to the 10-kilometer Hermanus cliff path, one of South Africa's best whale-watching walks.
- Entry-level rooms start at 344 sq ft (32 m²).
History
The property originated as a sanatorium in 1896 before being established as The Marine Hotel in 1902 by Walter McFarlane. After several ownership changes and renovations, it was acquired and meticulously restored in 1998 by the late Liz McGrath, becoming a flagship of her luxury hotel collection. The hotel is situated on the historic Hermanus cliff path, overlooking the whale-rich waters of Walker Bay.
The setting
1.4 km from Hermanus Golf Club. 3.9 km from Fernkloof Nature Reserve.
Restaurants and bars
- The Pavilion — Restaurant
- Sun Lounge & Sun Lounge Bar — Bar
- The Conservatory — Restaurant
- Amelia's — Restaurant
Experiences
- Whale watching — Whale watching during whale season, often directly from the sea view bedrooms.
- Cliff path walks — Located on Hermanus' famous cliff path, overlooking Walker Bay.
Amenities
- Land-based whale watching (seasonal June–November)
- Carchele Beauty Spa
- The Pavilion restaurant (1920s-inspired decor)
- The Sun Lounge & Bar with panoramic bay views
- Heated outdoor saltwater pool
- Direct access to the 10km Hermanus cliff path
- Fitness center
- Pet-friendly
Open The Marine in the atlas for live weekend rates, photos, and the full folio.
More hotels in Hermanus
- Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa — Southern Sun · Accessible Luxury
- Birkenhead House — Independent · Grand Luxury