De Mond Nature Reserve is a small picturesque coastal reserve that lies almost halfway between Arniston and Struisbaai. The Heuningness River widens here before entering the sea, forming a tranquil lagoon that is popular with fishermen and birdwatchers. De Mond is one of only a few important breeding locations for the Damara Tern in South Africa.
The coastal fynbos, dunes and coastline of the reserve may be traversed by walking the 7km Sterna Trail that rises to a high lookout point near the start of the trail, giving elevated views of De Mond. Dense stands of ancient and knarled Milkwood trees occur near the entrance gate and attract a number of sought after bird species.
1 of 7: De Mond Nature Reserve as viewed from the lookout on the Sterna Trail.
2 of 7: Southern Tchagra.
3 of 7: Walking the Sterna Trail.
4 of 7: Tropical looking waters of the Heuningness Etuary.
5 of 7: Signage warning of the Caspian Tern breeding colony.
6 of 7: Greater Flamingo flock in the shallow waters of the estuary.
7 of 7: Ploughshare snails feed on the beach at low tide.