Nostalgic charm
Boesmansriviermond (Bushman’s River Mouth)
Just across the tranquil Boesman’s River from Kenton-on-Sea, Boesmansriviermond – fondly known as "Bushmans" by locals – is a quiet holiday village. Smaller and quieter than its neighbour Kenton, Bushmans evokes the timeless simplicity of seaside holidays from a bygone era – where relaxation, family, and nature take centre stage. Many visitors who spent their childhood summers here return year after year, bringing new generations to create cherished memories on these familiar shores.
What to Do
- River cruises: Hop aboard a leisurely guided cruise (like Kingfisher Cruises), departing regularly from the slipway near the river mouth. As you glide upriver, enjoy the abundant birdlife or even spot game animals such as giraffe or antelope grazing along the banks in nearby reserves.
- Water-skiing and tubing: Bushman’s River is expansive, boasting around 32 km of tidal waters, perfect for skiing or tubing. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal when the water is glassy smooth. If you’ve got the gear, join locals as they zip across the river, but keep an eye out for shallow sandbanks at low tide.
- Fishing: Anglers flock to Bushman’s River seeking species such as grunter, kob, garrick, and stumpnose. Drift bait or cast lures near the mouth for exciting catches. The quieter upper reaches provide peaceful fishing spots too, just remember to obtain your permit and adhere to local regulations.
- Swimming: At the designated swimming area near the slipway beach, the calm, warm waters are ideal for families, offering a safe, wave-free swimming experience.
- Bushman’s Beach: Accessed typically by boat or a short drive across Kenton’s bridge, this beach feels secluded and remote – perfect for those craving solitude. At low tide, a small sandbank island emerges near the river mouth, providing the adventurous an exciting opportunity to claim their own private patch of sand.
- Milkwood Forest walks: Bushmans boasts beautiful, century-old milkwood groves throughout the village. Unmarked paths winding beneath the leafy canopies offer delightful walks or relaxed bike rides. Listen to cicadas, and birds, and perhaps meet locals walking their dogs.
- Visit historic sites: For history enthusiasts, the nearby headland known as The Island holds intriguing World War II ruins – a blockhouse and lookout originally built to spot enemy submarines.