Walvis Bay Activities: Sea, Lagoon and Dunes

October 31, 2026

Walvis Bay is Namibia’s main port, on the central coast with Swakopmund 30 to 35 km to the north along a paved road. Activities here revolve around the cold Atlantic, the shallow lagoon and the dune belt just inland. Prices are quoted in Namibian dollars (N$), tied one to one to the South African rand, and rand notes are taken almost everywhere. Drive on the left. Fog is common and often burns off by midday, so pack warm layers even in summer.

Kayaking to Pelican Point

Pelican Point Kayaking departs Walvis Bay at 08:00 for a half-day trip. A 4x4 carries the group about 45 km past the wetlands, flamingos, pelicans and salt works to the sandspit that shelters the bay, where you paddle near a seal colony of tens of thousands of Cape fur seals. The operator states no minimum age and says no experience is needed. Mornings are the norm because the wind usually picks up later in the day, and sea conditions vary. Seals and pelicans often come close to the kayak, so keep your distance and never touch or feed them. Mola Mola Safaris also lists a kayak package that combines a catamaran transfer, a 4x4 drive and brunch; ask it for the current rate. Details are on the Pelican Point Kayaking site .

Catamaran cruises

Cruises leave from the Waterfront on Atlantic Street, usually at about 09:00 (a few listings say 08:30), and last 3 to 4 hours. Expect to pay roughly N$1,200 to 1,500 per adult, so check the current rate with the operator. Seals and pelicans are constant companions, and bottlenose, Heaviside’s and dusky dolphins are regular sightings. Sunfish and leatherback turtles are reported, while humpback and southern right whales are seasonal, about July to November, and never guaranteed. Oysters and sparkling wine are commonly served on board. Operators in listings include Catamaran Charters, Mola Mola Safaris and Levo Tours, which is based at the Walvis Bay Tourism Centre on Union Street. See the Mola Mola Safaris tour list for its marine, kayak and 4x4 options.

Sandwich Harbour by 4x4

Sandwich Harbour lies about 55 km south of Walvis Bay, where dunes meet the sea and the lagoon. Since 1 April 2026 it has been open only through a registered operator under a 25-year concession, so book a guided tour. The tide decides the route, and the guide sets it. Half-day, full-day and sunset trips are offered, and a half day typically costs roughly N$2,700 per adult. Park and conservation fees set by the ministry from 1 April 2026 are N$50 for a Namibian adult, N$100 for a SADC adult and N$150 for other foreign adults, with lower rates for ages 9 to 15 and N$50 for a private vehicle of up to ten seats. Operator charges come on top and fees can change. Sandwich Harbour 4x4 has its office at the Waterfront; see the Sandwich Harbour 4x4 site .

Dune 7

Dune 7 rises about 380 to 388 m from the dune belt around 10 km east of town, inside the Dorob National Park. An entry fee applies and it differs by nationality and age, so check at the gate. The climb takes roughly 25 to 50 minutes. The sand gets very hot by midday, so go early or late and wear closed shoes. Quad rides and sandboarding are run by licensed operators, and quads may only use the marked corridors near Dune 7, Langstrand and Dolfynstrand, never the beach or Pelican Point.

Kitesurfing and windsurfing

The lagoon is a recognised wind sport spot, and Namibia Kite Center and other schools appear in listings. The water is cold, so wear a long wetsuit, and beginners should take lessons. The lagoon is a shallow tidal mudflat and is not a place for swimming, snorkelling or scuba. The open Atlantic has rip currents and cold water, so do not treat any local beach as a safe swimming beach.

Watching flamingos for free

Walk the lagoon shore at Esplanade Park and the Waterfront, where tens of thousands of flamingos feed in the shallows. Tide matters in practice, and mid to high tide often brings the birds closest to the path.

Booking

Compare guided cruises and 4x4 trips on GetYourGuide and book early for morning departures.