Knysna City Guide

The food scene highlights fresh seafood, especially oysters. You'll find local dishes like peri-peri prawns and braai, plus international options. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing. Most places close by 9–10 PM outside peak season.

Nightlife centers on relaxed pubs and live music near the Waterfront. There’s no big club scene.

Developing coffee scene with traditional and specialty cafes, and quality local roasters.

Tipping is expected in restaurants (10-15%), taxis (round up or 10%), and services like hairdressers and petrol attendants (R5-R10).

SIM cards are sold at airports and stores. Major providers include Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, and Telkom. ID registration is required.

The town is clean, especially in tourist areas, with waste pickup and recycling.

Limited late-night options. Some 24-hour petrol station minimarts exist but few after-hours pharmacies or food services.

Large supermarkets carry international products. Fresh produce markets offer local goods. Supermarkets usually open 8 AM to 7–8 PM, shorter on Sundays.

Card payments are widely accepted, but having some cash helps for small purchases or markets.

ATMs from major banks like FNB, Standard Bank, Absa, and Nedbank are available in banks and shopping centers. International withdrawal fees may apply.

Several local schools teach mainly in English and Afrikaans. Oakhill School offers an independent IEB curriculum.

Small, informal digital nomad community. Co-living is rare. Networking happens through local cafes and connections.

Excellent green spaces with city reserves and large surrounding indigenous forests.

Popular running routes along the lagoon, forests, and coast. Running clubs exist and events like the Knysna Marathon take place annually.

Various gyms and sports facilities are available around town.

Tennis courts are available at clubs like Knysna Tennis Club; booking is generally required.

Padel courts are not common in Knysna and would need local inquiry.

Several studios offer various yoga styles with drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

Limited options but some Karate, Taekwondo, and self-defense classes available. English-speaking instructors likely.

No skiing near Knysna; nearest ski areas are far away in South Africa.

Knysna Lagoon is great for kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and sometimes windsurfing. Rentals and guided tours are offered.

Good surfing spots near Buffalo Bay and Plettenberg Bay. Wetsuits are recommended due to cool water.

Opportunities for diving and snorkeling near Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, with equipment rental and certification available nearby.

Knysna has public and private clinics with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like Dis-Chem and Clicks are common.

Tap water meets national standards and is generally safe to drink. Bottled water is an option for taste or caution.

Knysna is great for families with parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly cafes. Attractions include Knysna Elephant Park and Birds of Eden.

Generally accepting town with safe public spaces and progressive local attitudes.

Pet-friendly with suitable accommodations, parks, and vet services. Pet import rules apply.