The Knysna Lagoon is the largest tidal lagoon along the southern coast of South Africa, covering a tidal area of approximately 20 square kilometres. It is an estuary — open to both the ocean and rivers — though locals commonly refer to it as a lagoon. The water is generally calm and well-suited to kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, surfski, and canoe polo, with the clearest and coolest water typically found near Leisure Isle and the Heads.

Air temperatures range from around 20°C in winter to the mid-30s Celsius in summer, making paddling viable year-round. Mornings tend to offer the flattest water conditions, which is particularly advantageous for stand-up paddleboarding. The lagoon supports nearly 200 species of fish, and the salt marshes — the second largest in South Africa — are home to the endangered Knysna Seahorse. Birdlife is abundant, including pelagic species, malachite kingfisher, heron, spoonbill, and royal ibis.

Access points are spread around the lagoon. Popular launch sites include the beaches of Leisure Isle, the jetties at the Knysna Waterfront, the western shore at Belvidere and Brenton-on-Lake, a site known as The Point (located next to the N2 heading toward George), and Crabs Creek. A site called Oudrif, within a private nature reserve open to the public, allows paddlers to travel upstream approximately 2 km to a weir dam at Charlesford Farm; gate closing times should be confirmed on entry. The Goukamma River near Buffalo Bay is another option, where canoes can be rented directly from Cape Nature (044 383 0042).

All boats using the lagoon must display a valid SANParks permit, and certain areas are off-limits due to environmental protections. Non-seagoing boats are not permitted past Fountain Point, marked by a white beacon. Channels and banks are most visible at low tide. Paddlers should obtain a SANParks map showing permitted and restricted zones.

The Knysna Canoe Club, based at the Knysna Yacht Club, holds weekly time trials on Tuesday evenings at 17:30, open to visiting paddlers. Informal surfski paddles are arranged based on weather and participant experience. Kayak hire is available from operators at the Knysna Waterfront jetty, with life jackets and paddles provided; no prior experience is required for rental.