Working Remotely by the Sea.
A Digital Nomad’s Guide to Betty’s Bay & Hermanus
For Digital Nomads seeking balance, few things rival the rhythm of working remotely by the sea. The Western Cape offers a rare opportunity to combine productivity with nature, and a split stay between Betty’s Bay and Hermanus creates the ideal slow-travel experience.
Spending at least 4 weeks in Betty’s Bay, followed by 4 - 6 weeks in Hermanus, allows remote workers to settle into each destination, build routine, and truly experience coastal living - not just pass through it.
Why Digital Nomads are choosing longer stays
Longer stays mean:
Fewer travel days, more productive workdays.
Time to establish a routine.
Deeper connection to place and community.
Better value and comfort than short hotel stays.
Time to become involved in local conservation efforts e.g. Bettys Bay Penguin Colony, join local “hackers’” groups in removing alien vegetation etc.
Betty’s Bay and Hermanus complement each other perfectly - one wild and restorative, the other vibrant and social.
Part 1 : Four weeks in Betty’s Bay - Nature, Focus and Reset
Betty’s Bay is ideal for deep focus, creative work and reconnection with nature. Life slows down here creating space to work without distraction.
Outdoor activities and hikes :
Harold Porter Botanical Gardens - gentle walks, waterfalls, fynbos and forest trails.
Leopards Kloof trail - a more challenging hike with rewarding views. This walk is our favorite.
Stoney Point Penguin Colony - early morning walks alongside critically endangered African Penguins.
Silversands Beach - long beach walks, sunrise, swims, quiet reflection.
Palmiet river and estuary - peaceful spots for reading or post work unwinding.
Lifestyle Rhythm
Mornings often begin with coffee overlooking the Ocean, followed by focused work hours. Afternoons are perfect for walks, swims, hikes with evenings spent cooking, reading, or simply listening to the night sounds and watching the night skies.
Part 2 : Four to six weeks in Hermanus - Energy, Culture, Community
After a month of quiet immersion in nature, Hermanus offers a gentle shift, still coastal and calm but with more social energy and variety. Outdoor and active living :
Hermanus Cliff path - daily walks with Ocean and Whale sightings, seasonal.
Fernkloof Nature reserve - extensive hiking trails with panoramic view.
Voelklip & Grotto Beach - swimming, sunrises and sunset.
Kyaking and coastal activities - ideal for pre- or post - work sessions
Cafe’s and restaurants (remote-worker friendly)
Ficks pool cafe - ocean views and relaxed lunches.
Just pure bistro - healthy breakfasts and coffee.
Pear tree - relaxed dining for evenings out.
Burgundy restaurant - great for sunset dinners.
Dutchies at Grotto Beach - casual, scenic, social.
Many digital nomads structure their days around morning work sessions, mid-day walks, and social evenings - striking a natural balance between prodictivity and lifestyle.