Knysna is one of South Africa’s most beautiful towns and is a great family destination because of the wide variety of child friendly activities.
The Moorings, one of my favourite places to stay in Knysna, is nestled on an inlet to the lagoon. The resort is less than 3 km from Knysna’s town-centre — making trips to shops, cafés and attractions easy, and even closer to the famous Knysna Heads and Leisure Isle.
What I really enjoy is this is a resort in the true sense of the word – it is self-contained with its own restaurants, swimming pools, spa, spacious lawns and playgrounds. There is only one access point to the resort, and this is manned by alert and friendly staff.
The lagoon front setting is ideal: calm waters, a private inlet with boat-launch and docking facilities, and the surrounding natural environment all contribute to a relaxed holiday vibe.
Accommodation
For families, The Moorings shines in its variety of room types and space options. Choose from standard rooms, one- and two-bedroom suites, and even waterfront villas — many of which are ideal for a family grouping.
Two-bedroom suites and waterfront villas are especially family-friendly: they provide multiple bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms and often patios or balconies overlooking the lagoon or garden.
My personal favourite are the waterfront villas. They are spacious and have all the facilities for a great stay. Both bedrooms are on the first floor and have ensuite bathrooms and the main bedroom has its own balcony overlooking the lagoon. On the ground floor there is a spacious and open plan kitchen, lounge and dining area leading out onto a veranda.
All accommodation is air-conditioned and includes comforts like tea/coffee facilities, flat-screen TV with DSTV (or selected channels), safe and WiFi in public areas.
From a family perspective, the choice of larger units means kids and parents can have their own space, which makes this resort a comfortable option for multi-generational stays or those bringing young children.
Restaurants
There are two restaurants at The Moorings, the Salmon Restaurant or Tuscano Ristorante
The Salmon Restaurant offers a relaxed yet stylish setting with direct access to the pool and outdoor terrace and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The breakfast buffet is excellent and serves English, Continental and Health options.
The pool menu will satisfy cravings with a refreshing menu of juices, smoothies, cocktails and nutritious snacks. Enjoy a great sit-down meal, quick pool-side snack or eat-in room service.
The room-service and casual pool-side snack menus mean are a blessing for the kids are ravenous after their swimming escapades.
The Tuscano Bistro Ristorante offers a quieter setting and is situated in a garden that has close proximity to the main hotel building and villas. The restaurant serves Italian Mediterranean cuisine. The intimate 50-seater bistro boasts a wood-fired oven and fireplace, the perfect spot for a romantic dinner. Open daily for lunch and dinner. The garden tables are particularly pleasant on warm evenings and are lit by lights set amongst the foliage.
Facilities
The resort offers a broad set of facilities that make it especially suitable for families:
- A large outdoor swimming pool with patio, sun loungers and garden views — perfect for kids to splash and parents to relax.
- Direct lagoon-access: families can launch a small boat or enjoy views and activities at the water’s edge.
- Comfortable gardens and woodland settings give children space to roam safely and parents a calm environment.
- Free WiFi in public areas, tea/coffee facilities in rooms, in-room amenities and safe parking all add convenience.
- The resort is located close to shops, attractions and beaches in Knysna — making it easy to plan day-excursions and return to rest in the afternoon.
- The Orchid Day Spa, using organic products, is a firm favourite for those wanting a truly relaxing experience.
These facilities mean that a family stay here can be both restful and activity-filled, giving flexibility according to children’s energy and moods.
Premier Kids Club
The Premier Kids Club is one of the best aspects of The Moorings as, upon arrival, kids can sign up at the Premier Kids’ Club welcome desk, where they’ll receive a special goody bag.
The Kids Club Entertainment team is on hand to organise daily events and ensure kids have an unforgettable time, giving parents a chance to relax while their little ones embark on fun adventures!
Daily activities include a wide range of fun-filled activities, including Hula Hoop, Lasso Challenge, Movie Nights, Crazy Hairdo Games, Corn Hole Challenge, The Buzz Game, Real Sand Art Competition to name few.
My family and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Moorings and will be returning soon. See you there!
Contact details
For more information or to make a booking visit their website. Find them at 1 George Rex Drive, Rexford, Knysna or on Google Maps.
