The Heads

The Heads

Government • Knysna, Western Cape South Africa

The Heads in Knysna are a striking geological feature, where massive sandstone cliffs flank the deep channel connecting the Knysna Lagoon to the Indian Ocean. This location is not only a stunning visual spectacle but also a pivotal area from a maritime perspective, guiding the tidal waters that feed and cleanse the estuarine lagoon.

The area's dramatic scenery is complemented by its rich biodiversity. The surrounding waters and lush vegetation are home to a variety of marine and terrestrial life, making it a prime spot for eco-tourists and nature lovers. From viewing dolphins and seals in their natural habitat to bird watching and exploring coastal forests, The Heads offer a plethora of activities for the outdoor enthusiast.

Historical Significance

Historically, The Heads were notorious for being incredibly dangerous to navigate due to hidden reefs and unpredictable currents. Many ships met their demise attempting to pass through, contributing to the area's mystique and historical allure. Today, visitors can learn about these stories and more at the nearby maritime museum which details the history of the region and its ecological importance.

For those seeking adventure, a number of boat tours are available, providing a closer look at the formidable cliffs and the chance to explore the marine environment. Additionally, several viewing platforms along the cliffs offer panoramic views of the ocean, lagoon, and the surrounding topography.

Whether it's the allure of historical tales or the call of the wild that draws you, The Heads in Knysna remains a captivating destination for travelers with diverse interests.

55°F

High: 55°F / Low: 55°F

Currency

South African rand
$29 Tour Provided by Viator
5.00

Scenic Lagoon cruise with the Bella Vita Champagne Lounger

Cruise in ultimate style while you discover all the unique coves and bays on the way to the famous Knysna Heads. We cruise alongside the beautiful turquoise Featherbed Bay where it’s very protected and one can cool down with a swim in summer. Sit back and relax, enjoy the feeling of the sun on your face, and the wind in your hair, while viewing the beautiful town of Knysna framed by the Outeniqua mountains. Our captain will be sure to tell you about all the secret spots in Knysna to explore. Oysters, drinks and snacks are available on pre-order. Remember to bring your camera, hat, sunscreen, binoculars and something warm, as it can get cooler on the water than on land, especially during the late afternoons. Please bring your own beach towel, should you want to swim.

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$32 Tour Provided by Viator
4.94 (17 reviews)

Luxury Sunset Cruise on the Estuary

Watch Knysna come alive in a glow of gold, pink and amber as you cruise the tranquil lagoon towards the iconic Knysna Heads aboard Bella Vita, our stylish 24-foot luxury lagoon cruiser. Settle into comfortable lounge seating and soak up the changing colours of the sky, forested hills and Garden Route coastline. Keep an eye out for the lagoon’s birdlife and playful seals along the way. Enhance your experience with pre-ordered oysters, sparkling wine or a charcuterie board to enjoy as the sun sets. A relaxed and scenic way to end the day on the sheltered waters of the Knysna Lagoon.

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$35 Tour Provided by Viator
4.91 (192 reviews)

Knysna Boat Cruise to the Heads – Small Group, Calm Lagoon

Magic Lagoon Charters offers a truly different way to experience the Knysna Lagoon — aboard beautifully restored classic wooden boats that combine timeless style with a smooth, comfortable ride. Unlike larger or ocean-based tours, our cruises take place entirely on the calm, sheltered waters of the lagoon. That means no swell, no crowds, and no rush — just a relaxed, intimate experience in one of South Africa’s most scenic settings. With small group sizes and a low-to-the-water perspective, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views and a far more personal connection to the surroundings — from the Knysna Heads to the turquoise waters of Featherbed Bay. We’re also fully licensed, allowing you to enjoy drinks, bubbly, oysters, and curated platters on board — transforming your cruise into a refined, social experience rather than just a sightseeing trip. This isn’t a standard boat tour. It’s classic lagoon cruising — private in feel, effortless, and beautifully done.

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$128 Tour Provided by Viator
4.81 (47 reviews)

Knysna Sunset Sailing Cruise, Light Dinner & Bubbly

Join us for the ultimate sailing experience whilst soaking up the golden hues of the Knysna sunset. This 2.5 hour experience departs from the Knysna waterfront and glides through the Knysna estuary up to the rugged headlands and out to the vast Indian Ocean. Let the natural beauty of Knysna entertain you from the breathtaking coastline to the diverse marine life. Included with this unique experience is an amazing Mediterranean platter and a complimentary glass or two of chilled South African Cap Classique while you watch the sun sink into the horizon.

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$99 Tour Provided by Viator
4.75

Knysna Day Sailing Cruise 1.5 hour

This is our shortest sailing cruise but you will still thrill at the wind in the sails and the beautiful scenery out through the Knysna Heads and along the spectacular coastline. If you love sailing, this experience offers you a little taste of everything. From the calm waters of the lagoon, through the magnificent Knysna Heads and out to the vast ocean, you and your family can enjoy many different aspects of a day at sea with our highly experienced crew. This rare opportunity to combine lagoon and sea sailing means you can feel the rush of the wind in the sails and perhaps even see dolphins and whales. All our trips are ocean going trips and are weather and sea conditions dependent. Only the skipper of the vessel can make a judgement call on these conditions which are determined on the day of the charter. Conditions are influenced by tide, wind direction & speed and sea swell, therefore going out through the Knysna Heads is never guaranteed.

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$148 Tour Provided by Viator
4.75

Knysna Day Sail & Lunch Charter 2.5 Hour

If you enjoy sailing, this experience, followed by a delicious lunch, is the perfect way to bring a little luxury into your Knysna adventure. This activity also provides an ideal way to view the spectacular scenery and marine life of the world-renowned Garden Route coastline. The route takes you over the Knysna lagoon, through the impressive Knysna Heads and out into the true freedom of the open ocean.  After a magnificent sail, we return to the calmer waters of the Knysna Estuary and serve a delicious feast of Mediterranean style cuisine. All our trips are ocean-going trips and are weather and sea conditions dependent. Only the skipper of the vessel can make a judgment call on these conditions which are determined on the day of the charter. Conditions are influenced by tide, wind direction & speed, and sea swell, therefore going out through the Knysna Heads is never guaranteed.

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$51 Tour Provided by Viator
4.67 (21 reviews)

Knysna Sunset Cruise

Booking a Knysna Sunset Cruise is a memorable way to end off a day in Knysna. Fresh air, delicious oysters and many perfect photographic opportunities all ensure that our guests leave the tour with lasting memories of Knysna.

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$101 Tour Provided by Viator
4.50 (32 reviews)

Knysna Marine Life & Garden Route Coastline Experience

Enjoy this spectacular 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise, that takes you across the Knysna Lagoon and out to sea through the Knysna Heads to explore the coves, caves and bays of our rugged and beautiful coastline. With your local, professional guide, experience the highlights from the geological characteristics and the biodiversity of Knysna’s estuarine and marine environment. Get a chance to often see marine life in your shared group, with no more than 25 people. Choose from one of three departure times when you book.

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$51 Tour Provided by Viator
4.33 (12 reviews)

Knysna Oyster Tour

Our coastal town of Knysna and Oysters go together like champagne and caviar, sea and sky, summer breezes and cold beers ... if you're more than a little intrigued by oysters, then join us for the ultimate oyster experience on the spectacular Knysna Lagoon. Learn all there is to know about one of the world's most loved delicacy, taste the difference between wild and cultivated oysters, all whilst cruising the lagoon to the Heads and surrounds. Ask questions, take photo's, excite your taste buds - all on board our "Oyster Boat" with a small group of guests. The cruise includes complimentary local white wine and oysters for tasting. Extra oysters are available on pre-order to enjoy on the boat.

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$297 Tour Provided by Viator

Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Knysna

Want to capture your amazing honeymoon? Family vacation while the kids are still little? Your perfect couples retreat from everyday busy life? A solo trip without asking strangers to take pictures of you? Stop searching, we got you here! We are the largest network of local vacation photographers in the world! Besides Knysna, we operate in over 700 destinations worldwide! We always make sure that every special moment of each client is captured well. We believe in our service and quality of our photos so much that we even offer a 100% money back satisfaction guarantee for your photo shoot. Which means, if you don’t like the result of your photo shoot, you can contact us within 7 days and claim your money back! So what are you waiting for? Become one of our hundreds of happy customers by treating yourself to this special experience! Your family and friends will love the result too!

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Interesting Places Nearby

Planning the perfect vacation? There are a ton of great places to explore. Checkout out these exciting locations and places near The Heads.