Knysna is located in the south of South Africa, halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. The area is known for its hot summers and the not too cold winters, so it’s the perfect place for year-round travel. Whilst you’re there, try some of the amazing food options, including the East Head Cafe with its amazing African food, and Le Maquis with some French food! If you’re after the best nature picks, why not check out the Knysna Heads as well as some hikes, including Tsitsika and Gericke’s Point?
If you’re eager to visit the area and experience it for yourself, check out the best Airbnb vacation rentals in Knysna, South Africa.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 18, 2025.
1. Modern rental in a great location (from USD 42)
Escape to this contemporary rental offering a charming and comfortable retreat for your getaway. With its garden, convenient amenities, and proximity to attractions, it provides a delightful experience for guests.
Located just 3 km (1.86 mi) from the waterfront and Knysna, this unit guarantees easy access to the vibrant atmosphere. A mere five-minute drive will take you to The Knysna Heads where you can witness breathtaking natural beauty. For beach lovers, Buffalo Bay Beach is a 25-minute drive away, offering a sandy shore and tranquil waters to enjoy.
In addition, golf enthusiasts will be pleased to know that there are world-class courses within a 10-minute drive from the property.
Top guest reviews
Host:
lovely host with friendly dogskind regards gareth and carmenvery friendly and helpful hostsexcellent attention to detail by the hostsowen was such a kind and friendly hostLocation:
wonderful location & cute little cottagenicely located calm and peacefulbeautiful flat great location and value for moneyaway from the noise and close to the knysna heads as well as all the nice restaurantswhat a serene and beautiful locationCleanliness:
place was clean and well donevery clean beautifully decorated and tastefulvery neat and clean accommodationvery quiet clean cottage with a safe place to park your carRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
would have loved to have an iron thoughquiet surrounds great wifi and great to be able to watch netflix felt like homethe cottage is incredibly comfortable with many little touches that made it just wonderfulwe felt comfortable at all times
2. Pezula Magic Retreat (from USD 271)
This spacious four-bedroom house is where breathtaking views of Knysna Lagoon await. Other than ample space and luxurious interiors, this stay offers a private patio, an outdoor dining area for alfresco dining, and a lavish spa tub. You can even ask the staff to prepare your breakfasts as long as you’re willing to provide ingredients.
Up the street from the house, you’ll find tennis courts and jungle gyms, providing entertainment options for both adults and children. After playtime, settle down in front of the rental’s TV with streaming access.
Top guest reviews
Host:
wonderful property and a wonderful hostvanessa was a great host she attended quickly to all our requestsbest both in terms of what the house offers and also the kindness and helpfulness of the hostvanessa was a great host and quickly resolved any issues/queriesone of the best homes on the estate and one of the best hosts tooLocation:
great location with an absolute tranquil settingCleanliness:
not forgeting to mention the punctuality cleanliness friendliness and honesty of the 2 cleaning ladiesRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the house is top notch with lovely views and first class facilitiesbeautifully furnished comfortable & spacious home in pezula estate with stunning sunsets vanessa was a very responsive host
3. Beautiful studio apartment for two (from USD 45)
This spacious studio apartment has room for up to two people. The studio is linked directly to the garden - you’re going to want to step outside the moment you wake up! You have a small kitchenette to cook up quick meals, and the hosts leave all the basics you may need to feel at home. As well as the kitchen, there’s also a braai (barbeque) in the garden. The apartment is located in the centre of the town, in a neighbourhood known as Paradise, so you can easily fill your time with all the popular things to do in Knysna.
Top guest reviews
Host:
friendly host and hostessthe hosts were a delighthosts are super friendlymark was a great hostcan see that the owners love people by the way they run their placeLocation:
the location was greatperfect location and equipment and very close from the water fronti‘d also recommend staying min 2 night to enjoy the amazing location to the fullestthe place is beautiful and close to amenitiesour time at mark’s and liz’ place was amazingCleanliness:
clean place with amazing touchesclean and crisp space with homely touchesthe room is very tidy and cleanit was very clean and we didn’t expect a filled fridgeeverything is sparkling clean we didn’t miss anythingRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
stunning views from our downstairs apartmenthigh points: spectacular view loving decor and cozy atmospherethe wifi was a bit spotty but we weren't there to work :) highly recommended thanks guysalso the view from the room was amazing aesthetically the property was very pleasingwe really enjoyed our stay at mark and liz‘ apartment
4. Family-friendly suite (from USD 51)
Enjoy beautiful views over the bay by staying in this monthly rental in Knysna. There’s room for up to four guests, with both a queen bed and a bunk bed, making it the perfect house for a young family to stay in.
The hosts provide all the home comforts you’ll need to enjoy your stay, which is perfect for when you’re arriving with kids. The apartment has off-street parking and a housekeeper who can do your laundry for a small additional charge.
Top guest reviews
Host:
hosts were really helpfulthe hosts were friendly and helpfulthe hosts are very accommodating and fulfill all special requeststhey are super friendly and courteous hoststhey are really nice hosts with great tips and had always time for a little chatLocation:
the location is nice and close to waterfront (5-10 min driving)truly a home away from home a stunning place to stay with literally everything you need and morewe loved staying at mark and liz' placeit was a pleasure to stay at mark and liz's placewe had a great time at mark and liz placeCleanliness:
the place is spotless cleanthe room is clean and decorated beautifullythe room was very clean and got all you needthe place was very clean and we love the decor as wellthis place was awesome it was super safe clean cozyRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the view was amazing and the room was perfektthe amenities was amazing a specially the breakfast goodiesbreakfast was good and sea view was nicethe room consists of the most comfortable bed and also a set of bunk bedsamazing personal touches such as breakfast in the fridge filter coffee and snacks
5. Centrally located retreat (from USD 64)
Enjoy this waterfront Airbnb rental in Knysna that looks straight over the Quays, the perfect place to hitch a ride and enjoy the water. The apartment is only a ten-minute walk away from Thesen Island and has plenty of fine dining options.
You have a first-floor bedroom, with plenty of storage and an en-suite, as well as amazing views from your balcony. You share the main living spaces with the host, who is always around to give you suggestions about what to do in the local area.
Top guest reviews
Host:
amazing host with incredible hospitalityyou were one amazing hosthenry is a very nice hosta friendly knowledgeable and caring hosthenry is a wonderful hostLocation:
lovely location and neighbourhoodhis place is really well located and almost everything is within walking distancegood location for bars and restaurantsa lovely room in a perfect locationthe place is so beautiful and perfectly locatedCleanliness:
very clean and friendlythe room was clean and nicecomfy bed and very clean and tidythe room was super clean and we truly didn't lack anythinghis place was very clean and centrally locatedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the room has a great view of the quayyou get a lovely big bed with an amazing view on a balconysplendid room with private balcony overlooking the waterwayshenry has a fantastic room with a fantastic view and henry himself is perfect hostthe room was very clean and had an awesome view directly at the knysna quays
6. Escape for two with amazing views (from USD 111)
This beautiful escape is located about the Knysna lagoon - the views from the living room are just amazing. There’s one bedroom, with a double bedroom. There’s also an open planned kitchen and a living room, as well as a spacious bathroom. The hosts are located on the property, so they can give you all the advice you need. They can also organise day trips for you, so you can see more of the area. The hosts will service the apartment every few days. Enjoy the outside deck, as well as the barbecue.
Top guest reviews
Host:
our host was amazingshe was a gracious host and took good care of usvery nice host and humble peoplethanks to the wonderful host christinegreat stay with a great hostLocation:
christine’s cottage is located just out of the center of town and is a perfect locationclose to all the tourist attractions in knysna and surrounding areacollins cottage is perfectly situated offering quiet but being close to the waterfrontit's super comfortable and at a very convenient locationgood location in knysna and she gave us some good recommendationsCleanliness:
accommodation is clean and neatchristines places is really nice and cleana beautiful perfectly clean placeit is spotlessly clean and the fittings are stylishthe cottage is beautiful clean and well equippedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
very lovely view great views not enough room for two unless you're a couplenice apartment with a beautiful viewbeautiful private apartment with a great viewthe views are amazing and the bed is super comfyshe even had a usb hub and converts for our electronics which was a huge plus
7. Private accommodation with views of the lagoon (from USD 43)
If you’re after a stay that’s private and cheap, this Airbnb unit in Knysna will be perfect for you. This beautiful private apartment has room for two guests. There’s a large double bed, and a spacious bedroom, with everything you may need to make yourself feel at home. There’s also a small bathroom and a kitchenette. The hosts live next door and can do your laundry for a small additional cost. You’re close to the centre of town, which is perfect if you don’t want to cook during your stay! The house is full of everything you need for your stay - whether you think you need it or not!
Top guest reviews
Host:
good recommendations from the ownersmark and liz were wonderful hostsmark and liz were great hostsmark and liz were fantastic hostsvery welcoming and accommodating hostsLocation:
the location was easy to find and very close to central townbeautiful room in a beautiful locationmark and liz's place is everything any guest would wish for and morejust a cute little place to experience the beauty of knysnawill definitely be back and recommend this place for the perfect weekend awayCleanliness:
comfortable and clean bedapartment was modern and very cleanit was extreme clean and well equippedthe studio was so clean and well equippedabsolutely stunning stylish and clean placeRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
very comfortable accommodation with great viewsnice and cosy room with a nice view at the lagoonon top of this the room is generously stocked with snacks coffee etcgreat value for money awesome view and apartment5 stars are not enough*****the apartment is the perfect place to visit knysna
8. Most affordable cottage with an outdoor deck (from USD 43)
The highlight of this Airbnb accommodation in Knysna is the beautiful outdoor deck, with amazing views over the water, with the birdsong in the background. You have your own private entrance to the property as well as two bedrooms. The first bedroom has a double bed, and the second has two singles, making the property the perfect escape for a family or two couples.
There’s also a sofa bed in the living room. There’s also a large kitchen, which is perfect to try out some of the best of the local produce. The cottage has an alarm, which is linked to a security company, so you do have to worry about your safety whilst you’re there.
Top guest reviews
Host:
friendly and helpful hostspaul was very welcoming and a great hostwonderful hosts and a gem homepaul is an amazing host and he gave us his hospitality and helppaul was very kindLocation:
good location out of townwe loved the location its just beautifulbeautiful cosy cabin situated in a calm area of knynsanice and close to knysna headsyou will find peace at this placeCleanliness:
very clean and comfortablewell equipped clean and comfortablea wonderful spacious home clean and all needs fully coveredit was very neat and clean and everything was as described and shown on the picturesplace was clean has a private entrance and is great value for moneyRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the apartment was amazing with a large balconygreat cozy place with a nice view of knysna perfect place for two couples or parents with kidsthe cottage is comfortable well equipped and offers a very nice terrasse with good viewthe cottage was cosy and comfortable in a peaceful neighborhoodnice people kids would have loved wifi shame
9. Historical house with access to a heated pool (from USD 35)
Enjoy one of the first homes built in Knysna - this house was built in the early 1800’s! There’s room for up to four guests in this self-contained flat. There’s a large bedroom with a double bed, and a sofa bed in the living room. The house is full of original features, with wooden floors and high ceilings, which you’re going to fall in love with. There’s plenty of security around the house as well as a beautiful outside verandah. You’re close to the main hotel in town, which has a heated pool, and gym facilities that you can use.
Top guest reviews
Host:
the hosts are very friendlyetienne is a great hostetienne is a friendly helpful hosthost is very helpful with all your needsetienne is a brilliant hostLocation:
great location very safeconvenient cute and well located ;close to some restaurants at the docks and the beautiful islandamazing place at a perfect location in knysnastunning place walking distance to everything in townCleanliness:
very clean and spacioussparkling clean and every thing you needit was extremely clean and cozy and comfortablethe venue was clean and fully equippedvery clean neat excellent valueRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
there is a comfortable bed tv wifi and a private outdoor areatwo slept in the private bedroom and i slept on the couch (very comfortable)michelle and etienne were greatcomfy bed and great amenitieswe loved the electric bed michelle gave us a lot of informations very helpfulthe space is comfortable & has everything you need
10. Perfect apartment for two
The hosts have opened up their home, and are renting out one of their beautiful bedrooms. The apartment is only a 1.5km walk from the centre of the village and is close to the waterfront. All around the apartment, you’ll find beautiful gardens and bird life. The hosts will welcome you on arrival and can give you all the best recommendations for the area. You have off-street parking, and the apartment is in a lovely, safe area. It’s the perfect middle ground of being private and remote, but still being in the centre of town.
Knysna, Western Cape, South Africa
45.16 km (28.1 mi) from Garden Route National ParkTop guest reviews
Host:
amazing host and great placethank you for being such a fantastic hostpatric was very welcoming and a great hostpatric was a very welcoming host toovery friendly and accommodating hostLocation:
great place very close to the town centrelovely place and close to the city centervery neat place at a nice locationall in all comfortable and close to everything we needed :)what a great place very reasonable price and great location minutes from knysnaCleanliness:
the room was clean and tidynice quiet and clean placevery nice clean and comfortable placethe place was clean and had what we neededbeautiful clean and cosy place for 2 peopleRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
uncapped wifi was greatgreat wifi in the roomsuch a comfortable home with a spacious bathroom large bed and a beautiful view of the sunsetthe bathroom is huge modern and sophisticatedthe room was perfect with everything we needed available
11. Cottage with views of the lagoon
Enjoy this tranquil cottage, with amazing views over the lagoon. There’s a large cottage on the property, that is fully gated and secure. There’s a large queen bed in the bedroom, and a sofa bed if you have some friends or children staying. There’s a small kitchenette with plenty of room to cook some small meals - you’re close to the centre of town, so all the best food options are never too far away. You can visit the property all year round and not worry about being cold as there’s a fireplace installed. The hosts live on site, with their children as well as their dog, who are free to roam the whole property.
Knysna, Western Cape, South Africa
44.91 km (28.0 mi) from Garden Route National ParkTop guest reviews
Host:
paul was a great hostamazing host and amazing placepaul is a fantastic hostpaul was very nice and helpful hostour host was welcoming efficient and helpfulLocation:
beautiful location overlooking the lagoonlastly the location was amazingthe location is absolutely perfect if you want to appreciate knysna and the surrounding areasclose to everything and awesome viewsthat makes it also comfortable that everything is so closeCleanliness:
very clean and tidy spotthe house was clean and really greatit was very clean with a well-equipped kitchenthe rooms are tidy and cleanthe space was comfortable and cleanRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
superb views and comfortable staygood apartment with stunning viewsthe apartments view was amazingthe wifi was goodgreat view and actually quite lovely to not have a tv
12. Honeymoon haven best for couples
This beautiful room is the perfect getaway if you’re a newlywed couple on your honeymoon. The house was built inspired by the fourteenth-century French style of houses. You have a large outdoor area, as well as a private patio. You have amazing views over an olive grove. There’s a large spacious bathroom, as well as a self-catering kitchenette. It’s the perfect escape for two! There are both online laundry facilities as well as off-street parking.
44.5 km (27.7 mi) from Garden Route National ParkSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Host:
outstanding hospitality laetitia is an awesome hostthe host is very kind caring helpful and thoughtfulthe host was so helpful and suggested several places to visitshe was very warm and helpfulstunning accommodation with the best hostLocation:
5-star accommodation in a beautiful hilltop locationwhat a beautiful location overlooking the mountains and seawe absolutely loved our stay at laetitia’s placei can’t recommend highly enough and the location is truly idyllicthis place is perfection laetitia is an incredible hostCleanliness:
the space was very clean and comftablethe room was very clean neat and very spaciousthe place is immaculately clean elegantly furnished and wonderfully specialthe bed was super comfi and everything was cleani recommend her place to anyone who appreciates comfort cleanliness and proximity to knysna cbdRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
it had a fantastic view over the bay very comfortable amenities and yummy arrival nibbles and winethe view from the room window and patio area is breathtakinga breathtaking view a beautiful rooma lovely spacious room with amazing views of knysna headslaetitias apartment is just georgeous with a wonderful view over the knysna bay
The Garden of Eden
The area around Knysna is known as the Garden of Eden, thanks to its amazing temperate rainforest, with tranquil lakes and golden beaches. You’re never short of activities you can do in the area, including hiking and kayaking. There are even three elephants that roam around the area, which are former orphans from Kruger National Park.
It’s highly likely that the beauty of this South African town might make you extend your vacation. In that case, you can also stay in one of these long-term rentals in Knysna.
Frequently asked questions about the best Airbnb vacation rentals in Knysna, South Africa
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