Knysna Waterfront

About Knysna Waterfront

The town of Knysna is exquisite, perched conveniently on the Garden Route. It is situated on the banks of a magnificent lagoon, which stretches out to the Indian Ocean at a dramatic point between the towering twin peaks known as The Heads. In the heart of this scenic beauty is the Knysna Waterfront.

Did you know? The Knysna Quays is the residential part of the waterfront, offering accommodation to visitors within the centre of tourist activities.

The Waterfront is a popular hotspot for tourists and locals alike, known and loved for its leisure activities, dining and spectacular views. It is also a shopaholic's delight, as there a number of fabulously unique shops. These range from designer clothing boutiques and jewellery designers to touristy goods and curio shops. There are art galleries, décor shops, and specialty stores to cater to the needs and preferences of just about everyone who visits.

The Knysna Waterfront is also extremely popular for its many restaurants. These include take-away and family-friendly joints, but also comprise classy venues for delicious culinary creations.

Due to Knysna's excellent positioning, fresh seafood is readily available, and can be enjoyed while sipping on a fabulous South African wine and enjoying the breath-taking views of the serene lagoon water.

The waterfront is also the departure point for a number of yachts and cruising vessels that take visitors out on the lagoon and showcase the splendour of the Western Cape. Simply watching these boats drift on the water while sipping a cold beer is tranquil in itself.

The life-size bronze statue of Bondi is always a treat to see. This English Bulldog was known for visiting Knysna on the HMS Verbena during the 1920's and 1930's. He was a resident on this ship and was loved by its passengers.

However, in 1931, he followed them onto shore and died of heatstroke. They buried him on Thesen Island, and his statue remains as a reminder of this brave ‘sailor'. It can be seen just next to the ferry departure jetty on the western side of the Waterfront in Knysna.