The Zwin nature reserve at the eastern end of town is the main reason to come to Knokke beyond the beach and the shops. The saltwater marshes and tidal flats straddling the Belgian-Dutch border are among the best birdwatching sites on the North Sea coast, with more than half of Belgium's recorded bird species having been spotted here at various times. The reserve has boardwalks, hides, and an interactive visitor centre.
The Grand Casino Knokke, one of Belgium's grandest seaside casinos, is worth a visit for the interior alone — it contains a large Magritte mural, works by Paul Delvaux and Keith Haring, and a history of commissioning major Belgian and international artists. The Lippenslaan is lined with more than 85 art galleries, and on summer evenings the beach promenade is the place to stroll and people-watch.