monks holiday park

Monks Holiday Chalets and Caravan Park: Budget-Friendly Lagoon Retreat in Knysna

Nestled on the edge of the picturesque Knysna Lagoon, Monks Holiday Chalets and Caravan Park is a 3.5-star rated (Tripadvisor) campground and self-catering resort in Knysna, Western Cape, South Africa. Its main appeal lies in its tranquil, family-friendly setting with direct lagoon access, offering affordable accommodation within walking distance of Knysna’s vibrant town center. Perfect for campers and budget travelers, Monks combines lush greenery, water activities, and a relaxed vibe for an authentic Garden Route experience.

Key Amenities & Features

Accommodation details:
- 3 self-contained chalets (sleeping 4, 5, or 6 guests) with en-suite bathrooms, kitchenettes (gas stove, fridge, kettle, toaster, cutlery, crockery), TV, and bedding (guests bring own towels).
- 3 cabins: one caravan with attached wooden cabin and bathroom (sleeps 5), one caravan with cabin (sleeps 5), one standalone caravan (sleeps 2, no private bathroom).
- 22 caravan/camping sites with electricity, communal ablutions, and optional caravan hire.
Dining options: No on-site restaurant or breakfast; self-catering kitchens in chalets and caravans; Kwikspar on-site for supplies; nearby restaurants in Knysna (e.g., Persello’s Pizzeria, Royal Siam Thai).
Facilities: Outdoor swimming pool, large grassed areas for recreation, communal braai (barbecue) areas, lagoon frontage for boating and fishing, walking paths along the lagoon.
Services: Free parking, clean ablution blocks with hot/cold water, security, laundry assistance, no WiFi mentioned, no pets (guide dogs only).
Unique features: Direct lagoon access for water activities, budget-friendly rates (from R450/night for 2), central location with serene views, family-oriented with space for socializing.

Best For

Families seeking affordable, fun-filled holidays
Campers and caravan enthusiasts
Budget travelers exploring the Garden Route
Outdoor lovers enjoying fishing, boating, and nature walks

Distance to Major Attractions

Attraction

Approximate Distance (km)

Knysna Charters

Knysna Heads

Featherbed

The Motorcycle Room

Monkeyland

Knysna Elephant Park

Storms River National Park

George Airport

Addo Elephant Park

250

Cango Caves

140

Hermanus

380

Franschhoek

420

Table Mountain

480

V&A Waterfront

485

Kruger National Park

1,300

Guest Reviews

Here are authentic excerpts from Tripadvisor and other platforms:

"We hired a chalet for our family weekend getaway, which suited our needs perfectly. Our chalet was clean, neat and comfortable. It had everything we needed and was definitely value for money. Monks is within walking distance to the kwikspar and a short walk to the lagoon." (Tripadvisor reviewer)
"Went 8 nights at Monks - had a fantastic time - everything you could possibly need is there. Staff and security are friendly and helpful. The ablutions are really clean and well looked after. Conveniently located, with Spar near the entrance and within walking distance to the waterfront." (Tripadvisor reviewer)
"Disappointing stay at Monks… We booked Chalet No. 6 for seven days but left after three due to several issues: the chalet was dilapidated, needed maintenance, and there were water issues for hours. The website photos were misleading." (Wanderlog reviewer)
"The whole Monk’s experience is always a pleasure. We always stay after the holiday rush and the camp is beautifully quiet. We will return whenever we are in the area!" (Safarinow reviewer)

Contact Information

Physical address: Corner of Main Road and Holiday Park Crescent, Costa Sarda, Knysna, 6571, Western Cape, South Africa
Phone number: +27 44 382 2609
Email address: monks@lantic.net
Website URL: http://www.monkscaravan.co.za
Social media handles: None prominently listed