Walvis Bay

Walvis Bay is Namibia's primary commercial port city, with a population of roughly 62,000 (2011 census). It sits on a large natural lagoon on the Atlantic coast, sheltered by the Pelican Point sand spit. The name "Walvis Bay" means "Whale Bay" in Dutch/Afrikaans, a reference to the southern right whales that once frequented these waters. Today, the city is best known for its extraordinary birdlife — particularly thousands of greater and lesser flamingoes that feed in the shallow, nutrient-rich lagoon — and for its world-class water sports.

The bay was discovered by the Portuguese explorer Diogo Cão in 1486 and later claimed by the British, who annexed it to the Cape Colony in 1878. This British possession created an odd geopolitical situation: Walvis Bay was a British exclave surrounded by German South West Africa until World War I, after which it briefly reverted to South Africa and was fully incorporated into Namibia only in 1994. Unlike Swakopmund's German architecture, Walvis Bay has a more functional, industrial feel, centred on its port, fishing fleet, and salt-pan operations.

Climate: Walvis Bay has a mild desert climate, similar to Swakopmund. Daytime temperatures range from 16°C in winter to 22°C in summer. Rainfall is extremely low (under 20 mm annually) but fog is common, especially in the morning. The best time to visit is May–October, when the weather is clearest and migratory birds are present.

By Plane

Walvis Bay Airport (WVB IATA) is located about 15 km east of the city centre. South African Express (formerly operated by Airlink) offers flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg. Taxis from the airport to town cost approximately N$150–200. Some hotels offer shuttle transfers.

By Train

TransNamib operates an overnight passenger service from Windhoek to Walvis Bay via Swakopmund, running several times per week. The journey takes about 11 hours. The Walvis Bay railway station is on the eastern edge of town. Book tickets at TransNamib offices in Windhoek.

By Car / Road

The B2 highway connects Walvis Bay to Swakopmund (35 km north, 20 min) and Windhoek (391 km east, ~5 hours). The road is paved and in good condition throughout. Minibuses from Windhoek arrive at the Walvis Bay taxi rank; the cost is around N$120. Scheduled bus services (Intercape, Econolux) also connect Walvis Bay to major cities in Namibia and South Africa.

Walvis Bay is spread out and not especially walkable between districts. Taxis are available and cost about N$15–25 for short trips within town. Car hire is available at the airport and in town, which is the most practical option for visiting the lagoon, Sandwich Harbour, and nearby attractions. Minibus taxis connect Walvis Bay to Swakopmund for about N$25.

• Walvis Bay Lagoon — A shallow, nutrient-rich wetland just south-west of town, home to tens of thousands of flamingoes, pelicans, and the endangered Damara tern. Best viewed in the early morning or late afternoon. Free.

• Sandwich Harbour (45 km south) — A spectacular bay and lagoon accessible only by 4x4, where dunes meet the sea in dramatic fashion. Huge bird colonies, including flamingoes. Book a guided tour from Walvis Bay or Swakopmund; self-driving is challenging and requires a 4x4 and tide knowledge.

• Walvis Bay Museum (12th Road) — Exhibits on natural science, maritime history, Namib archaeology, gemstones, and local culture. M–F 09:00–17:00, free.

• Dune 7 (6 km east of town) — One of the highest dunes in the area at 125 metres. Popular for sandboarding and photography.

• Pelican Point — The sandy spit protecting the harbour, home to a seal colony and lighthouse. Accessible by 4x4 or boat tour.

• Dolphin and whale watching — Boat tours from the waterfront (e.g., Mola Mola Tours, Laramon Tours) offer cruises to see dolphins, seals, whales (seasonal), and pelicans, often including oysters and sparkling wine.

• Kite surfing and windsurfing — The lagoon offers consistent winds and flat water, making Walvis Bay a top destination for kite surfers. Equipment rental and lessons are available.

• Dune boarding — Buy or rent a board and head to Dune 7 for an inexpensive adrenaline rush.

• Fishing — Rods can be rented locally. A fishing permit is required (N$14 for 30 days, obtainable at the Ministry of Fisheries office, 1st Street, daily 08:00–13:00).

• Surfing — The world-renowned left-hand break at Skeleton Bay (Pelican Point) attracts pro surfers. Requires a 4x4 to reach.

• Crazy Mama's (Sam Nujoma Avenue) — Funky bistro with a beer garden, wood-fired pizza, salads, and vegetarian options. Main courses around N$150.
• Probst Willi Bakery — German-style bakery and café serving excellent sandwiches and pastries. Try the "rawhak" roll.
• The Raft Restaurant (The Esplanade, on a pier) — A large top-class restaurant with superb lagoon views. Wood-fired pizzas, seafood platters, grilled steaks, and a lively bar. A must-visit in Walvis Bay.
• The Boathouse (Pelican Point) — Specialises in fresh oysters and seafood platters.

Walvis Bay's oysters — farmed in the clean, plankton-rich waters of the lagoon — are renowned throughout Southern Africa for their flavour and are a must-try.

The Raft Restaurant has a popular bar area with stunning sunset views over the lagoon. NightCap Bar at Langholm Hotel and Crazy Mama's beer garden offer relaxed drinking. Local Namibian beers (Windhoek Lager, Tafel) are standard. Non-alcoholic options include Bushman's organic iced tea and the local favourite Rock Shandy. Tap water is safe to drink.

• Budget: Walvis Bay Backpackers (9 Esplanade Street) — Dorm beds from N$200. Shared kitchen and lounge.
• Mid-range: Langholm Hotel (18-22 2nd Street West, Lagoon) — Double rooms from N$655. Great service, popular NightCap bar. Protea Hotel by Marriott Pelican Bay (The Esplanade) — Double rooms from N$1,400. Lagoon views, pool, gym.
• Upscale / heritage: Mermaid Boutique Guest House (8 Du Plessis Street) — Luxury suites from N$2,200. Beachfront terrace.

The Town Square Market offers local crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs. Walvis Bay is a good place to buy fresh seafood direct from the harbour. The Salt Company shop sells Walvis Bay salt products. For everyday shopping, the Pick 'n Pay and Spar supermarkets in town cover groceries and supplies.

• Swakopmund (35 km north, 20 min) — Namibia's adventure capital with German colonial charm, excellent restaurants, and desert sports.
• Sandwich Harbour (45 km south, 4x4 required) — A dramatic lagoon where dunes meet the ocean, with massive bird colonies.
• Dune 7 (6 km east) — A 125-metre dune perfect for sandboarding and panoramic views.
• Cape Cross (120 km north, ~1.5 hr) — A huge Cape fur seal colony on the wild Atlantic coast.