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Apartments in Knysna

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Vacation rentals for every style

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Popular amenities for Knysna places to stay

Self check-in
Pet friendly
Gym
BBQ grill
Laptop-friendly workspace

Stay near Knysna's top sights

East Head Café55 locals recommend
île de païn - lunch & breakfast restaurant & artisan bakery45 locals recommend
The Heads17 locals recommend
Pezula Nature Hotel & Spa3 locals recommend
34 Degrees South37 locals recommend
Tapas & Oysters25 locals recommend

Places to stay in Knysna

Guest favorite
Cabin in Knysna
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 523 reviews

Cottage on Lindsay, Hunters Home, Knysna.

Guest favorite
Home in Knysna
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 42 reviews

Breathtaking views in Belvidere Estate, Knysna

Superhost
A wooden patio overlooks a tranquil canal, featuring a seating area with wicker chairs and a table. Potted plants add greenery, while wooden decking leads to a small dock area. Nearby, a house across the water is visible, reflecting the serene setting.
Home in Knysna
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 29 reviews

Peace in Africa

Superhost
Home in Knysna
4.57 out of 5 average rating, 7 reviews

Knysna Holiday Home

Guest favorite
A waterfront view showcases the Drymill Marina Apartments, featuring modern buildings alongside a calm canal. Lush greenery and colorful plants are present in the foreground, while a blue sky dotted with clouds creates a serene atmosphere. A sign indicates the marina's rules, enhancing the location's appeal.
Apartment in Thesen Island
4.8 out of 5 average rating, 233 reviews

Thesen Island, Knysna Lagoon View Apt

Superhost
Home in Knysna
4.76 out of 5 average rating, 421 reviews

C&M Knysna Luxury Self Catering Home

Superhost
Home in Knysna
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 11 reviews

Knysna spacious family home.

Guest favorite
Home in Knysna
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 179 reviews

Relaxed holiday home - Knysna Heads

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Family friendly places to stay in Knysna

Guest favorite
A wooden balcony features two deck chairs, facing a scenic view of the Knysna estuary. Lush greenery surrounds the area, with glimpses of the distant landscape visible under a clear blue sky.
Cabin in Knysna
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 174 reviews

The River Treehouse

Top guest favorite
A panoramic view of the Knysna estuary stretches into the distance, framed by lush green hills. The vibrant blue water glistens under a clear sky, while the distant Outeniqua Mountains create a stunning backdrop.
Condo in Knysna
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 159 reviews

Lagoon View Apartment

Top guest favorite
The villa is situated along tranquil waterways, with a two-story exterior featuring large windows reflecting off the water. Surrounding greenery and a gazebo contribute to the serene environment, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Soft lighting from the afternoon sun enhances the inviting appearance.
Villa in Knysna Thesen Island
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 121 reviews

Fabulous Family Friendly Villa on Thesen Island.

Top guest favorite
A wooden houseboat floats on calm waters, featuring a light blue trim that complements the natural surroundings. The structure includes large windows and a wraparound deck for outdoor enjoyment. Reflections on the water enhance the tranquil setting, with hills and buildings visible in the background.
Boat in Knysna
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 349 reviews

Knysna Houseboat Myrtle

Guest favorite
A spacious room features high wooden beams and large windows that allow natural light to fill the space. A comfortable sofa and two armchairs are arranged around a small table, while a neutral area rug adds warmth to the floor. Decorative accents include a horse figurine on a cabinet.
Loft in Knysna
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 639 reviews

Thesen Harbour Town Apartment

Guest favorite
A comfortable lounge area features a plush gray sofa adorned with patterned cushions. A coffee table is centrally positioned with decorative items. Natural light enters through sliding glass doors, leading to an outdoor space. A stylish floor lamp and framed artwork complement the room's decor.
Condo in Knysna
4.83 out of 5 average rating, 129 reviews

No. 3

Guest favorite
A wooden deck features a small round table surrounded by two wooden chairs, offering a scenic view of lush green hills and the tranquil lagoon in the distance. Bright flowers add color to the landscape, complementing the clear blue sky.
Bungalow in Knysna
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 317 reviews

Collins Cottage in Paradise.

Top guest favorite
The bedroom features a spacious bed with a neutral-colored headboard. Natural light floods the room through sliding glass doors that open to a wooden deck, offering views of the surrounding landscape. Light curtains frame the entrance, and a built-in wardrobe is visible in the background.
Home in Knysna
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 283 reviews

9onPaquita Heads....A TRANQUIL GEM

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Places to stay with jacuzzis in Knysna

Guest favorite
The spacious outdoor patio features comfortable lounge chairs facing the water, adorned with a blue jacuzzi nearby. A shaded area provides relaxation options, while a bridge connecting the islands can be seen in the background. Scenic views of the canals and boats add to the tranquility.
Apartment in Knysna
4.84 out of 5 average rating, 19 reviews

Exotic, North Facing - Mooring, Jacuzzi & Inverter

Superhost
A wooden house is set against a vibrant sky, displaying hues of pink and orange at sunset. Lush greenery surrounds the property, with mountains faintly visible in the distance, enhancing the natural beauty of the landscape.
Home in Sedgefield
4.76 out of 5 average rating, 17 reviews

Artist's mountain retreat with hot tub & 180 views

Guest favorite
A wooden balcony is shown overlooking the ocean, with a large dining table set against a backdrop of lush greenery and gentle hills. The scene captures the transition from day to evening, highlighted by soft sunset hues in the sky.
Cottage in Brenton-on-Sea
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 61 reviews

3 Bedroom Holiday home with sea views & hot tub

Superhost
A forested glamping tent is nestled among trees, featuring a wooden deck with steps leading down. The structure showcases large windows and a sloped roof, blending naturally with the surrounding greenery.
Treehouse in Rheenendal
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 8 reviews

Family Tented Treehouse - Fernhill Guest Farm

Guest favorite
A comfortable living room is presented with large windows offering expansive views of the ocean. Soft seating in shades of blue surrounds a wooden coffee table, and a light rug covers the polished wooden floor. A ceiling fan adds to the relaxed atmosphere.
Home in Brenton-on-Sea
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 64 reviews

Bietjie Brenton Holiday Home (with backup power)

Top guest favorite
A spacious Jacuzzi is situated under a covered area, illuminated by soft blue lighting. Nearby, potted plants enhance the outdoor setting, while a cozy interior space can be glimpsed in the background, creating a relaxing atmosphere for guests.
Farm stay in Karatara
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 28 reviews

Ou Kraal - the tranquil oasis

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a modern, two-story property is illuminated at dusk, highlighting a well-designed facade with light-colored finishes. A welcoming entry is framed by carefully landscaped greenery, while a paved driveway leads to the garage. The house number is clearly displayed on the entrance wall.
Villa in Knysna
5 out of 5 average rating, 17 reviews

Beyond Paradise

Guest favorite
An open-plan kitchen features modern appliances, including a washing machine and oven. Bar stools line a sleek white countertop. Natural light floods the space through large windows with scenic views of the lagoon, and a cozy seating area with a sofa is nearby.
Bungalow in Knysna
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 46 reviews

5* Bungalow2•Views•hottub•Wifi•Central Location

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Quick stats about vacation rentals in Knysna

  • Total rentals

    1.7K properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $10 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    43K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    950 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    230 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    670 properties have a pool

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.

  • How much does it cost to stay in bed and breakfast rentals in Knysna?

    Experience the best of Knysna with our bed and breakfast rentals, starting at about $30 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.

  • Are there bed and breakfast rentals with a dedicated workspace in Knysna?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 20 bed and breakfast rentals in Knysna featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

Destinations to explore