Knysna in South Africa - The most beautiful sights & tips

For us, Knysna in South Africa is a must-see on any trip along the Garden Route. Not only is the lagoon city a real eye-catcher in terms of its scenery, it also has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine. Knysna is located between Wilderness and Plettenberg Bay and is an excellent place to stop. We’ve been to the city twice so far and will definitely return a third time.

We particularly like the great viewpoints, the lagoon, the diverse activities, and the fantastic cafés and restaurants. In the following article, we’ll take you to Knysna and share the best sights, highlights, and travel tips with you. Have fun browsing!

What else you should know

What else you should know
General information about Knysna in South Africa
Knysna Sights
- 1. Knysna Lagoon
- 2. Knysna Heads
- 3. Knysna Waterfront & Harbour
- 4. Oaks on Main – Artisan Oasis
- 5. Thesen Island
- 6. Leisure Island
- 7. Experience whales & dolphins in Knysna
- 8. Knysna in South Africa – Knysna Forest
- 9. Featherbed Nature Reserve
- 10. Kayak tours on the Knysna River
- 11. Markets in and around Knysna
- 12. The Knysna Gin Distillery
Beaches around Knysna
Daytrip tips around Knysna
Cafes and restaurants in Knysna
Great accommodations in Knysna
- Accommodations we would also book:

General information about Knysna in South Africa

Knysna in South Africa is located between Plettenberg Bay and Wilderness along the beautiful Garden Route on the N2. Only around 51,000 people live in this idyllic and diverse lagoon town with its charming harbor. Almost every tourist to South Africa stops in Knysna, as there are truly interesting sights, plenty of water sports, and great excursions in the surrounding area. Knysna in South Africa is also a great travel destination in terms of climate, as it is very mild year-round and you also have the warmer Indian Ocean right on your doorstep.

Back then, we were in Knysna for two nights, exploring the town and the surrounding area on our own. I still remember our walk along the harbor, the beautiful view of the lagoon and the Knysna Heads, as well as the idyllic Knysna Forest and the endless sandy beaches. Our second trip to Knysna (January 2025) was also fantastic. This time we stayed in the lagoon town for four nights and thoroughly enjoyed every single day.

Cape Town – Knysna 488 kilometers | Travel time without a break approx. 5 hours
Port Elizabeth – Knysna 261 kilometers | Travel time without a break approx. 2:45 hours
Mossel Bay – Knysna 105 kilometers | Travel time without a break approx. 1:15 hours
Plettenberg Bay – Knysna 32 kilometers | Travel time without a break approx. 0.5 hours
Wilderness – Knysna 47 kilometers | Travel time without a break: approx. 0.5 hours.

Knysna Sights

On the map below, we’ve marked some places and highlights for you. There are certainly more spots, but we don’t know every corner of the town and surrounding area. However, this map will certainly be sufficient for an initial overview. We recommend at least 2 nights here so you can also enjoy one or two great activities.

By loading the map, you accept Google’s privacy policy.
Learn more

Load map

Always unblock Google Maps

1. Knysna Lagoon

The town’s unique feature is certainly its location: a saltwater lagoon of approximately 20 square kilometers (Knysna Lagoon) lies directly between the town and the Indian Ocean. The lagoon is fed by five freshwater rivers flowing from the surrounding Outeniqua Mountains. Only a rather narrow, rocky entrance (called Knysna Heads) provides access from the sea.

The famous Knysna oysters are still farmed in the lagoon, and you can sample them almost anywhere at the harbor. At the harbor and on the waterfront, you’ll also find numerous providers for boat tours (e.g., paddle cruisers), SUP, sailing, kayaking, and whale-watching tours. More on that later.

75-minute boat trip in the lagoon (from €25)*
Stand-up paddleboarding with board rental (from €13)*
Luxury sunset sailing tour (from €72)*
2-hour whale watching tour (from €75)*

Knysna-Lagune-Garden-Route-Suedafrika

2. Knysna Heads

Whenever you read about Knysna, you’re sure to come across the so-called “Knysna Heads”. These are the striking rocks that form the gateway between the Indian Ocean and the lagoon. The Royal Navy once said that it was once the most dangerous entrance in the world. Quite a few ships met a tragic end here, which in turn makes the many divers happy today.

There are several wrecks in front of the entrance that you can explore on a dive. From the spectacular “heads” you have a wonderful view of the lagoon, the narrow passage and the Indian Ocean. Be sure to drive up to the “East Head View Point” and enjoy the spectacular view. Click here for the live cam. The view from the lower viewpoint (East Head Lower Viewpoint) is also magnificent.

3. Knysna Waterfront & Harbor

Our first act back then was a walk along the harbor promenade. Here you will find numerous restaurants, cafés, jewelry and bookstores, souvenir shops, boutiques, snack bars, a yacht club, accommodations, and many providers of leisure activities. And during our second trip, we again strolled along the harbor, browsed the shops, and took a look around Knysna’s town center.

4. Oaks on Main – Artisan Oasis

Highly recommended is the small market “Oaks on Main” (the sign says “Artisan Oasis”) right next to Memorial Square in Knysna. This beautifully decorated garden in the heart of town awaits you with several cafés and great shops. You should definitely stop here and stroll through the various stores. Highly recommended is the juice bar “The Node Knysna,” where you can not only get delicious and healthy juice creations, but also purchase some lovely little things in the shop itself. Be sure to also browse the wonderful Madam Botany shop (500 m away – Gray Street).

5. Thesen Island

The lagoon contains two islands: Thesen Island (the larger island) and Leisure Island. We drove to both islands and checked out what there is to do there. Thesen Island is home to luxury accommodations, waterways, boats, and plenty of tour operators. Once you reach the island, you’ll pass several restaurants along Long Street, as well as lovely boutique hotels and cafés (tip: Café île de païn). We took a great boat tour there, but more on that later.

The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa, which used to be a power plant, is very stylish. The many old machines, steel columns, and pipes have been lovingly restored and now form the main part of the lobby and restaurant. Be sure to take a look inside; it looks really cool. Also very nice is The Lofts Boutique Hotel*, which is almost across the street. If you’re looking for something to browse, be sure to stop by the Odyssey Café, where you’ll find lots of great little things and, of course, good coffee.

6. Leisure Island

Things are a bit more down-to-earth and cozy over on the small Leisure Island. Here, you’ll find beautiful houses overlooking the lagoon. At Bollards Bay Beach, you can sunbathe or cool off in the water. But be careful! You’ll have to go very far out into the water here, as the water is very shallow but also very warm.

Around the small central island square, you’ll find a variety of facilities. There are, among others, the Coffee Craft café, Nadine’s Corner, and Nonna’s Mediterranean Kitchen. At the “Drop In Surf Skate & Adventure” you can rent a kayak and explore the lagoon on your own. Cool, right?

7. Experience Whales & Dolphins in Knysna

We went on a really great boat tour on our last trip. Although we weren’t there during whale season (May/June – November), we were still able to see and experience a lot on a 2-hour Marine Eco Tour* with the operator Ocean Odyssey. Together with three other guests, we set off from the small harbor on Thesen Islands at around 9:45 a.m. We sailed along the lagoon to the Heads and further out to sea towards Buffels Bay.

On our way, we saw seals in the water and huge caves along the rugged, rocky coast. The skipper stopped repeatedly to provide us with interesting facts and information. But then everything happened very quickly, because a large group of dolphins swam past right next to us. We could hardly believe our eyes! Wow! So many dolphins at once. We’ve never experienced this before in all these years.

If you’re lucky, you might even see one or two Bryde’s whale, as this species of whale lives in the area year-round. We weren’t lucky, but we were absolutely thrilled by the sight of the dolphins. Our skipper skillfully navigated the boat through the waves, always keeping an eye on the animals and the water. We felt very safe and highly recommend this tour. You can book this tour with our long-time partner Manawa. Click here for the Marine Eco Tour*.

Ocean Odyssey has official permission to conduct such tours. In a personal interview, the managing director told us how strict the requirements for such permits are and how expensive they are. At the same time, however, they are extremely important for protecting the environment and the ecosystem. The skippers and guides are trained, have in-depth knowledge of the wildlife and aquatic life, and also know how to behave in open waters. They told us that only 14 tour operators in the entire country have this permit.

8. Knysna in South Africa – Knysna Forest

Directly behind the lagoon city, lush vegetation awaits you in the Knysna Forest. In earlier times, this was primarily used for forestry, which is, of course, anything but good for nature. Fortunately, things are different today; the forest is part of the country’s natural heritage, is part of the Garden Route National Park, and is under special protection.

Wild Knysna elephants are even said to still live here, although they live in seclusion deep in the forest. A beautiful, approximately 1 km long circular path leads leisurely through the forest in the SANP Garden of Eden on the N2. You can find more trails here.

Jubilee Creek Trail (3.6 km)

Circles in the Forest Trail (3.1 to 9 km)

Knysna Forest and Millwood Goldfields (5.3 km)

Drupkelders Hiking Trail (5.6 km)

9. Featherbed Nature Reserve

Directly opposite the Knysna Heads is the Featherbed Nature Reserve, which you can explore on guided tours. After a devastating fire in 2017, almost 20,000 hectares of the region were destroyed. 95% of the reserve was burned, resembling a “rubble field” of rubble and ash. But just a few years later, nature was able to recover and today shines in its most beautiful colors.

You can explore the reserve during a guided 3 to 4-hour excursion. You’ll first cross into the reserve by ferry, then travel by 4×4 to spectacular viewpoints, and continue on foot on a 2.2 km walk through the beautiful natural surroundings. Two tours take place daily, so it’s best to book your spot in advance (book here). Prices start at around €40 per person.

10. Kayak Tours on the Knysna River

How about an exciting kayak tour? Start from the banks of the Knysna River, past high sandstone cliffs and large sandbanks. You’ll make your way upstream through narrow river paths, discover hidden natural pools, and paddle past high rocky gorges and forests.

With a bit of luck, you might even spot vervet monkeys, baboons, bushbucks, and mongooses, as well as numerous bird species, such as the fish eagle, kingfishers, or the colorful feathered turaco. Dune Adventures offers such cool tours. You can find more information on their website.

11. Markets in and around Knysna

We love markets and can’t get enough of the South African markets in particular. There are a few in and around Knysna as well. Highly recommended is the Wild Oats Community Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday in Sedgefield (around 27 km from Knysna). This market offers a fantastic selection of local products, such as fruit, vegetables, snacks, and other homemade delicacies, at more than 60 stalls. The market is ideal for lunch, as you can find really delicious, fresh dishes here.

Another address is the Friday Market in Knysna, which takes place every Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Welbedacht Ln, Knysna). Live music, delicious food from all over the world, a variety of wines and beers, fish dishes, sweets, and a play area for the kids await you. The Harkerville Saturday Market takes place every Saturday (8 a.m. to 12 p.m.) between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. Look forward to handicrafts, a farmers’ market with fruit, vegetables, and baked goods, delicious food (especially breakfast), relaxed music, and a super laid-back atmosphere.

12. The Knysna Gin Distillery

Do you like gin and want to learn more about it? Then head to The Knysna Gin Distillery! The gin, made from nine natural botanicals, is still distilled there in the traditional way using a flame and copper still. Not only will you learn all about the production of their gin, but you can also take part in a gin tasting for just 60 Rand per person (3 gins are included). The crew also creates delicious cocktails on site, which you can also try. We naturally bought the gin as a souvenir for the family.

Beaches around Knysna

The lagoon city is located by the sea, so you can naturally spend many hours on the beaches. Just 14 kilometers from Knysna is the popular resort of Brenton-on-Sea with its long, beautiful Brenton Beach. The drive there is truly breathtaking, as you’ll have a fantastic view of the lagoon from above before heading back down to the beach. Buffels Bay is also a beautiful spot with enough space for everyone. Surfers also love this area.

Excursion tips around Knysna

There’s also plenty to experience around Knysna. In the hinterland rise the Outeniqua Mountains, home to the Outeniqua Nature Reserve. This 38,000-hectare nature reserve is ideal for long hikes and birdwatching. It’s said to be especially beautiful there in spring, from September to October, when the numerous protea and heather blossoms transform the mountain slopes into a colorful sea of flowers.

If you’re in the mood for a scenic treat, you should head to Plettenberg Bay. In the Robberg Nature Reserve, you can enjoy what is arguably the most beautiful hike along the Garden Route. Be sure to visit the seal colony there and the beautiful beaches. A trip to the Tsitsikamma National Park is also not to be missed. More on this in the article.

Cafés and Restaurants in Knysna

You won’t go hungry in Knysna, as a large number of restaurants and cafés await you. You’ll find many of them, especially along the main road N2. At the African Bean you can get delicious coffee and breakfast (e.g., fresh fruit with yogurt and muesli). The île de païn on Thesen Island is also highly recommended. In this cozy restaurant, you can get juicy salads, fresh baked goods (especially the bread!!!), and delicious coffee. We also recommend the East Head Café for lunch and breakfast, the very cool White Washed Café, the Snobs Coffee Roastery, and The Node Knysna with its excellent juices and vegan dishes. Another popular spot and insider tip is The Olive Tree Restaurant on the main street. This small restaurant serves dishes for a more sophisticated palate.

Great Accommodations in Knysna

During our first trip, we stayed in the truly beautiful cottages of the Knysna Abalone Lodge. These wooden cabins are located east of town, and from the balcony, you have a fantastic view of the lagoon. The cabins are equipped with a bed, refrigerator, central heating, kitchenette, bathroom, BBQ area, and seating. It’s only about a 5-minute drive to the town center. You can book your cottage here*.

On our second visit, we had probably the nicest accommodations of our entire trip. We stayed 4 nights at the Maison Mahogany Knysna and didn’t regret it. The Lagoon Studio is very modern and has high-quality furnishings. It features a sleeping area with a large double bed, a bathroom with toilet, shower, and storage space, Wi-Fi, a very well-equipped kitchen, and a terrace with breathtaking views over the entire lagoon. Book the studio here*.

Accommodations we would also book:

Big Tree House Lodge (Book a room here*)

Under Milkwood Resort (Book a room here*)

Forest Valley Cottages (Book a room here*)

Turbine Hotel & Spa (Book a room here*)

The Lofts Boutique Hotel (Book a room here*)

Somervreug Guesthouse (Book a room here*)

Hudson Guesthouse Entabeni Knysna (Book a room here*)

Knysna Hollow Country Estate (Book a room here*)