A Discovery of Knysna and the Garden Route: A Chance to See Whales, Take in the Beach Scenery, and Relax

Our time in Knysna was one of the most relaxing and scenic parts of our travels through South Africa. The Garden Route is known for its quiet coastal towns, dramatic cliffs, and warm hospitality, and Knysna captured all of that beautifully. It is a place where the ocean meets forested hills, the pace slows down, and the views feel endless.

We spent time exploring the town, walking along the waterfront, and enjoying the calm atmosphere that makes Knysna such a favorite for locals and visitors. The coastline surrounding the area is stunning, with lookout points that provide you a full view of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean. It’s the kind of place where you discover something beautiful simply by stopping the car or stepping outside your hotel.

One of the highlights of our visit was going whale watching. Seeing whales and dolphins in their natural environment is an experience you never forget. We were fortunate to see a group of humpback whales and dolphins splashing and migrating north along the coast. It was peaceful, exciting, and a reminder of how alive the ocean is along the Garden Route. Whale watching alone made Knysna worth the trip.

Beyond the ocean, we enjoyed exploring small shops, eating fresh seafood, and discovering viewpoints where the water stretched all the way to the horizon. The Garden Route is full of quiet gems, and Knysna felt like the perfect starting point to appreciate its beauty. Every stop offered a different perspective, whether it was watching the sunset over the lagoon or standing along the cliffs while waves crashed below.

We were able to take it easy, reconnect with one another, and take in some of the most serene scenery that South Africa has to offer thanks to Knysna and the Garden Route. Every single moment felt inviting and memorable, whether it was doing something as simple as driving along the coast or watching whales. Anyone who enjoys spending time in nature, taking in views of the ocean, and traveling in a relaxed manner while still having a sense of adventure will find this region to be ideal.