Eating out with children can be one of the great joys (or biggest challenges) of a holiday — but in Knysna, you’ll find several local spots that welcome kids with open arms, outdoor space, and relaxed vibes. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a lingering lunch, or a casual early dinner, these family-friendly cafés and restaurants make it easy.
We’ve rounded up some of the best places to eat with kids in and around Knysna — plus a few helpful tips to make your outings smoother.
1. Oak Leaf Café – Garden Café with a Kids’ Menu & Play Area
168 Duthie Drive, Belvidere Estate, Knysna
Phone: +27 66 141 5204
Oak Leaf Café is a warm, family-owned café with a dedicated kids’ menu, a secure outdoor play area, and a garden-style layout perfect for relaxed meals. There’s plenty of space for children to explore safely, and the menu includes delicious options for every diet — including vegan and gluten-free.
Why it’s great: Shaded outdoor seating, great coffee, kids can play safely while you eat.
2. The Farm – Rustic Restaurant with Farm Animals & Space to Roam
Old Cape Road, Knysna
Phone: +27 82 413 2094
Just a few minutes from town, The Farm is set on a real working farm and is a hit with young children. There’s a playground, an enclosed garden, and friendly farm animals to greet. The relaxed menu includes wood-fired pizzas, homemade cakes, and hearty breakfasts.
Why it’s great: Space to run, animals to meet, and fresh air in abundance.
3. East Head Café – Iconic Spot with Lagoon Views
East Head Drive, The Heads, Knysna
Phone: +27 44 384 0933
While East Head Café doesn’t have a full play area, it remains popular with families thanks to its safe enclosed setting, stunning views, and flexible menu with child-friendly options. It’s open until 3pm and ideal for breakfast or early lunch.
Why it’s great: Reliable food, casual atmosphere, and perfectly placed for a walk to The Heads after your meal.
4. African Bean Café – Local Favourite on Main Road
29 Main Road, Knysna Central
Phone: +27 44 382 2845
African Bean is a great indoor option for families in town. It offers hearty breakfasts, wraps, cakes, and comforting favourites like banana & chocolate pancakes. While it doesn’t have a playground, the welcoming staff and relaxed pace make it a go-to for families needing a break between errands or outings.
Why it’s great: Central location, good coffee, and a friendly setting for all ages.
Shop 5, 20 Main Road, Knysna Central
Phone: +27 63 904 7041
While it’s known for small-batch roasted coffee, Trinity also offers a relaxed breakfast and lunch menu with cakes and light meals that appeal to all ages. The interior is sleek but welcoming, and there’s covered outdoor seating with space to spread out.
Why it’s great: Good food, thoughtful service, and a kid-friendly selection of sweet treats.
6. The Village Café – Lagoon Views, Lawns, and a Laid-Back Feel
61 Waterfront Drive, Knysna
Phone: +27 76 717 3739
Nestled among trees with lush lawns overlooking the Knysna lagoon, The Village Café is bright, cheerful, and great for families. There’s a safe outdoor space where little ones can move around freely, and the menu features generous brunches, fresh juices, and locally loved favourites like quiche, French toast, and burgers.
Why it’s great: Lagoon views, relaxed garden seating, and space for kids to play nearby.
7. Totties Country Market – Sunday Food & Local Flavour
Rheenendal Road (outside Knysna)
Phone: +27 71 683 0929 – Open Sundays only
Totties isn’t a traditional sit-down restaurant — it’s a vibrant Sunday market where you can graze through a variety of food stalls, homemade treats, and fresh local produce. Families will enjoy the open-air atmosphere and opportunity to sample many flavours at once. Grab brunch, explore craft stalls, and take your picks back to your chalet for a relaxed lunch or picnic.
Why it’s great: Great for gathering variety, casual eats, and a fresh-market experience — particularly on a relaxed Sunday.
8. Cruise Café
Remembrance Drive (near the Featherbed Ferry Terminal)
Phone: +27 44 382 1693
Overlooking the lagoon, Cruise Café is ideal for a lunch or early dinner. Their kids’ menu includes fish fingers, chicken nuggets, and pasta — all accompanied by a scoop of ice cream. The vibe is relaxed, and the views give little ones something to watch while you wait for your food.
Why it’s great: Lagoon views, simple kids’ meals, nice mix of local and classic dishes.
9. Pizza e Vino (at the Heads)
George Rex Drive, The Heads, Knysna
Phone: +27 83 227 6211
For casual Italian food in a buzzy location, Pizza e Vino is ideal. There’s no dedicated kids’ play zone, but the pizza and pasta are always popular, and you’re right across from one of Knysna’s most scenic viewpoints. Great for a treat meal after exploring the rock pools during low tide.
Why it’s great: Everyone loves pizza, close to scenic walking spots, fast service.
10. Tapas & Oysters – Lively Lagoon-Side Dining
Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Island, Knysna
Phone: +27 44 382 7196
Tapas & Oysters is a long-time Knysna favourite for its buzzing atmosphere, waterfront views, and casual shared plates. While it’s known for its oysters and cocktails, it’s also surprisingly kid-friendly thanks to the large, well-maintained playground directly in front. Parents can enjoy relaxed dining while keeping an eye on the kids.
Why it’s great: Front-row view of the playground, relaxed vibe, waterside seating, family-style food.
11. Flo & Co – Family-Friendly Café with a View
Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Island, Knysna
Phone: +27 44 518 0799
Right next to Tapas, Flo & Co offers a calmer café-style menu, with wraps, burgers, and breakfast options. The indoor seating has a view of the playground on the green, making it a great alternative for quieter family meals with the same benefit of open space.
Why it’s great: Relaxed, modern café with easy outdoor access and kid-approved meals.
12. Blend Country Restaurant – Casual Dining Under the Trees
18 George Rex Dr, Hunters Home, Knysna
Phone: +27 44 384 0493
Set just outside the hustle of town, Blend is a favourite for its spacious garden setting, relaxed atmosphere, and well-rounded menu. Families love the shaded outdoor seating, large lawn, and dedicated play area with swings and climbing equipment. There’s live music on some evenings and a kids’ menu with favourites like pizzas and burgers.
Why it’s great: Large outdoor play area, relaxed country setting, kid-friendly meals, great for early dinners or laid-back lunches.
Tips for Eating Out with Kids in Knysna
Dining out with little ones? These small tips can help make family meals more enjoyable:
- Go early for breakfast or lunch to avoid the midday rush and give kids more space to settle.
- Choose outdoor seating where possible – it’s more relaxed and lets kids move a little.
- Bring small activities like colouring books, card games, or beach toys to keep them busy.
- Pack a water bottle and a snack, just in case. Even the happiest kids can get hangry!
- Make lunch your main meal – some restaurants close by 3pm or 4pm.
- Call ahead during busy periods to check for high chairs or table availability.
- Ask about kids’ menus – most spots have one, even if it’s not listed.
- Plan for parking – places like Thesen Island and Belvidere offer more space than the town centre.
Staying at The Milkwood Collection?
All of these eateries are an easy drive from your self-catering villa or chalet. You can head out for a pancake breakfast or pizza night, then return home for beach time, naps, or evening braais (BBQs) in comfort. With fully equipped kitchens (and colourful Le Creuset cookware), you can also whip up your own meals when the kids are just too tired to go out.
Explore our accommodation options at www.milkwood.co.za.