Little Excursions While on Holiday
🌊 Discovering the simple joys of Kidd’s Beach — walks, waves, and warm cups of coffee
When the wind is part of summer life – and at Kidd’s Beach it nearly always is — you learn to choose your adventures by its direction. Whether it’s a gentle east wind or a brisk westerly, there’s always a beautiful walk, a sheltered corner, and a good cup of coffee to make the most of the day.
☕ When the East Wind Blows – Filla’s Place
When the east wind comes sweeping in, seek out the most sheltered, and perhaps the most charming route: the walk from the old Top Shop, now Filla’s Place (locals will know that name very well and Filla would have turned 100 this December). It’s the perfect place to begin (or end) your stroll with excellent food, coffee, and a little local shopping. It also has an art gallery and internet café for those who need connectivity.
Park outside Filla’s Place, face the ocean, and take the path through the bush. It winds gently through shady shrubs and coastal forest, crossing the Mkansti River, slipping under the R72, and eventually emerging at a quiet crossroads after passing old farm tunnels.
If you continue straight over the intersection, you’ll find the Anglican Church Cemetery, a peaceful, well-kept site where some of Kidd’s Beach’s early residents rest — a spot that seems to breathe history and calm.
Return the same way, and you’ve enjoyed a tranquil 6 km loop, full of birdsong and dappled light … or you can chose to continue walking amongst the pineapple farms to extend the walk before crossing back under the R72. This is also a great cycle route.
🌅 When the West Wind Whistles – The Ncera River Trail
If the west wind is blowing, embrace it with a walk that starts on the dirt road in front of the last house in Ocean View Terrace, heading toward Palm Springs and the magnificent Ncera River. This is the river which was touted to form the boundary between the then so-called Ciskei and South Africa. A sad part of history, but history nonetheless.
After crossing the Palm Springs lagoon and before entering the single-track bush path, pause to admire Mermaid’s Pool — a beautiful natural pool at Second Beach (Leonards Bay) that reveals itself at low tide. It’s a perfect place to cool off or simply watch the light play on the rocks. Please keep dogs on leashes, the somewhat endangered Oystercatchers often nest in this area.
The walk continues along a stretch of rocky coastline until the sand returns beneath your feet and you reach the wide, serene mouth of the Ncera River. Return the same way, with the wind now behind you, to complete 6 km’s… or, for a longer adventure, loop back through Palm Springs Resort and stroll along the farm roads past the retail centre — conveniently close to another round of cappuccinos at the OK or a well-earned portion of fish and chips next door!
🕊️ When the Air is Gentle – The Gxulu Estuary
When the east wind softens, or not, but the day feels calm, head to the Gxulu Estuary — a place where time seems to slow down. From the tea room follow the coast where birdlife abounds — herons, fish eagles, and kingfishers dart through the foliage. At low tide, you’ll find one or two inviting pools for a swim. Turn at the estuary and walk back to reward yourself at the Tea Room, where the panoramic ocean view is rivalled only by the delicious brunches or cold beers. This walk — there and back — is roughly 7 km, though you may wish it were longer.
Alternatively, embark on a serene yet adventurous kayaking journey from Gulu Private Resort to Shumani’s Garden of Eden, paddling along the tranquil and scenic Gulu River. Starting at the resort, where friendly staff provide all the necessary gear and guidance, you’ll glide through lush landscapes alive with birds and wildlife, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. The gentle river flow makes it perfect for both beginners and seasoned kayakers. Your destination, Shumani’s Garden of Eden, is a secluded natural paradise filled with indigenous trees and vibrant biodiversity—ideal for exploring, birdwatching, or simply unwinding. After soaking in the tranquillity, paddle back to Gulu Private Resort to enjoy freshly baked treats and a hearty meal by the river water.
🌾 For the Leisurely Wanderer – The River Walk
For those who prefer something shorter but no less beautiful, the Kidd’s Beach River Walk never disappoints. A gentle path follows the river’s curve, where you might catch sight of the majestic goliath heron, resident fish eagles or the glint of a fish breaking the surface. This used to be a road to the first cottages which were strategically placed out of the wind.
Pause on a bench, breathe in the salt and stillness, and simply let the beauty of nature settle in. Afterwards, pop into Bentleys for one of their perfectly made cappuccinos — and don’t think of leaving without one of Bronwyn’s famous Snicker Doodles or Compulsory Cookies.
For the Dreamers – Blue Fish Gulley
If you fancy letting the sea do all the work, Blue Fish Gulley is a treasure. Situated towards the end of Ocean View Terrace, this natural rock pool fills gently at low tide, offering the most soothing seat imaginable. Sit back and let the waves lap against your shoulders — or enjoy the soft “rollercoaster” rhythm as the ocean breathes in and out. An ideal place to take a flask and enjoy your own beverage!
🏖️ For the Adventurous – Long Coastal Walks with the Wind at Your Back
For the more energetic (and those lucky enough to organise a lift), longer coastal walks are an unforgettable way to experience the shoreline.
If the west wind is behind you, get dropped off at Kaysers Beach and walk home to Kidd’s Beach, passing Flat Rocks (a local favourite for ‘musseling’), the surfing haven of Seavale, the striking Christmas Rock, and peaceful Cosy Corner.
If the east wind is your friend and you know someone in the estate, start from Cove Rock Estate or otherwise from Winterstrand and walk to Cove Rock. Swim in the sheltered tidal pool beside the rock, then follow the coastline home via Winterstrand, Igoda, and Gxulu.
These routes are about 15 km one way — longer but breathtakingly beautiful.
And of course, you can always reward yourself afterwards with a meal at Cove Rock Estate or the Winterstrand Social Club, both well worth a visit and boasting good restaurants and scrumptious food.
☕ A Final Word
Whether it’s a calm morning stroll, a wild coastal hike, or simply a coffee date, Kidd’s Beach has a way of drawing you in — inviting you to slow down, explore, and savour the rhythm of seaside life. A hidden gem that beats any other! Why? Because here, even a simple walk becomes a memory — carried on the wind, and sealed with salt, sunshine, family and friends.
PS Consider taking a bag on walks to collect any plastic that may have washed up on the beach.
– S.J.
