Leisure Isle is a small island situated within the Knysna Lagoon on South Africa's Garden Route, in the Western Cape. The lagoon surrounding the island is generally calm and well-suited to beginner and intermediate paddlers, with the waters around Leisure Isle typically being the clearest and coolest in the lagoon. The island offers some of the most iconic views of Knysna and the Heads from the water.

A public slipway is available at the Peter Gordon small boat harbour on Leisure Isle, operated by the Leisure Isle Boat Club (LIBC). The harbour was originally built in 1992 and extended in 2004. Visitors can launch at the public slipway for a daily fee, or join as temporary members on a weekly or monthly basis. The club accommodates boats under 6.1m, and there is limited storage for paddle craft. Office hours run from 07h00 to 18h00 between September and April, and 07h00 to 17h30 from May to August.

From Leisure Isle, paddlers can reach a range of destinations across the lagoon, including the Knysna Waterfront, Thesen Islands, Featherbed Nature Reserve and its beach bar, Brenton-on-Lake, and Belvidere. The small bay at the Knysna Heads near the NSRI station is also a reachable destination by kayak or SUP. Paddlers should note that the Knysna Heads area carries significant hazard — currents can reach 6 knots and above, and paddling near the Heads should be avoided entirely on an outgoing tide. All boats operating on the lagoon require a valid SANParks sticker, and paddlers are advised to consult the SANParks office regarding official safety gear requirements.

Early mornings tend to offer the flattest water conditions, making them preferable for SUP and kayaking. Wind and tidal currents can make return trips difficult, so awareness of conditions before launching is important. Personal flotation devices are strongly recommended even on the lagoon, along with sun protection, as reflection off the water increases UV exposure.

Bollard Bay on Leisure Isle is a popular swimming and recreation spot with shallow, calm water. The island also supports notable birdlife, including occasional sightings of Oyster Catchers, Fish Eagles, and Kingfishers in the surrounding wetlands and estuary.