A Vibrant Hub on the Edge Of The Water
The Knysna Waterfront is a popular destination known for its vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and stunning views over the Knysna Lagoon.
The town, founded in 1825 and declared a magistrate in 1851, developed around the Knysna estuary. The forests surrounding Knysna were one of its biggest commercial resources and exporting timber was one of the main economic industries at the time. Roads were difficult to navigate, and water was the only feasible way to transport wood out of Knysna. With the lagoon providing access to the ocean, Knysna became an ideal place for loading timber onto ships bound for Cape Town and other parts of the world – even though the passage through the Knysna Heads was not for the faint-hearted.
A Waterfront development accessible to all
In the 1990s Transnet decided to commercialise a section of its lagoon-side property and called for proposals in October 1993 for development proposals. The successful tenderer proposed a small craft harbour with moorings for yachts, slip facilities and dry boat storage, a residential marina, a shopping complex and restaurants, and a hotel. The tender also included upgrading the Knysna Yacht Club and restoring the historic station complex as a tourist attraction.
It was a visionary design to create a vibrant commercial and residential area, enhanced by the setting on the water and easy access to enjoy Knysna’s scenic lagoon. Inspired by the Port Grimaud Marine in the Gulf of Saint Tropez, the architects incorporated similar design elements at the Quays. Shop and residential units in different, but complimentary colours. Moorings on your doorstep creating a romantic, relaxed atmosphere with easy access to the water. Public shops and restaurants add to the appeal and a variety of boating excursions offer accessibility to the lagoon for the general public. The Knysna Quays is one of the few residential marines in South Africa that can accommodate yachts.
The retail centre opened late in 1996, and the 4-star Protea Hotel Knysna Quays, the final phase of the development, opened in 1997 with stunning views of the harbour and the lagoon.
Environmental impact
Due to the sensitive ecologic nature of the estuary, special care was taken to lessen the impact on the environment during construction. The developers appointed Allanson Associates (AA) as the Aquatic Ecologists. After an extensive Public Participation process the environmental management report was drawn up and reviewed independently by Dr John Raimondo of African Environmental Solutions.
Dredging was a key part of the building process and suction dredging rather than mechanical dredging was used to minimise the disturbance of the water column. The dredged material was contained in settling ponds, with only acceptable effluent being returned to the lagoon. Surplus dredged material was moved to the local golf course for rehabilitation and landscaping.
The Knysna Quays opened up the waterfront area to various activities beyond boating. Visitors could now enjoy dining, shopping, and recreational activities – all in one place.
The Knysna Waterfront Today
Today, the Knysna Waterfront is one of the town’s main attractions, drawing tourists from around the world. It combines elements of Knysna’s history with modern amenities, offering something for everyone. The marina at Knysna Quays is a focal point, hosting a variety of yachts and boats, which adds to the area’s charm. Visitors can take boat trips on the lagoon, including sunset cruises, or explore the nearby Knysna Heads, two dramatic cliffs at the estuary’s mouth.
Restaurants at the Knysna Waterfront serve fresh seafood and other local delicacies, while shops offer unique arts, crafts, and souvenirs that celebrate the area’s natural beauty and heritage.
Preserving the Legacy
Every effort has been made to ensure that the development and management of the Knysna Waterfront remains sustainable. Environmental concerns are carefully managed, as the lagoon is home to various marine life and birds. The owners, SANParks, local authorities, and the Knysna community are working together to maintain the balance between commercial and conservation.