Small seaside town where frequent residents include pink flamingos and pelicans

Walvis Bay, or ‘Bay of Whales’, is one of 3 substantial settlements found along Namibia’s 1.600 km Atlantic coastline. This harbour town boasts huge salt fields and a wide lagoon, and is a popular stop for a number of reasons, like its remarkable birding opportunities and dune adventures. This is also where you will find Namibia’s largest harbour and with that, the delights of fresh seafood and sea life cruises that come with it. Its rich history is displayed in museums and monuments, and the waters can be explored with activities like kayaking and kitesurfing.

Highlights

1
Witness hundreds of lesser and greater flamingos dotted around the Walvis Bay Lagoon during summertime.
2
Climb up and slide down Dune 7, the highest dune in Namibia, standing at 383 m.
3
Spot Cape fur seals, African penguins, dolphins, and pelicans on a Walvis Bay harbour cruise.
4
Taste fresh, high-quality seafood like oysters and rock lobsters at one of the local restaurants.
5
Walk along Walvis Bay’s Waterfront shops and experience ocean views from bars and coffee shops.
6
Kayak around Pelican Point peninsula to witness seabirds and ocean mammals in their natural state.

Suggested trip templates

Find it on the map

Best time to go to Walvis Bay

Best
Good
Acceptable
The best time to visit Walvis Bay is in the summertime between November and April when the lesser and greater flamingos migrate to the lagoon. During this time, you can experience the best of birding, swimming, kayaking, and other classic Walvis Bay activities. Although Walvis Bay has a desert climate with dry periods, it still retains enjoyable weather all year round with little chance of rain, meaning you won’t find a bad time to visit this popular destination.

Featured Walvis Bay stays

Pelican Point Lodge

An exclusive lodge located in an old lighthouse on a secluded peninsula
From$569 /ppn
Facilities

Explore stays in Walvis Bay