Knysna Nightlife Guide,Best Pubs, Bars & Sunset Spots

Knysna Gin Bar

Located at 5 Uil Street, Knysna Industrial, Knysna (6571), Knysna Gin Distillery is the heart of craft gin on the Garden Route. This distillery and cocktail bar produces award-winning small-batch Knysna Gin using nine natural botanicals, including the local Num Num berry. Visitors can enjoy gin tastings, tours, and creative cocktails in a relaxed industrial-chic space. Happy hour runs daily from 4–6 pm, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

Olde’s Pub & Grill

14 Gray Street, Knysna Central (6571), Olde’s Pub & Grill is a beloved family-run institution in Knysna, offering rustic pub fare, hearty portions, and a wide selection of beers, craft beers, wines, and cocktails. With a warm vintage feel, inside seating, and a covered veranda, it’s perfect for relaxed lunches, big nights out or watching sports. Known for its generous portions and friendly staff, this pub feels like a true local hub.

Muse

Set at 152A Old Cape Road, Paradise, Knysna (6571), MUSE is Knysna’s fusion food gastropub where diverse culinary traditions meet local flavor. This cozy venue offers wood-fired pizzas, Thai-inspired mince, mussels with garlic & wine, and more, all made fresh with love. With a charming garden, nostalgic décor, warm fireplace, and occasional live music, MUSE is perfect for a relaxed evening in a uniquely Knysna atmosphere.

The Shed

Found at 9 Spring Street, Knysna (6571), The Shed is a rustic, laid-back pub-restaurant with a natural garden and family-friendly vibe. With indoor and outdoor seating, this spot serves great value meals like hake and ribs, juicy burgers, and comfort food. It’s known for its relaxed, unpretentious style, friendly service, and regular food specials that make it a go-to for both locals and visitors.

Up Town

Uptown Restobar & Lounge sits on the corner of Fichat & Gray Streets, Knysna (Knysna Central area). This modern restobar blends bar and lounge with a relaxed, trendy setting. Known for its burgers, cocktails, and good music, Uptown is a hotspot for nightlife, casual dining, and social hangouts. With a youthful, energetic vibe, it’s ideal for after-work drinks or a fun weekend evening.

Bosun’s Pub & Grill

Located at George Rex Drive, Knysna (Lower Old Place / Hunters Home), Bosun’s Pub & Grill is a cozy, old-style English pub connected to Knysna Golf Club. It offers locally brewed Mitchell’s ale, hearty pub grub, and a welcoming hearth-warmed atmosphere. Perfect for relaxing with a pint, watching sport, or enjoying value-for-money meals in a genuine, community-centered venue.

the Bell Tavern

Tucked away at 169 Lower Duthie Drive, Belvidere Estate, Knysna (6570), The Bell Tavern is Knysna’s smallest pub, full of charm and character. With just 36 seats inside, a cosy wood-burning fireplace, and an outdoor pergola, it feels intimate and historic. Its yellowwood ceiling and ironwood floor add old-world warmth, while the menu features pub classics, local craft beer, gin, and seasonal favorites. A must-visit for authentic Knysna pub ambiance.

Blend Country Restaurant & Pub

Located on 18 George Rex Drive, Knysna (6570), Blend Country Restaurant & Pub (formerly Mo’s on Rex) is nestled in a lush forest setting. With a beer garden, wood-fired pizza oven, and a relaxed country-pub feel, it’s ideal for family meals, live music on weekends, or catching up over a pint. The menu includes pizzas, burgers, steaks, and pub classics. all in a scenic, tranquil garden venue

Tapas & Oysters

Perched on Thesen Island, Knysna, at TH 29, Thesen Island (6570), Tapas & Oysters is a vibrant waterside restaurant-bar with stunning views over the Knysna Lagoon and the iconic Heads. This spot is known for its Spanish, Mediterranean and South African tapas, fresh oysters (from on-site oyster tanks), sushi, and seafood. With live music, big-screen TVs, and boat mooring, it's a lively, scenic venue for dining and drinks.