Kwaaihoek

Between Bushman's River Mouth and Boknes in the Eastern Cape there is a rocky peninsula that juts into the Indian Ocean. This place is called Kwaaihoek. Directly translated from Afrikaans this means "Angry Corner", but in context it means "Windy Corner". The top plato of Kwaaihoek does get its fair share of wind, but around the base you can get relieve from both the westerly and easterly winds that occur in the Eastern Cape.

It is on wind still days though when Kwaaihoek really becomes a paradise. The best time by far is to be there at low-tide because then you will find the tidal pools exposed. You will not believe how colourful these pools can get. Especially if the water is clear. You will see fish, anemones and other marine creatures of all shapes, sizes and colours. Most of the pools are quite shallow, so you don't even have to get your feet wet. If it is a sunny day, the water trapped in the pools gets heated and is often several degrees warmer than the ocean. This makes them ideal for swimming in specially if you don't like cold water.

You will also find various marine birds hunting & searching for food in the tidal pools or on the rocks. Look out for the endangered red-billed oystercatcher. Drivers of 4x4 vehicles are responsible for the endangerment of these birds; the birds lay their eggs on the same stretch that 4x4 drivers typically use. Fortunately this kind of 4x4 driving has been outlawed in the last couple of years. And the oystercatchers seem to be responding well.

On the right day Kwaaihoek also offers some superb scuba diving opportunities. There are lots of navigable gullies that you could spot some surprisingly large fish like mussel-crackers, galjoen & stumpnoses. These gullies aren't too deep so they are relatively safe, but as with all diving anything can happen and you shouldn't do this lightly.

Because you can no longer drive on the beaches, to get there you need to walk from Bushmans (about 3km) or Boknes (about 6km). Don't let this put you off though. It is a beautiful coastline and its quite possible to spot dolphins and if you're very lucky whales.

Some things to take note of when visiting:

• Be very careful on the rocks at Kwaaihoek; they can be very sharp and you can easily hurt yourself. A pair of old trainers are highly recommended. Even the seasoned locals always wear at least some sort of foot gear.


• Don't underestimate the sun. The reflection of the water intensifies the sun, so make sure you have adequate sun protection.

All in all Kwaaihoek can be very stimulating and is definitely one of the Treasures of the Eastern Cape.

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