Walvis Bay is a lively port town and Namibia’s second largest city, which is protected from wind and waves by the long arm of Pelican Point. With a tidal lagoon filled with seabirds and flamingos, and a nearby seal colony, Walvis Bay is a top spot for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts. Things to do here include kayaking past seals, surfing down dramatic sand dunes, and dining on fresh seafood. While less tourist-centered than nearby Swakopmund, there are still plenty of tour operators and accommodation options.
A strong current brings chilly water north from the Southern Ocean, so the desert surrounds of Walvis Bay are tempered by cool winds. The dry season starts in May and winter temperatures are typically a comfortable 68°F (20°C). To see seals, visit in November or December when baby seals are born and play in the water with their mothers. Just be sure to pack a raincoat for the summer showers.
In Walvis Bay, many of the main sights are on the city’s outskirts, so choose tours that include transport or hire a car—it’s always handy to have a car in Namibia, as the cities are spaced out and transit can be unreliable. Many Walvis Bay restaurants, cafés, and hotels are clustered around the northern end of the Flamingo Lagoon waterfront, so they’re easy to walk to. Parking can be limited in this area.
Walvis Bay’s Pink Lakes are a popular spot for photos—they’re actually part of the nearby salt factory, but that doesn’t mean you can’t pose for a quick shot. They get their rosy color from the mix of salt and algae in the water and are best visited when the sun is shining, otherwise, their color can be underwhelming. You can visit them as part of a tour.
