Attractions in the area

The Ultimate Bucket List – Knysna

Eat at the famous bakery Ile De Pain

A buzzing cafe nestled right in the heart of Thesen Harbour Town. Ile De Pain offers delicious breakfasts, lunches, authentic homemade breads and patisseries. We suggest heading to this chic yet cozy cafe early as the queues build up fast, and rightfully so!

Breakfast & Views at the Iconic Knysna Heads

East Head Cafe dishes out more than just scrumptious breakfasts and lunches. With panoramic views of the Knysna Heads and Knysna Lagoon, this delightful spot has become a local landmark where family and friends can enjoy an exquisite meal.

Your visit at East Head Cafe is best accompanied by a stop at the Heads View Point. A magnificent and picturesque view of the ocean and entire town, locals will tell you it’s the best in town!

Knysna Lagoon Cruise

If Knysna is famous for anything it is our spectacular, sparkling lagoon. A cruise on this magnificent body of water is therefore an absolute must for anyone visiting Knysna. Magic Lagoon Charters offers cruises aboard vintage wooden vessels, including the oldest sailing vessel on African waters!

Our favourite cruising options?

Sunset Sessions at The Lofts

Sip on a delicious cocktail & watch the yachts sail past, whilst moving and grooving to sultry sounds. Knysna isn’t necessarily known for its nightlife but, Sunset Sessions has taken the locals and visitors by surprise, being compared to Camps Bay & European hot spots alike. This event happens every Saturday throughout summer at The Lofts Boutique Hotel. Live DJ from 16:00 & 20:00 & booking is recommended to secure your spot.

Contact our reception on 044 302 5710 to enquire about booking.

Shopping on Thesen Island

A holiday is not complete without finding the perfect souvenir! Find yours at the chic boutiques scattered around Thesen Harbour Town and The Boatshed. From organic, local spices to cashmere scarves, there is most definitely something for everyone to take home and remember their stay in Knysna.

Make sure you check out the following stores:

Walk in the Magical Knysna Forest

Not only does Knysna offer breathtaking seascape views but magnificent forest scenes too. Find peace and serenity on a hike in the Knysna Forest. The sounds of birds, wildlife and the crunch of pine needles beneath your hiking shoes is an unmatched experience and a must for all visitors.

Walk with the Knysna Elephants

A once in a lifetime opportunity to take a walk with one of the most incredible creatures in nature. The Knysna elephants are our resident gentle giants and are sure to offer a memorable experience.

Gin Cocktails & Neapolitan Pizza

The Knysna Distillery & Maillard Bakery in the Knysna industrial area is home to divine craft gin and rustic pizzas – a truly unbeatable combo. This spot is fast becoming Knysna’s favourite Friday night hang out for locals, as well as tourists visiting the area.

Beer Tasting at Red Bridge Brewery

Named after the local Red Bridge spanning the Knysna river, the Red Bridge Brewing Co is a Knysna based micro-brewery specializing in hand-crafted small batch beer. This local gem is definitely worth visiting if you love a cold ‘bezza’.

Go Swim at 'Under Milkwood'

A hidden Gem that only real locals know about. Warm, glassy waters situated amidst the leafy Milkwood trees on the edge of the Knysna Lagoon make this the most spectacular swimming spot in all of Knysna.