The name Knysna is a Khoi word but its uncertain as to its exact meaning. It could mean 'place of wood', or it could mean 'fern leaves', but its most probable meaning is 'straight down' - an obvious reference to the Heads. Knysna Heads must be the most striking geological feature on the entire southern African coastline.

They flank a deep but potentially treacherous channel through which the sea pours in to flood the wide and breathtakingly beautiful lagoon at the mouth of the Knysna River.

The area is the Garden of Eden: home to elephants, the Knysna seashore, the pansy shell, the brilliantly coloured Knysna loerie, a plethora of waterfowl and forest birds, cultivated and wild coastal oysters, dolphins and whales.

Knysna-ites love their festivals (including an annual oyster festival), their town and their beer. They also love the free Bohemian approach to life prevalent among those who have settled here. 'Outeniqua rust' is a slow, but highly contagious disease that affects virtually all inhabitants. The symptoms are always the same: 'What can't be done today might be done tomorrow.'

Knysna Heads

Knysna's most well known attraction is its Heads - two great sandstone cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon which connects the estuary with the sea. A lookout has been erected on the Eastern Head, commanding spectacular views of the lagoon, Leisure Isle and Knysna. The Western Head is a privately owned nature Reserve - Featherbed.

Knysna Quays

Knysna Quays is a Waterfront Marina development containing some of the most exquisite and highly sought after properties in all South Africa. Easily accessible from the main Town, it boasts a Small Craft Harbour where boats or yachts can be hired or chartered. Ferry trips, fishing boats, adventure sports, scuba diving and whale watching tours operate from here. Many excellent restaurants, coffee shops, breakfast places, specialist shops, craft markets and an Internet Cafe can be found in and around the complex.