The small village of De Kelders, located just 5 km north of Gansbaai and about a 25-minute drive from Hermanus, remains a peaceful haven that has largely avoided the mass tourism that has become common in other parts of South Africa. Retaining its charm as a traditional fishing village, De Kelders is also renowned for its exceptional seafood, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway. Situated along the shores of Walker Bay, De Kelders is famously known as the home of the Southern Right Whale. Between July and November, these majestic whales return to the sheltered bays and rocky inlets of the area to mate and calve. De Kelders offers some of the best land-based whale watching in the world, with the whales often coming within mere meters of the rocks lining the kelp beds along the coastline. The sight of these magnificent creatures never fails to captivate visitors. In addition to its whale watching, De Kelders is home to a distinctive geological feature—a series of underground caves beneath the cliffs. These caves, formerly known as Die Drup Kelder (the drip cellar), give the village its name. The caves, both large and small, are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear pools, offering an intriguing glimpse into the natural wonders of the area. One of the caves, the Freshwater Cave, is particularly famous for its pool, although it remains closed to the public to preserve its pristine beauty. For those looking for a place to swim, Stanford's Bay in De Kelders offers an excellent alternative. Further up the coast, outside the Walker Bay Nature Reserve, lies Klipgat Cave, where some of the oldest remains of modern humans have been discovered. For those interested in exploring the coastline, the Klipgat Trail offers a 7-kilometre hike from the Gansbaai harbour to the cave. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of rock pools, caves, and rare limestone fynbos. The Walker Bay Nature Reserve itself is also worth a visit, offering a 17-kilometre stretch of coastline with the picturesque De Plaat beach as one of its highlights.