Looking for things to do on the Garden Route that won’t drain your wallet? Whether you’re a local who loves exploring the area or a visitor keen to experience the Garden Route without the tourist price tags, there’s a ton you can enjoy for free. From epic ocean views at Gerickes Point to exploring an old shipwreck, natural tidal pools, and secret forest trails, this list has a little something for everyone. So pack a picnic, grab your friends, and get ready for a Garden Route adventure that’s big on fun and light on the budget!
Sedgefield
Gerickes Point, near Sedgefield, is one of the Garden Route’s hidden gems and a must-visit spot for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Famous for its dramatic rock formations that stretch into the ocean, this coastal area offers an incredible backdrop for a leisurely hike at low tide, with endless views and a true sense of wild beauty. For those who enjoy snorkelling, the tidal pools here are ideal for spotting vibrant marine life, with clear waters that make it easy to see starfish, anemones, and small fish. Even if you’re not keen on snorkelling, the rock pools are a delight to explore, perfect for dipping your toes and enjoying the serenity. Just remember to go at low tide for the best experience and to wear shoes suitable for rocky terrain.
Glentana
For a laid-back, family-friendly braai with a view, head to Glentana Beach. This hidden gem of a braai spot sits just adjacent to the sand, offering sweeping ocean views without the summer crowds, making it an ideal place to relax, even during peak season. With plenty of sunshine, it’s also perfect for a winter braai while you watch the kids play nearby on the beach. P.S. While you're here, take a short walk down the beach to check out the nearby shipwreck of the Portuguese Treasure. It's an old iron relic from 1902, and adds a touch of adventure to your beach day in Glentana!
Glentana
Arrr, matey! If ye be lookin' fer adventure, head to Glentana Beach and set yer sights on the wreck o’ the Portuguese Treasure—a true pirate’s prize, stranded on these shores back in 1902. A short walk down the coastline will take ye to this old iron beauty, her rusted bones stickin’ out o’ the sand and sea as a reminder o' storms long past. P.S. After exploring the shipwreck, head to the nearby braai area overlooking the ocean. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the peaceful Glentana views—just don’t forget to bring all your supplies with you!
George
The Pepsi Pools hike near Nelson Mandela University (NMU) offers a peaceful escape into nature, leading you through beautiful fynbos to a set of natural rock pools with uniquely dark, cola-coloured water from the surrounding plant tannins. It’s a moderate hike, but well worth the effort for a refreshing swim in these secluded pools. Perfect for a hot day, just bring a towel, pack some snacks, and enjoy this secret spot in the Garden Route for a cool, tranquil dip surrounded by lush scenery! P.S.: The Pepsi Pools trail is also accessible by mountain bike, making it a great spot for a ride-and-swim adventure! Just bring your bike along and enjoy the scenic cycle to the pools.
George
The Nelson Mandela University (NMU) Saasveld campus in the Garden Route offers a fantastic network of walking and cycling trails through indigenous forest, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With trails for all fitness levels, you’ll find everything from gentle paths to challenging routes, each offering beautiful scenery and the chance to spot local wildlife. Whether you're up for a peaceful walk or an invigorating cycle, NMU’s Saasveld trails provide a serene, scenic escape right in the heart of the Garden Route.
George
The Garden Route Dam near George is a go-to spot for anyone who loves the outdoors. The scenic trails around the dam are great for a relaxed walk, a bike ride, or a stroll with your furry friends, all while taking in beautiful mountain views. With open spaces and plenty of nature to explore, it’s an ideal place for families, fitness lovers, and anyone wanting to unwind and enjoy the fresh air of the Garden Route.
Wilderness
The Map of Africa viewpoint in Wilderness offers one of the most iconic views along the Garden Route. From this elevated spot, you can see a stunning natural formation in the shape of the African continent, created by the winding Kaaimans River below. Surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic mountains, it’s the perfect place for a photo op or simply to soak in the landscape. This viewpoint is easily accessible by car, making it a must-visit stop for anyone exploring the area.
Knysna
Leisure Island in Knysna is a lovely spot for a laid-back day of swimming and brunching. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for a refreshing dip, making it perfect for families with kids or anyone wanting a gentle swim. After a swim, you can head to one of the nearby cafés for a delicious brunch with a view. With its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Leisure Island is a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy Knysna’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace. P.S. when you're done take a short trip to the Knysna Heads for a scenic walk and breathtaking views of the lagoon and ocean—it’s the perfect way to round off a relaxing day on Leisure Island.
Knysna
The Knysna Forest offers a peaceful escape into some of the most enchanting natural scenery along the Garden Route. With trails winding through dense forest, towering trees, and dappled sunlight, a walk here feels like stepping back in time. Look out for ancient yellowwoods, lush undergrowth, and perhaps even a glimpse of the elusive Knysna Loerie. The trails vary from short and easy paths to more challenging hikes, making it accessible for all fitness levels. A walk in the Knysna Forest is an unforgettable way to connect with nature and experience the wild beauty of the area.
Herolds Bay
The Herolds Bay tidal pool is a fantastic spot for discovering marine life up close. This natural rock pool fills with seawater at high tide, creating a calm environment where you can spot sea anemones, small fish, crabs, and other coastal critters. It’s perfect for families with kids, snorkellers, or anyone curious about the ocean’s hidden wonders. Bring along your snorkel or just wade in and take a closer look—Herolds Bay’s tidal pool is a simple, fun way to explore the sea without venturing far from shore.
Sedgefield
Gerickes Point, near Sedgefield, is one of the Garden Route’s hidden gems and a must-visit spot for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Famous for its dramatic rock formations that stretch into the ocean, this coastal area offers an incredible backdrop for a leisurely hike at low tide, with endless views and a true sense of wild beauty. For those who enjoy snorkelling, the tidal pools here are ideal for spotting vibrant marine life, with clear waters that make it easy to see starfish, anemones, and small fish. Even if you’re not keen on snorkelling, the rock pools are a delight to explore, perfect for dipping your toes and enjoying the serenity. Just remember to go at low tide for the best experience and to wear shoes suitable for rocky terrain.
Glentana
For a laid-back, family-friendly braai with a view, head to Glentana Beach. This hidden gem of a braai spot sits just adjacent to the sand, offering sweeping ocean views without the summer crowds, making it an ideal place to relax, even during peak season. With plenty of sunshine, it’s also perfect for a winter braai while you watch the kids play nearby on the beach. P.S. While you're here, take a short walk down the beach to check out the nearby shipwreck of the Portuguese Treasure. It's an old iron relic from 1902, and adds a touch of adventure to your beach day in Glentana!
Glentana
Arrr, matey! If ye be lookin' fer adventure, head to Glentana Beach and set yer sights on the wreck o’ the Portuguese Treasure—a true pirate’s prize, stranded on these shores back in 1902. A short walk down the coastline will take ye to this old iron beauty, her rusted bones stickin’ out o’ the sand and sea as a reminder o' storms long past. P.S. After exploring the shipwreck, head to the nearby braai area overlooking the ocean. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the peaceful Glentana views—just don’t forget to bring all your supplies with you!
George
The Pepsi Pools hike near Nelson Mandela University (NMU) offers a peaceful escape into nature, leading you through beautiful fynbos to a set of natural rock pools with uniquely dark, cola-coloured water from the surrounding plant tannins. It’s a moderate hike, but well worth the effort for a refreshing swim in these secluded pools. Perfect for a hot day, just bring a towel, pack some snacks, and enjoy this secret spot in the Garden Route for a cool, tranquil dip surrounded by lush scenery! P.S.: The Pepsi Pools trail is also accessible by mountain bike, making it a great spot for a ride-and-swim adventure! Just bring your bike along and enjoy the scenic cycle to the pools.
George
The Nelson Mandela University (NMU) Saasveld campus in the Garden Route offers a fantastic network of walking and cycling trails through indigenous forest, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With trails for all fitness levels, you’ll find everything from gentle paths to challenging routes, each offering beautiful scenery and the chance to spot local wildlife. Whether you're up for a peaceful walk or an invigorating cycle, NMU’s Saasveld trails provide a serene, scenic escape right in the heart of the Garden Route.
George
The Garden Route Dam near George is a go-to spot for anyone who loves the outdoors. The scenic trails around the dam are great for a relaxed walk, a bike ride, or a stroll with your furry friends, all while taking in beautiful mountain views. With open spaces and plenty of nature to explore, it’s an ideal place for families, fitness lovers, and anyone wanting to unwind and enjoy the fresh air of the Garden Route.
Wilderness
The Map of Africa viewpoint in Wilderness offers one of the most iconic views along the Garden Route. From this elevated spot, you can see a stunning natural formation in the shape of the African continent, created by the winding Kaaimans River below. Surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic mountains, it’s the perfect place for a photo op or simply to soak in the landscape. This viewpoint is easily accessible by car, making it a must-visit stop for anyone exploring the area.
Knysna
Leisure Island in Knysna is a lovely spot for a laid-back day of swimming and brunching. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for a refreshing dip, making it perfect for families with kids or anyone wanting a gentle swim. After a swim, you can head to one of the nearby cafés for a delicious brunch with a view. With its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Leisure Island is a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy Knysna’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace. P.S. when you're done take a short trip to the Knysna Heads for a scenic walk and breathtaking views of the lagoon and ocean—it’s the perfect way to round off a relaxing day on Leisure Island.
Knysna
The Knysna Forest offers a peaceful escape into some of the most enchanting natural scenery along the Garden Route. With trails winding through dense forest, towering trees, and dappled sunlight, a walk here feels like stepping back in time. Look out for ancient yellowwoods, lush undergrowth, and perhaps even a glimpse of the elusive Knysna Loerie. The trails vary from short and easy paths to more challenging hikes, making it accessible for all fitness levels. A walk in the Knysna Forest is an unforgettable way to connect with nature and experience the wild beauty of the area.
Herolds Bay
The Herolds Bay tidal pool is a fantastic spot for discovering marine life up close. This natural rock pool fills with seawater at high tide, creating a calm environment where you can spot sea anemones, small fish, crabs, and other coastal critters. It’s perfect for families with kids, snorkellers, or anyone curious about the ocean’s hidden wonders. Bring along your snorkel or just wade in and take a closer look—Herolds Bay’s tidal pool is a simple, fun way to explore the sea without venturing far from shore.
And there you have it—10 amazing things to do in the Garden Route that won’t cost you a cent! Whether you’re strolling through scenic forests, uncovering shipwrecks, or just soaking up those unbeatable views, the Garden Route proves that some of the best experiences are absolutely free. And remember, this list is just the beginning! There’s so much more to explore on a budget on toodoo. Happy adventuring, and don’t forget to share your favourite finds with us—there’s always something new to discover in this incredible part of South Africa! For more ideas, browse our website! Simply click on the To Do Ideas button, select Free, and hit Find me ideas. You’ll discover even more budget-friendly experiences waiting to be explored in the Garden Route.
Disclaimer:
Although every effort is made to provide the most up to date and accurate information, the information on this site may not be exhaustive and is for reference only. Knockout Productions trading as toodoo or any it’s associates cannot be held responsible for misuse of this information provided here or for injury, death or any losses that may result in taking part in any of the activities represented on the toodoo website.
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Things to do and places to be in the Garden Route. The 300 km Garden Route gets its name from the Garden Route National Park that it covers. It includes a lush and diverse vegetation. Explore some of our many lakes, mountains, forests, and beaches with toodoo.
