Swartvlei Estuary, near Sedgefield on the Garden Route, is the largest and deepest lake in Wilderness National Park and serves as a popular hub for watersports.

The estuary section — running from the river mouth, around the island, and up to the N2 road bridge — is particularly well suited to canoeing and kayaking, while the broader lake accommodates sailing, motorboating, and waterskiing on calmer days.

A range of craft are permitted on the water, including paddle-boats, rubber ducks, catamarans, and canoes, provided users hold a valid permit and carry life jackets.

Pine Lake Marina is the main launch point, with a fee payable for access and use of facilities. Stand-up paddleboarding is also practiced here, and guided lake cruises depart regularly from Pine Lake Marina.

Birdwatching adds another dimension, with waterfowl, kingfishers, and fish eagles commonly spotted along the shores.