Vacation rentals in Knysna

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Popular amenities for Knysna vacation rentals

Stay near Knysna's top sights

East Head Café197 locals recommend
île de païn - lunch & breakfast restaurant & artisan bakery151 locals recommend
The Heads143 locals recommend
Pezula Nature Hotel & Spa4 locals recommend
34 Degrees South120 locals recommend
Tapas & Oysters119 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Knysna

  • Total rentals

    1.6K properties

  • Total number of reviews

    39K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    890 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    230 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    640 properties have a pool

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    690 properties have a dedicated workspace

Your guide to Knysna

All About Knysna

Located in the Western Cape region of South Africa, the coastal town of Knysna boasts rugged wilderness offset by modern attractions. A popular stop along the famous Garden Route, the area features dramatic sandstone cliffs plunging into turquoise waters. While much of the coastline is dominated by sheer cliffs, the Knysna River forms a lagoon with several sandy beaches, perfect for swimming or a sunset stroll. The lagoon is also home to a large harbor, where anglers queue up for fishing charters and the chance to reel in spotted grunter and spiny butterfly rays. Further inland, dense tropical forests paint the landscape, providing cover for a variety of indigenous plants and animals, from African leopards and chameleons to warblers and woodpeckers.

A city with a vibrant arts and crafts scene, Knysna is a great place to shop for handcrafted furniture and housewares. The town’s craft market specializes in carved wooden bowls and utensils, stone figurines, textiles, and beaded jewelry — generally at a fraction of the cost you’d pay in the bigger cities. Along the waterfront, you’ll find a handful of boutiques, art studios, and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood with unbeatable views.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Knysna

Before booking your Knysna accommodation, remember that South Africa is in the Southern Hemisphere, which means seasonal variations and weather patterns are the opposite of those in North America. Although the town’s pleasant weather makes it a suitable destination year-round, the best time to visit is between February and April. The mild autumn climate makes this the perfect time to hike the many trails surrounding the town, and it’s still warm enough to enjoy the beach and waterfront. Autumn also corresponds with many of the artistic and cultural celebrations of the area, including the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras and Arts Festival, an unmissable annual LGBTQ+ Pride carnival and parade through the town. Winters remain warm, and in July, the 10-day Oyster Festival celebrates the region’s cuisine and culture with seafood, boat tours, and sporting events.


Top things to do in Knysna

Knysna Lagoon

Knysna Lagoon is home to exquisite marine life and innumerable species of birds, not to mention spectacular views of the water and the mountains that surround the town. You can take a tour of the lagoon to get a closer look, or charter a boat and spend the day lounging on the water. Some cruises offered at the waterfront provide gourmet meals and live musical performances.

Buffalo Bay

Buffalo Bay, or Buffelsbaai, is a tiny seaside village not far from Knysna that is home to one of the area’s best beaches. Secluded and relatively sheltered, the bay is known for its soft golden sand and safe swimming conditions. There are plenty of tidepools to explore, and you may even see an iguana or two on the beach, or a dolphin or whale out at sea. There are a couple of excellent restaurants in the village worth a visit before heading back to Knysna.

Thesen Islands

A visit to Knysna isn’t complete without a trip to Thesen Islands, a collection of 19 artificial islands in the Knysna River. Paddle from cafes and art galleries to charming boutiques as you immerse yourself in the artistic beauty of the region. If you’re lucky, you may even get a glimpse of the tiny Knysna seahorse, an endangered species that is only found in three estuaries near Knysna.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Knysna?

    Knysna enjoys a mild oceanic climate year-round. Summers typically range from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 80°F) with occasional rainfall, while winter temperatures range between 8°C and 20°C (46°F to 68°F) with more frequent rain.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Knysna?

    Knysna is a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors often enjoy exploring Knysna Elephant Park, taking a boat tour on the Knysna Lagoon, or visiting Featherbed Nature Reserve. The Knysna Waterfront is also frequently suggested for its array of shops and restaurants.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Knysna?

    The most popular time to visit Knysna is during the warm summer months of November to March. During this time, the town hosts the famous Knysna Oyster Festival, usually held in June or July, which attracts many visitors with its fun-filled activities and delicious local cuisine.

  • What are the best places to stay in Knysna?

    Leisure Isle, Thesen Islands, and Paradise are popular areas for travelers in Knysna. Leisure Isle offers serene lagoon views and tranquil atmosphere, Thesen Islands is well-known for its bustling hub of shops and restaurants, and Paradise provides panoramic town and lagoon views.

  • What are the best places to visit in Knysna?

    Knysna has an array of appealing places to explore, such as the stunning Knysna Heads, the vibrant Knysna Waterfront, and the peaceful Featherbed Nature Reserve. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Knysna Elephant Park is a frequently suggested spot.

  • What are some hiking trails in Knysna?

    In Knysna, you can explore the Jubilee Creek Hiking Trail that takes you through a lush forest to a sparkling creek. Another popular option is the Terblans Nature Walk, which winds through the indigenous forest presenting an opportunity to encounter rich birdlife.

  • What are some family activities to do in Knysna?

    Families can explore Knysna Elephant Park, where they can learn about these fascinating creatures. Another frequently suggested activity is a ferry ride on the Knysna Lagoon, enjoying the stunning natural beauty around. Visit the Knysna Heads for panoramic views, or explore the Featherbed Nature Reserve for a fun day filled with hiking and birdwatching. Lastly, don't miss out on visiting the Knysna Cycle Works, where the family can rent bicycles and explore the town at their own pace.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Knysna?

    You might like to consider exploring the Tsitsikamma National Park, which is roughly 80km (50 miles) from Knysna. It's known for its coastal scenery and diverse birdlife. Plettenberg Bay, located 33km (20 miles) away, is another frequently suggested day trip destination, with beautiful beaches to enjoy.

  • Do villa rentals in Knysna have self check-in?

    Absolutely! We offer over 10 villa rentals with self check-in in Knysna. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Are there private suite rentals with a dedicated workspace in Knysna?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 40 private suite rentals in Knysna featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

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