Things to do in Knysna

No. 7 of Cool Water Escapes in South Africa

Knysna River

Knysna Riveris an estuary lagoon connected to the Indian Ocean, located next to the town of Knysna along the Garden Route in South Africa. At high tide, the water is vast and calm, resembling a giant mirror. As the tides change, sandbars are exposed in some areas, subtly altering the shoreline. Two headlands facing each other extend toward the center of the lagoon, causing the wide water surface to narrow abruptly here, forming a natural channel that connects the inner lagoon to the open sea. The headlands not only shape the unique spatial layout of the lagoon area but also act as a natural barrier, blocking some of the Indian Ocean's waves and keeping the waters inside relatively calm. Therefore, compared to the open sea, the interior of the lagoon is more suitable for water activities, with boat tours, kayaking, and sunset cruises all concentrated in this area. During the voyage, you can observe the natural view composed of the shoreline, headlands, and the open lagoon from the water.

Knysna Heads

Knysna Heads are two sandstone headlands facing each other where the Knysna River flows into the Indian Ocean. The east and west headlands flank the outlet from the lagoon to the open sea, with calm lagoon waters inside and crashing waves outside, creating a coastal view of both tranquility and motion. The channel at the head is narrow and the tides are swift, and ships surveying the waterway in the early 19th century encountered danger here. In the shallow waters of Fountain Point on the east side, you can still see the wreckage of the Paquita, which contrasts with the steep cliffs. The tour mainly focuses on the eastern headland. The observation deck at the summit offers an overlook of the lagoon and distant mountains, as well as the vast Indian Ocean. Walking along the trail below the cliffs, you can observe the shipwreck remains up close. The nearby small bay is shaded by milkwood trees, and the water is relatively clear, making it suitable for snorkeling and fish watching. You can also take a boat through the lagoon and the head to admire the cliffs on both sides from the water. The western headland belongs to a private nature reserve and requires a guided tour to access. The currents at the head are swift, so swimming is not recommended except in designated areas.

Wild Oats Community Farmers' Market

Knysna Lagoon

Knysna Lagoon is a beautiful seawater lake and one of the larger coastal lakes in South Africa. The attraction is surrounded by mountains, with vast waters and countless islands and inlets at its center, creating a breathtaking lake view. The shoreline is covered by a unique coastal forest, which is also part of the Knysna Lagoon Nature Reserve.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Eastern Cape

The Garden Route

The Garden Routeis a highly iconic scenic route, stretching from Mossel Bay in the west to the Storms River area of Tsitsikamma in the east, with a total length of about 300 km. The route features a mild climate and abundant rainfall, with mountains and the coast remaining lush and green all year round. Forests, lagoons, lakes, estuaries, and beaches are interspersed throughout, creating distinct natural scenery. Most of the roads at this attraction run parallel to the coastline. While driving, you can see golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and dense forests along the coast on one side, and the mountainous backdrop formed by the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma mountains on the other. As the road continues forward, the mountain and sea views constantly change, making it especially suitable for parking at any time during a self-drive trip to enjoy the natural scenery. The natural scenery facilities along the route mainly consist of forest trails, coastal exploration routes, and viewing areas.

Buffalo Bay Beach

East Head View Point

Pezula Championship Golf Course

Pezula Championship Golf Course is located in South Africa. It features beautiful scenery and a pleasant climate. Beyond its vast green spaces and the fun of playing golf, visitors can also taste local cuisine and enjoy the beautiful views.

Goukamma Nature Reserve

The Motorcycle Room

The Motorcycle Room is a specialty museum dedicated to exhibiting and collecting motorcycles. It features a wide range of motorcycles from different types and eras, including classic vintage motorcycles, custom motorcycles, and modern high-performance models. Visitors can admire the aesthetic design, craftsmanship, and technological evolution of these machines. The museum's exhibits include work from motorcycle brands and manufacturers around the world, including Harley-Davidson, BMW, Ducati, and more. You can see these motorcycles up close to learn about their history and the stories behind them, and to understand the cultural influence motorcycles have in different countries and regions, as well as the spirit of adventure and freedom they represent. In addition to exhibitions, The Motorcycle Room regularly holds motorcycle events and meetups that attract enthusiasts and community members.