The Garden Route
Lagoon Luxury and Coastal Splendour
Nestled between lush forests and sparkling water, Knysna is the jewel of South Africa’s Garden Route, but the magic doesn’t stop at the lagoon. Stretching west to Plettenberg Bay, Sedgefield, and Wilderness, and east to the Tsitsikamma National Park, this region is a paradise of coastal forests, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches. Adventure, wildlife, and gourmet delights await at every turn, from kayaking through hidden inlets to whale watching along the coast.
Knysna combines tranquil indulgence and adventure – every vista is a photograph, every meal a taste of local bounty, and every day a new experience.
INSIDER SECRETS
Unmissable Experiences & Activities
Knysna Lagoon & the Waterfront
The lagoon is perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or taking a guided cruise. Sunset cruises offer unparalleled views of the Knysna Heads, twin cliffs guarding the lagoon’s mouth. Explore waterfront shops, cafés, and artisan boutiques for local crafts and souvenirs.
Knysna Forest & Adventure
Walk or cycle the Knysna Forest, spotting birds, hidden waterfalls, and forest wildlife. For thrill-seekers, try forest ziplining or guided nature walks through this ancient indigenous forest.
Wildlife Experiences
- Elephant Sanctuary – Located just outside Knysna, guests can observe rescued elephants in a natural setting, learn about conservation, and even participate in feeding and walks under expert supervision.
- Wolf Sanctuary – Dedicated to rescued wolves and other endangered species, this sanctuary offers guided tours to learn about predator behaviour, conservation efforts, and rehabilitation programmes.
- Plettenberg Bay Wildlife – Includes Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, and seasonal whale watching (June – November) along the coast, with spectacular displays of Southern right and humpback whales.
Plettenberg Bay & Coastal Adventures
Walk the Robberg Nature Reserve trails, kayak on the bay, or explore hidden beaches. The area is perfect for both relaxation and adventure, with guided nature and wildlife experiences available.
Sedgefield & Farmers Market
Known as the “Garden Route Slow Town”, Sedgefield hosts a vibrant Saturday Farmers Market – fresh produce, artisanal foods, crafts and live music. It’s ideal for a leisurely morning before exploring beaches, lagoons, or forest walks.
Tsitsikamma National Park & Coastal Thrills
Adventure awaits with stormy cliffs, suspension bridges, and coastal forests. Walk the Storms River Mouth suspension bridge, kayak the river, or try ziplining, abseiling, and canopy tours. The coastal hikes reveal dramatic cliff-top views over the Indian Ocean.
Wilderness & Outdoor Adventure
Wilderness National Park offers hiking, canoeing, and scenic viewpoints along rivers and lagoons. The beaches here are perfect for long walks, while estuaries attract birdwatchers and photographers.
Golf & Leisure
Golfers can enjoy scenic courses like Pinnacle Point Estate and Knysna Golf Club, where fairways are surrounded by lagoons, forests, and fynbos – blending sport with natural beauty.
Pinnacle Point Estate
Address: 194 Mossel St, D`Almeida, Mossel Bay, 6506.
Knysna Golf Club
Address: Howard St, Hunters Home, Knysna, 6570.
EAT & DRINK
The North Coast’s dining scene blends fresh coastal seafood with international flavours and contemporary elegance:
34 South
Modern cuisine with stunning lagoon views at the Knysna Waterfront.
Address: Shop 19 Knysna Waterfront, Knysna Central.
Tel: 044 382 7331
East Head Café
Casual fine dining at the Knysna Heads, ideal for sunset dinners.
Address: 25 George Rex Dr, The Heads, Knysna.
Tel: 044 384 0933
Ile de Pain
Famous artisanal bakery and café serving gourmet breakfasts, pastries, and lunches with world-class coffee.
Address: Thesen Island, Knysna.
Tel: 044 302 5707
The Lookout Deck
Seafood platters to be savoured while overlooking the bay.
Address: Hill St, Lookout Beach, Plettenberg Bay.
Tel: 044 533 1379
Emily Moon River Lodge Restaurant
Farm-to-table dining with stunning river views in a tranquil setting.
Address: Rietvlei Road, Plettenberg Bay.
Tel: 044 501 2500
The Girl’s Restaurant
Fine dining with forest views in the heart of Wilderness.
Address: The Square, 1 Owen Grant St, Wilderness.
Tel: 044 877 0445
Sedgefield Farmers Market
Fresh pastries, artisanal coffee, local produce, crafts, and live music on weekends.
Address: N2, Sedgefield.
Tel: 082 376 5020
Woodmill Lane Lifestyle Market
Gourmet snacks, craft beers, and artisan treats in a relaxed market atmosphere.
Address: Main Street, Knysna.
Tel: 044 382 3045
Host Information
Lives in
Knysna
Languages
Afrikaans
Favourite song in high school
Chris Brown – Forever
Fun fact
““I like to talk to people and make jokes.””
My biography title would be
The Energizer: Productivity, Purpose, Passion.
About ME
“I’m a happy, warm-hearted person who loves helping others and being kind. I have a deep love for Knysna. I’m a proud mom to my five-year-old daughter, who means everything to me, and I share my life with two pets who keep me busy. I’ve also been with my partner for six wonderful years.”
Likes
Animals, art, board games, bowling, building things, camping, canoeing, card games, cars, climbing, cocktails, cycling, dance, darts, design, dodgeball, fashion, field hockey, fishing, food, gardening, golf, gymnastics, hair, hiking, kayaking, live music, live sports, makeup, motor sports, movies, museums, nightlife, outdoors, photography, plants, playing music, puzzles, rugby, self-care, shooting sports, shopping, singing, soccer, spa, table tennis, tennis, theatre, track & field, travel, TV, video games, volunteering, walking, weight lifting and wine.
