Pennington Circular Walk
Forest Paths, Railway Vistas & Coastal Shores
The Experience
Route Overview
For the best-of-Pennington experience, follow the 5 km orange route in a clockwise direction.
Start / End Points:
1. The Nkomba Bird Sanctuary
10 Dolphin Drive (Parking & picnic sites).
2. The Beach Café
8 Cherry Lane (Parking, food, Blue Flag beach swimming & seasonal tidal pool).
Explore Additional Trails:
- The Sea Bean Trail (Nkomba)
- The Forest Loop Walk (Nkomba)
- The Bird Hide Trail (Nkomba)
- Makamati Viewing Deck (Umdoni Road South)
Seasonal Alternatives:
Railway Alt (Light Green):
If the Pont is not floating, take this route along the north bank. It includes a short steep bit up to the railway line, but the great views from the bridge make it worthwhile.
Beach Walk (Blue Route):
Take the blue route to enjoy walking on the beach. Look for the **Yellow Exits** to join the road again.
Interactive Trail Map
Map Legend
- Circular Route (Main)
- Railway Alternate
- Beach Walk Alternate
- Beach/Road Exits
- Additional Trails
- Key Points & Pins
Waypoints & Detours
The Pont vs Railway
The Nkomba exit is weather-dependent. The Pont is the easiest crossing, but the Railway path is a local favorite for its elevated vantage point—ideal for whale watching in season.
Bird Hide Detour
Don't miss the internal trails at Nkomba. The Bird Hide provides a peaceful window into our riverine ecosystem, where kingfishers and herons are frequently sighted.
Chestnut Corner
As you complete the loop via Umdoni Road South and North, the route passes Chestnut Corner, a flagship indigenous garden maintained by our volunteers.
Trail Etiquette
- Dogs: MUST be on a leash.
- Litter: Take it home.
- Safety: Walk in pairs.
- Hydration: Carry water.