[clarification needed] Many of the 178 plant species that can be found here burst into flower in spring time, covering the dunes with colour.

The shrine (or “kramat”) of Sheikh Yusuf is located on a hill on the eastern edge of the reserve and is still a site of worship and pilgrimage.

The local ecosystem is classified as endangered and what is left of it is under threat from alien invasive plants like Acacia cyclops (“Rooikrans”), sand-mining and the rapid spread of informal settlements which is threatening to engulf the nature reserve.

These too-frequent fires reduce the ability of the indigenous vegetation to regenerate and are also a danger to the people of the neighbouring informal settlements.

The reserve also provides shelter for the communities from the strong winds and sand from the coast, as well as being a protection from storm damage and a source of fresh water.