Things to Do in Walvis Bay

Walvis Bay sits along Namibia's Atlantic coast as the country's principal port and a surprisingly charming destination that most travelers underestimate. The city occupies a strategic position where the Namib Desert meets the ocean, creating an almost surreal landscape of towering sand dunes that literally spill into the sea. What makes this place genuinely special isn't just the dramatic scenery - though watching flamingos wade through shallow lagoons with desert mountains as a backdrop is pretty unforgettable - but the fact that it serves as a gateway to some of southern Africa's most unique wildlife experiences. The town itself has a practical, working-port atmosphere that grows on you, especially once you realize it's one of the few places on earth where you can kayak with seals in the morning and sandboard down massive dunes in the afternoon. The harbor area bustles with fishing boats and cargo ships, while the lagoon on the southern edge of town creates a protected wetland that attracts an incredible variety of bird life. It's the kind of place that rewards travelers who stick around for more than a quick photo stop.

The dining scene revolves heavily around fresh seafood, with local restaurants serving excellent oysters, crayfish, and line fish caught daily by the harbor's fishing fleet. The Raft Restaurant stands out for its seafood platters and harbor views, while Anchors @ The Jetty offers more casual dining with outdoor seating overlooking the water. For whatever reason, several excellent German bakeries operate in town, reflecting Namibia's colonial history and providing great coffee and pastries. Local supermarkets stock everything needed for self-catering, which many visitors choose given the town's limited restaurant options compared to larger cities.

April through October provides the most comfortable weather with mild temperatures, minimal rainfall, and excellent wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around water sources. The winter months (June-August) can be surprisingly cool with morning temperatures requiring jackets, but clear skies and calm seas make this ideal for marine activities. Summer (November-March) brings higher temperatures and occasional rainfall, though it's also when flamingo numbers peak at the lagoon. Interestingly, the desert location means dramatic temperature swings between day and night year-round, so layered clothing always makes sense regardless of season.