A Nostalgic Pause in Storms River
A Summer Road Trip to Cape St Francis & Jeffreys Bay With a Nostalgic Stop in Storms River – 13 December There’s something truly special about a December road trip along South Africa’s coastline. On the 13th of December, we packed the car, turned up the music, and set off for a beautiful summer escape to Cape St Francis and Jeffreys Bay — with a charming stop in Storms River along the way.The drive itself was part of the adventure. Long stretches of open road, lush greenery, and that unmistakable feeling of freedom that only a road trip can bring. December in the Eastern Cape carries a certain magic — warm air, blue skies, and the promise of beach days ahead.
Breakfast at a Retro Hidden Gem
Our first stop was in Storms River for breakfast at the iconic Marilyn's 60's Diner, conveniently located just off the N2 along the Garden Route. From the outside, you might not expect what waits inside — but the moment you walk through the doors, you’re transported straight back to the golden era of rock ‘n roll.Black-and-white checkered floors, bold red diner chairs, vintage posters, and classic 60’s décor instantly lift your mood. But it’s the details that truly make this place unforgettable. Inside the diner stands a stunning pink Cadillac-style classic car, parked as if it just cruised in from the 1950s. It’s a true showstopper and the perfect photo opportunity.
Nearby, you’ll spot an old vintage motorbike adding to the authentic retro feel, along with roller skates, classic record players, retro telephones, and nostalgic décor pieces carefully displayed throughout the space. 
Music lovers will be drawn to the two jukeboxes. The pink jukebox still works — lighting up and filling the diner with timeless tunes — while the second jukebox stands proudly beside it, a beautiful reminder of how music used to be chosen one coin at a time.
The walls feel like a mini museum dedicated to legends. There’s an incredible collection of memorabilia celebrating Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley — framed portraits, vinyl records, vintage prints, and iconic images that honour their lasting influence.
It’s not just a diner — it’s an experience.
The Hardest Part? Deciding What to
Walking into Marilyn's 60's Diner was one thing… deciding what to order was another story! The menu is packed with classic diner favourites — from stacked breakfast plates to fluffy pancakes and indulgent milkshakes that immediately catch your eye.
Do you go for something sweet? Or stick to a hearty, savoury breakfast? That was the big debate. In true road trip fashion, we took our time, laughed over the options, and finally chose meals that were the perfect fuel for the rest of the journey.
Fresh coffee, generous portions, and comforting flavours made it absolutely worth the stop. It wasn’t rushed. It wasn’t complicated. It was one of those simple, happy travel moments that makes a road trip unforgettable.
Until the next adventure
