Cannon Rocks Beach Trail: A Hidden Gem of Bush, Forest, and Drama

So, this sneaky little gem of a trail at Cannon Rocks kicks off with a leisurely stroll through what some optimist has dubbed a "forest."

But where’s the line between “forest” and “bush”? Because this stretch? Pure bush vibes for me. Pretty enough, but not the enchanting, mystical type forests you read about in epic novels..

But then, you start walking towards a flicker of something different on the horizon—and just like that, the terrain decides to show off.

Suddenly, you’re smack in the middle of lush greenery dramatically introducing the endless, sparkling sea.

The trail meanders through the almost forest—

AND THEN it happens. A sand dune. Not just any sand dune—a golden beast of a dune. As you reach the crest, BAM! You’re suddenly smack in the middle of a postcard, endless, sun-kissed dunes ripple into the horizon. Like nature’s version of a mic drop.

Redemption? Thy name is Cannon Rocks!

My camera became my loyal accomplice.....snapping away like a paparazzo, while Pepper—resident killjoy and speed demon—rolled his eyes and stormed ahead in what can only be described as silent protest.

Did I care? Absolutely not. I grinned excitedly, scampered after him, and pretended not to notice his annoyance... until the next photo op, where I gleefully repeated the cycle. Zero shame, zero regrets.

I mean, come on—this was a moment I might never get to experience again! First-time magic always wins over Pepper’s impatience. Every - Single - Time.

Now, let’s talk about the grand finale: the beach walk. After winding our way through the dunes, the trail finally delivered us to a pristine stretch of shoreline that looked like it had been plucked straight from a postcard.

For once, Pepper and I walked in complete silence—not from mutual irritation (shocking, I know), but from a rare shared appreciation for the kind of beauty that shuts you up and makes you just be.

Of course, Pepper couldn’t resist shattering the magic with his incessant, self-righteous nagging: “Take off your boots and get some grounding!” Oh, okay, Russell Brand, thanks for the unsolicited wellness seminar.

So, to shut him up, I begrudgingly peeled off my boots... then my socks... then my second pair of socks.

Yes, I layer my socks. Yes, it’s a thing. Deal with it.

The whole process was equal parts irritating and awkward, and I grumbled and rolled my eyes as annoyingly as he does.

But, here’s the thing—thank you, Pepper. Because the feeling of my bare feet in the ocean for the first time since I was about 16? Pretty much unforgettable.

The waves lapping at my toes, the cool sand beneath my feet—it was a grounding, beautiful moment. A reminder that generally, best memories often come from ditching your comfort zone… and your unnecessary levels of stubbornness.

Pepper had a dip and we I spent most of the walk back walking through the shallow waves.....and.....of course...... snapping pics.

The trail is well-defined, but fear not....we can all exhale in collective relief because—surprise!—we got lost right at the very end.

Standing on the beach, utterly clueless about which sandy stretch was the "exit." Some friendly locals (bless them), pointed us in the right direction.

Turns out, we hadn’t veered that far off course… but as we know, it’s not a hike without a little “detour,” is it?

In summary: Cannon Rocks Beach Trail is an absolute must-do. In fact we went for a hike, and somewhere between the sand dunes and the shoreline, I fell head over heels for the town itself. Cannon Rocks, consider this your official warning—you might see me again

AREA

Cannon Rocks Beach Trail, Cannon Rocks, Eastern Cape, South Africa.

COST

Free

DIFFICULTY

Easy to moderate. This trail is a dream for hikers who want a bit of everything. While the trail itself isn’t overly strenuous, those steep sand dunes are definitely not for anyone who insists their paths stay pancake-flat.

LENGTH

Approximately 7–8 km, depending on how often you stop to admire the views or get lost (like us).

TIME

2–3 hours, depending  on how often you stop to admire the views or get lost (still us).

ELEVATION

Minimal, apart from the one steep sand dune that will feel like Everest mid-climb, but really isn't.

MARKERS

No need...it is a clear trail....well to everyone except....yes, us.

HIGHLIGHTS

The surprise 360° views of the forest and ocean. The golden sand dunes that look like some thing out of a desert dream. The peaceful beach stretch that’s perfect for quiet reflection....just everything actually.

ABLUTIONS

None on the trail, so plan accordingly.

SAFE FREE PARKING

Yes, there’s a parking area near the trailhead, on the road. No security, but honestly? This is Cannon Rocks—where even your car seems to exhale and say, “Yeah, I’m good here.”

AMENITIES

None directly on the trail, but Cannon Rocks has a few small shops nearby for post-hike snacks and essentials.

ON A FINAL NOTE

Start early to avoid the heat and soak in the tranquility of the trail. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and your camera (trust me, you’ll need it).