The picnic site at the entrance gate (-34.7100, 20.1046) is situated along the banks of the Heuningnes River, under Milkwood trees. Other than the more common coastal thickets birds like Cape Batis, Acacia Pied Barbet and Fiscal Flycatcher, Southern Tchagra can be found foraging in the leaf litter under the trees. Keep a lookout for the resident pair of Spotted Eagle Owls that breed in the vicinity of the picnic site, the youngsters often sitting quietly in the Milkwood trees. Along the river typical species like Pied Kingfisher as well as swifts and martins can be observed.

There are two boardwalks allowing the visitor access to various sections on the reserve. The boardwalk that begins behind the office (-34.7110, 20.1052) takes the visitor along the eastern edge of the estuary to the salt marshes and mudflats. Depending on water levels, during the summer months this area contains a host of migratory waders. While binoculars are sufficient, a tripod and telescope make the bird experience more rewarding. A summer visit should turn up a whole host of migrant waders like Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint, Sanderling, Eurasian Curlew, Whimbrel, Common Greenshank and Terek Sandpiper.

Next to the office a foot bridge (-34.7109, 20.1046) over the river provides access to the boardwalk on the western side of the estuary. This is also the start of the 6.7 km Sterna trail. The trail takes the visitor along the edge of the estuary to the coast and then westwards before turning inland to return to the footbridge through the dune vegetation. Sandbars and the edges of the estuary are favourite roosting sites for several coastal species of birds, most notably terns, gulls, and cormorants. The star species in the reserve is the diminutive Damara Tern which can be often seen foraging in the estuary mouth or just offshore along the coast. The section of the trail through the dune vegetation is host to a number of species including Black Harrier, which nest in the area.

African Grass Owl has been recorded breeding on the reserve and overnight visitors should be on the lookout for the species at dusk.

Key species:

Southern Tchagra, Greater Sand Plover, Terek Sandpiper, Eurasian Curlew, Damara Tern