Best Braai Spots and Where to Find Firewood Around Knysna

A braai is not just supper in Knysna — it is the whole afternoon. The smell of rooikrans, the crackle of the coals, a cold one in hand and the lagoon going gold in front of you. Here is where to light the fire, and where to buy the wood to do it properly.

Where to braai in and around town

• Leisure Isle and the lagoon edge: There are public braai areas along the water where you can settle in for the day. Bring your own grid and charcoal, and check local signage for any seasonal restrictions.
• Buffalo Bay and Brenton-on-Sea: Both have lovely picnic and braai spots near the beach. Brenton is a favourite for a late-afternoon fire and a sunset over the bay.
• Belvidere and the Knysna River: Quieter, greener and great for a family afternoon. The old church at Belvidere makes a pretty walk before you eat.
• Wilderness and the lakes: A short drive east gets you to the Garden Route lakes, where picnic sites along the water are made for slow braais.
• Your guesthouse garden: Honestly, one of the best spots. A private braai at your accommodation means no packing up in the dark. Ask us at Knysna Paradise Guesthouse about braai facilities before you book.

Firewood: buy local, burn dry

Rooikrans is the classic Knysna braai wood — dense, slow-burning and full of flavour. You will find it at roadside stalls, farm gates and hardware stores around town, often sold in bundles or by the bakkie load. Buy dry, seasoned wood: green wood smokes and sulks. Avoid picking up driftwood or fallen branches from protected areas, and never bring your own wood from far away — local wood keeps local pests local.

Charcoal is easier for a quick fire, but for a proper South African braai, rooikrans coals are hard to beat. Grab a bag of blitz and a box of matches while you are at it.

Make a day of it

Pair your braai with a morning on the water or a forest walk. Our post on things to do in Knysna has plenty of ideas, and if you are planning a longer Garden Route trip, our sister properties are worth a look for stopovers along the way.

Light the fire early, let the coals settle, and enjoy the slow part. That is a Knysna braai.

Knysna Paradise Guesthouse — 2026-10-21