Things to Do in Knysna: Attractions, Hotels & Tips

Good to Know About Knysna

Knysna, with a population of around 50,000, is one of the largest towns on the Garden Route. It sits pretty much in the middle of the official Garden Route.

The closest towns are Wilderness to the west and Plettenberg Bay to the east.

For many people, Knysna is the most beautiful town on the Garden Route. We see it a little differently — but it’s still an absolute must if you’re driving along the Garden Route.

Fun Fact: The Knysna Forest is home to the last wild elephants on the Garden Route. They’re very shy, though, and you won’t get to see them. Estimates suggest there are only around 5 animals left.
How do you pronounce Knysna?

We’ve heard some entertaining variations over the years. The correct pronunciation is “Neisna” — the “K” is silent.

Top Things to Do in Knysna and the Surrounding Area

Knysna Lagoon

What do you need to know? Knysna sits on a massive lagoon covering 20 square kilometers. It’s even home to a species of seahorse found nowhere else in the world.

Is it worth it? Absolutely — the Knysna Lagoon is the town’s most famous attraction, and since the town wraps right around it, you can’t miss it.

Our tip: The best way to appreciate the full scale of the lagoon is from above. The Knysna Heads offer the best panorama over the water.

Knysna Heads

What do you need to know? The Knysna Heads are two massive cliffs that form a kind of gateway to the lagoon. The British Royal Navy once called this the most dangerous harbor entrance in the world — it’s extremely narrow, and the waves can get seriously big.

Is it worth it? Totally! Taking in the vista over the lagoon from up here is one of the highlights of Knysna. There are several signposted viewpoints on the eastern Head.

Our tip: The East Head Café is a great spot for a meal with one of the best views of the lagoon. You’ll find more details in our restaurant recommendations below.

Knysna Waterfront

What do you need to know? The Waterfront is the tourist hub of Knysna — think countless restaurants, shops, and cafés, similar to the Waterfront in Cape Town, just on a much smaller scale.

Is it worth it? During the day it’s fairly quiet, but if you’re spending the night in Knysna, it’s a great place to head for dinner in the evening.

Thesen Island

What do you need to know? Thesen Island is an artificial island in the middle of the Knysna Lagoon. It’s mostly residential, but there are also a few shops and restaurants.

Is it worth it? Not necessarily a must-see on its own — but some of the best places to stay in Knysna are located here. From the island, you can walk to the Waterfront in about ten minutes.

Our tip: One standout place to stay is the The Lofts Boutique Hotel — very new and seriously stylish.

Boat Trip Through the Knysna Lagoon

What do you need to know? One of the most popular things to do in Knysna is a boat trip through the lagoon. There are plenty of operators and tour styles to choose from.

Is it worth it? A boat trip is probably the most beautiful way to experience the lagoon. If you have the time, definitely do it.

Our tip: Beyond the standard tours, there are also more luxurious options — you sail on a large catamaran and enjoy a traditional South African braai (BBQ) on board, including wine and sparkling wine.

Luxury Boat Trip Including Food

Standard Boat Trip Through the Lagoon

Knysna Elephant Park

What do you need to know? The Knysna Elephant Park is a private animal park home to five elephants. On a visit, you can get fairly close to them and even feed them.

Is it worth it? We think it’s especially worthwhile with kids — for them, it’s a real experience. That said, seeing elephants in the wild on a safari on the Garden Route is far more impressive — for example, at the Addo Elephant Park.

Our tip: We’ve written a detailed review of the Knysna Elephant Park. If you’re on the fence about whether it’s right for you, be sure to check it out.

Knysna Fine Arts

What do you need to know? The Knysna Fine Art Gallery is one of the leading and largest art galleries in South Africa. It hosts regular exhibitions that you can visit free of charge.

Is it worth it? If you’re into art, this is a must-see. We visited many galleries along the Garden Route, and this one was our favorite by a wide margin.

Our tip: You can of course buy any of the artworks — price lists are available. International shipping is more affordable than you’d expect, and it’s fast and reliable.

Visit the Knysna Fine Art Gallery website

Wild Oats Market in Sedgefield

What do you need to know? The Wild Oats Community Farmers Market is the largest weekly market on the Garden Route. It runs every Saturday from 8 AM to 12 PM in Sedgefield — between Knysna and Wilderness, about a 25-minute drive from Knysna.

Is it worth it? We really loved it. The market is genuinely huge, and beyond fresh produce there are loads of food stalls where you can grab something to eat.

Our tip: Have breakfast at the market. Arrive early to beat the crowds and have a better shot at finding a seat.

Plettenberg Bay and Surroundings

What do you need to know? Plettenberg Bay is the next major town to the east — about 30 minutes from Knysna — and it has some seriously impressive attractions, including the stunning Robberg Nature Reserve.

Is it worth it? Plettenberg Bay is one of our absolute favorite spots on the Garden Route and, in our view, an essential stop on any South Africa road trip. If you’re not already planning a longer stay there, at least make it a day trip from Knysna.

Our tip: We’ve put all our advice together in a detailed guide to Plettenberg Bay.

Our tips for Plettenberg Bay

Where to Stay in Knysna

There are many beautiful places to stay in and around Knysna, and plenty of them have lagoon views. For even more accommodation recommendations, head over to our hotel tips for the Garden Route.

Our Top 5 Hotel Picks for Knysna

bWhale Guest House: a family-run property set in lush greenery, a little outside the center. Super cozy with a really good breakfast. Excellent value for money.

Hudson Guesthouse Entabeni: an outstandingly beautiful property with a wonderful view of the lagoon. Large pool, great breakfast — very stylish and simply lovely.

The Lofts Boutique Hotel: stylish hotel on Thesen Island. In addition to standard rooms, there are also large apartments with a kitchen and multiple beds.

Turbine Hotel & Spa: seriously cool hotel on Thesen Island, housed in a former turbine hall. Large pool and great spa treatments.

De View: the name says it all — the lagoon views from the rooms are phenomenal. The hosts are incredibly warm and the breakfast is excellent.

Cafés and Restaurants in Knysna

Knysna definitely doesn’t lack for dining options. Around the Waterfront alone, you have a huge selection to choose from.

That said, there are two spots we’d especially recommend:
Nest Food Bar: A really good restaurant on Thesen Island with a stylish atmosphere. The menu blends regional and international dishes with real flair. Also great for breakfast.

East Head Café: Location, location, location! The view over the Knysna Lagoon is simply unbeatable. The food is good, though not exceptional. There’s also a play area for kids.

Our Verdict on Knysna

Knysna has several highlights that you really shouldn’t skip on a Garden Route trip. For us, it’s definitely one of those places where you should spend at least a day.

That said, Knysna never fully won us over. Even though many people rave about it, we personally liked Wilderness and Plettenberg Bay better.

What made the difference? Good question. Plett and Wilderness felt a bit younger and cooler. Knysna, on the other hand, was more upscale — and maybe a little more reserved.

All in all, though, Knysna South Africa is simply a must when you’re traveling the Garden Route.