Bollard Bay Beach
A serene family-friendly beach on Leisure Island, Knysna, known for its shallow, calm waters and stunning sunset views over the Heads.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for sunsets
Bollard Bay Beach
Best Time
Golden hour for sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene family-friendly beach on Leisure Island, Knysna, known for its shallow, calm waters and stunning sunset views over the Heads.
"Perfect for families with little children, with shallow water and a beautiful sunset view over the Heads."
Pack a Picnic Basket 🧺
Bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a leisurely meal with stunning views. Shaded spots are prime real estate!
Perfect for Little Ones :baby:
The shallow, calm waters make it incredibly safe and fun for families with young children.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shallow, Family-Friendly Waters
Main beach area
Perfect for toddlers and young children, the water stays shallow for a long distance, offering safe and enjoyable swimming.
Spectacular Knysna Heads Sunset
Western end of the beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the iconic Knysna Heads. A truly magical end to a day at the beach.
Picnic Under the Trees
Shaded areas along the beach
Enjoy a packed lunch with a view of the Knysna Estuary. Shaded spots are ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best for Families & Gentle Swims
Sunset Views & Picnic Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Picnic Basket 🧺
Bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a leisurely meal with stunning views. Shaded spots are prime real estate!
Perfect for Little Ones :baby:
The shallow, calm waters make it incredibly safe and fun for families with young children.
Sunset Spectacle :city_sunset:
Don't miss the incredible sunset views over the Knysna Heads – a truly magical experience.
Easy Access & Parking :car:
Finding parking is usually straightforward, especially if you arrive later in the afternoon.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Picnic Basket 🧺
Bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a leisurely meal with stunning views. Shaded spots are prime real estate!
Perfect for Little Ones :baby:
The shallow, calm waters make it incredibly safe and fun for families with young children.
Sunset Spectacle :city_sunset:
Don't miss the incredible sunset views over the Knysna Heads – a truly magical experience.
Easy Access & Parking :car:
Finding parking is usually straightforward, especially if you arrive later in the afternoon.
Gentle Strolls :walking:
Walk far out into the water at low tide; it stays shallow, perfect for a relaxing beach walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Bollard Bay Beach's calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for families with young children. The stunning sunset views over the Knysna Heads and the opportunity for peaceful walks are frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally well-loved, some may find the beach narrow at times.
"A friend who lives here recommended this beach for a swim and tan.
It has a narrow, but fairly long beach.
Even though it was a bit windy we still enjoyed it.
You can swim easily there. Shallow water. Great for a family with little children."
Piccolo Montessori School
"Flat water and no real current, you can walk our quite far before it gets to deep, really nice beach to take a walk and swim at and catch the amazing sunset over Knysna"
Steven Lazarus
"One of our favourite places to go. We always sit under the trees (if not occupied) and enjoy having lunch (packed ourselves) there with a view of the Knysna Estuary and Heads. The water can be quite enjoyable, especially with low tide for the little ones."
Chantál Fourie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bollard Bay Beach is located on Leisure Island in Knysna. Access is typically straightforward, and parking is generally available, especially if you visit later in the day.
Yes, it's situated on Leisure Island, a well-known area within Knysna. Follow signs for Leisure Island and then for the beach.
You can drive to Leisure Island and then follow local signage to Bollard Bay Beach. It's a short drive from the main Knysna area.
While specific public transport routes directly to the beach might be limited, taxis or ride-sharing services can easily take you to Leisure Island.
The beach itself is sandy, but access points and pathways should be considered. It's advisable to check local conditions upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Bollard Bay Beach is generally free. While there might be gated access, visitors often find it easy to enter, especially during off-peak hours.
Bollard Bay Beach is typically accessible during daylight hours. There are no strict opening or closing times posted, allowing for flexible visits.
Parking at Bollard Bay Beach is usually free, making it a convenient and cost-effective destination for a day out.
No booking is required for Bollard Bay Beach as it's a public beach. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a picnic. Remember to take all your rubbish with you to keep the beach clean.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming in the shallow waters, sunbathing, picnicking under the trees, and taking leisurely walks along the shore, especially at low tide. The beach offers a relaxed atmosphere for families and couples.
Absolutely! The water is known for being shallow and calm, with no real current, making it ideal for families with young children and for those who prefer gentle swimming.
The water temperature can vary depending on the season, but it's generally pleasant for swimming during warmer months. If the weather is right, it can be crystal clear.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms or showers can vary. It's advisable to check local listings or be prepared with your own amenities.
Regulations regarding pets on beaches can change. It's best to check local signage or Knysna municipal bylaws for current pet policies at Bollard Bay Beach.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the Knysna Heads, especially during sunset. The shallow waters and sandy shores also provide beautiful backdrops for family photos and scenic beach landscapes.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the clear water can be striking then too.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and the Heads. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors.
The unique topography of the Knysna Heads, the calm, clear water (when conditions are right), and the tranquil atmosphere make for distinctive photographic subjects.
Drone usage is subject to aviation regulations. Always check and comply with local drone laws and any restrictions in protected areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
❤️ Couples & Relaxed Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Family Fun at Bollard Bay Beach
Beyond swimming, the beach offers ample space for building sandcastles, playing beach games, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. The presence of shaded areas, often under trees, provides welcome relief from the sun, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic. Packing a lunch and spending a good portion of the day here is highly recommended, as the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views contribute to a memorable family outing. The beach's tranquil nature ensures a peaceful experience, away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist spots.
Capturing the Knysna Heads Sunset
To make the most of this experience, arriving in the late afternoon is advisable. This allows time to find a comfortable spot, perhaps under one of the trees if available, and set up for the sunset. The gentle lapping of the waves and the panoramic view create a serene ambiance, perfect for quiet contemplation or romantic moments. Even if you're not a professional photographer, the natural beauty of the scene is captivating and makes for unforgettable memories and beautiful snapshots.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit