Discovering Knysna – Lakes, Rivers, Beaches and Lagoons

Both leisure travelers and nature lovers can enjoy a multitude of outdoor experiences along Knysna’s varied lakes, rivers, beaches and lagoons. This coastal jewel offers something for everyone to discover, from the serene lagoon and verdant estuaries to the rocky beaches and breathtaking lakes.

In addition to being beautiful, these waterways offer many opportunities for exciting sports, including swimming, fishing, boating, sailing, skiing, paddling, and more. Many are under the control of Cape Nature or SANParks, and some activities require permits.

The serene lakes and lagoon provide an ideal environment for fishing, leisurely excursions, and cool plunges in the crystal-clear waters. The fascinating water playgrounds in Knysna offer guests both calm seclusion and a heart-pounding thrill.

The Tranquil Knysna Lagoon

A popular spot for fishermen looking for a variety of fish species and breathtaking natural beauty is the Knysna Lagoon, which is tucked away along South Africa’s charming Garden Route. Both shore-based and boat-based fishing are very popular in this tidal estuary. Learn about the variety of habitats, a wealth of species, and easy access to fishing that make this estuary a must-see location for any serious fisherman.

Though a lagoon is usually shallow and has slow water movement, the Knysna lagoon, which the town is constructed around, is actually an estuary. Its primary feeder, the Knysna River, runs from the Knysna Heads to Charlesford Weir, including an area of roughly 1,633 hectares. The estuary’s widest point is around 3 kilometers, and the Knysna River is located at The Heads.

Surrounded by rich flora, the Knysna Lagoon is a tranquil body of water that receives its nourishment from the Knysna River. It is home to a variety of marine and avian species and is perfect for water-based sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Boat rides around the lagoon offer a unique view of the surroundings. You may take in the breathtaking scenery and tranquil atmosphere while learning about the history, ecology, and local species from knowledgeable guides.

The Lush Knysna Estuary

A habitat with an abundance of biological life is the Knysna Estuary. Discover a range of bird species and other wildlife in their native environments as you kayak or walk through the complex system of wetlands and rivers.

The estuary environment is connected by miles of hiking routes. Get a deeper awareness of the region’s delicate ecology by losing yourself in the peaceful splendor of the forests and wetlands.

Rugged Knysna Beaches

A variety of sandy beaches and rocky outcroppings can be found throughout the Knysna coastline, making it the perfect place to swim, beachcomb, and breathe in the clean ocean air. Watch as the waves smash against the striking rocks, displaying their force.

Try your hand at beach fishing and see what the ocean has to offer, wander down the coastline and explore the rocky coves and tidal pools, or simply relax and enjoy the salty sea air on Knysna’s immaculate beaches.

Discover the Knysna Lakes

Knysna has a number of tranquil lakes inland from the shore. Take a break from the daily grind by lounging by the water’s edge or exploring the nearby woodlands and trails.

Cast a line and go fishing for trout and other freshwater fish, take a refreshing bath in the cool, clear waters of the Knysna Lakes, or take a leisurely kayak or canoe ride around the lakes.

Experience the Knysna Rivers

Take a river cruise or a boat ride along the calm Knysna River, search for secret bathing holes and swim in the serene waters, or go fly fishing and attempt to capture some of the river’s valuable catch.

The breathtaking Noetzie River travels through kilometers of native forest east of Knysna before reaching the Noetzie beach. The Khoisan Noetziekamma gets its name from the word “dark waters.” It refers to the tannins that give the water a deep amber color and are released into the water by the ancient trees that border the river’s banks.

The river and estuary provide excellent swimming and paddling conditions in their warm waters, and they are also a birder’s delight.

The unique Groenvlei Lake, part of the Goukamma Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area, is situated between Knysna and Sedgefield. The only way to connect to the sea is underground, and there are no rivers that flow into it. It is home to six species of fish, including two native and four foreign species. 

Before flowing into an estuary close to Buffalo Bay Wildside Beach, the Goukamma River passes through the Goukamma Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area to the west of Knysna.

The reserve boasts a wide variety of intriguing environments as well as a wealth of smaller animals, fish, and birds. Additionally, it is a World Heritage Site. A beautiful paddle up the river past farmlands with good bird views is possible with canoes and pedal boats that are available for rent in the reserve.

Situated just outside Sedgefield, Swartvlei Lake is the longest and deepest of the several lakes in the Wilderness National Park and is a popular destination along the Garden Route. It’s fantastic for fishing and has a wide diversity of bird species. Swartvlei Lake is open to the sea for six months of the year, and the river mouth typically opens and closes on its own.

The Wilderness Lakes—Elandsvlei, Langvlei, and Rondevlei—are declared Ramsar Sites and recognized as valuable wetland areas further west near Cape Town.

Knysna serves as the ideal setting for a revitalizing swim, with its tranquil lagoons and tumbling waterfalls. The tranquil, safe waters of Knysna Lagoon are perfect for kayaking, swimming, and other water sports. Lagoons to cascading waterfalls, Knysna provides the perfect backdrop for a refreshing and rejuvenating swim.

See below some activities to book when in Knysna:

Knysna: Sunset Lagoon Cruise

Knysna: 75-Minute Lagoon Boat Cruise

Knysna: Wine & Oyster Luxury Lounger Sunset Cruise

Knysna: Knysna Lagoon Pontoon Boat Cruise

Knysna Lagoon Educational Oyster & White Wine Tasting Cruise

75 Minute Knysna Lagoon Charter

From Thesen Island: Knysna Lagoon Luxury Cruise

Knysna Kayak Hire

Knysna Stand Up Paddle Board Hire

Knysna Lagoon Fishing Charter

The Water Club Pontoon Private Cruise

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