Walvis Bay With Children: Family Activities

October 31, 2026

Families visiting Walvis Bay will find that most of the fun is wildlife and sand: seals, pelicans, flamingos, dolphins and one very large dune. The sea is cold and the afternoon wind can be strong, so plan outings for the morning and bring jackets, hats and sun cream for every child. Prices are in Namibian dollars (N$), which are pegged one to one to the South African rand.

Catamaran cruise

A catamaran cruise from the Waterfront on Atlantic Street is the easiest wildlife outing with children. Departures are usually at about 09:00 and the trip takes 3 to 4 hours, so bring snacks and something warm. Published operator rates include a lower child fare for ages 4 to 12. One operator listed N$1,200 for adults and N$660 for children in 2024, so expect roughly N$1,200 to 1,500 for an adult now and check what applies to your children. Seals and pelicans often come close to the boat, and bottlenose, Heaviside’s and dusky dolphins are regular sightings. Tell children to keep their hands inside and never to feed or touch the animals.

Pelican Point kayaking

Pelican Point Kayaking describes its half-day paddle as suitable for families. It leaves Walvis Bay at 08:00, drives about 45 km by 4x4 and paddles near the seal colony. It states no minimum age and says no experience is needed, but sea conditions vary and the wind builds later in the day, so ask about your children’s ages and the day’s conditions before booking. Seals may come close to the kayaks; keep your distance. See the Pelican Point Kayaking site .

Dune 7

Dune 7 is about 10 km east of town and rises roughly 380 to 388 m. The climb takes about 25 to 50 minutes, and older children usually enjoy it. An entry fee applies, differs by nationality and age and includes a lower rate for children, so check at the gate. The sand gets very hot by midday, so go early or late and put everyone in closed shoes. Sandboarding sessions are run by licensed operators for older children.

The lagoon shore

Walking the flat lagoon shore at Esplanade Park and the Waterfront is free and needs no booking. Tens of thousands of flamingos feed in the shallows, and pelicans are easy to spot. Mid to high tide often brings the birds closer. The water is a cold, shallow tidal mudflat, so children should not wade in, and the open beaches have rip currents and cold water.

The Raft

The Raft is a restaurant on stilts over the lagoon, reached along a pier or by boat. A hotel listing calls it child-friendly. Keep a close eye on small children along the pier.

Dolphin Park

Dolphin Park, also called Dolphin Beach, is a municipal resort with a swimming pool, hydro-slides, chalets and braai facilities. It holds no dolphins. Not every slide may be running, so check opening hours and what is open before you go.

Booking

Find family-friendly cruises and tours on GetYourGuide and confirm age limits with the operator before you pay.