It’s a coastline of mostly Namib Desert, where the dunes trundle into the cold Atlantic Ocean. Largely uninhabited with hovering fog rolling in, it isn’t called the Skeleton Coast for nothing.
This is, in fact, it's charm, kilometres and kilometres of National Park and stunning untouched wilderness, shipwrecks, and desert adapted wildlife. There may not be many people living here (except in coastal towns) but there is life and it’s the wonder of it that makes it so special.
It’s a change of pace in any Namibian itinerary from hot, arid and dry areas coming from any direction. Take a stroll on a quiet uncrowded beach, shore fishing is a biggie and it is host to the longest wave on the African continent at Donkey Bay. Experience the largest Cape fur seal colony, one of five Ramsar sites for birding in the wetlands of Walvis Bay and the coastal towns each have their own to show off along with a relaxed, holiday vibe.
Most itineraries in Namibia will include the coast, it’s a highlight with good reason, although it may not deliver your typical beach holiday. If that’s what you’re after then the blue flag beaches of South Africa, where the sand is soft and the water is warmer, is more your thing. Camps Bay in Cape Town, Plettenberg Bay on the Garden Route, the Dolphin Coast in KwaZulu-Natal. There’s no shortage of options and if you still want more, there’s always Mozambique. Dive in.
Technically, yes — but it’s not your typical swim-and-sunbathe experience. The Atlantic Ocean along Namibia’s coast is cold year-round, with strong currents, rough surf and icy water temps (think wetsuit territory!). While brave locals may take a dip now and then, most visitors stick to walking the beach, fishing, or enjoying boat-based activities. If warm water is what you’re after, we’d suggest pairing Namibia with a beach break in South Africa or Mozambique.
Swakopmund is the most popular — a charming mix of beach town, adventure hub and German colonial history. It’s great for quad biking, seafood, and sunset strolls. Walvis Bay, just south, is all about wetlands, flamingos, and lagoon kayaking. Further south, Lüderitz is more remote and full of character, with colourful buildings, historic German architecture, and the eerie ghost town of Kolmanskop nearby. Each offers something different, so it depends on what you’re looking for.
Plenty! Namibia’s coast is more about adventure and nature than tanning and cocktails. You can go quad biking on the dunes, sea kayaking with seals, try your hand at shore fishing, or take a living desert tour to discover dune-adapted wildlife. Birders will love Walvis Bay’s wetlands, and photographers won’t want to miss Sandwich Harbour’s dramatic scenery. Want something thrilling? Book a scenic flight over the Skeleton Coast or skydive over Swakopmund — the views are unbeatable.
"A dream come true"
We had the most amazing family holiday, everything worked so perfectly, the arrangements and accommodation was spectacular!
"Unforgettable trip to Namibia – Thank you Namibia Tours & Safaris!"
We are a group of four from Romania and spent 3 unforgettable weeks in Namibia. We can't recommend them enough, and for any future travels in Namibia or other parts of Africa, we will definitely use their services again.
"We had a great experience"
From the time we put the key in the ignition till we boarded the plane in Windhoek nothing went wrong.
"Unforgettable bird photography trip in Namibia"
It was a fantastic experience, everything was very well organised, went smooth and according to expectations. It was our first self drive in Africa and it was a great, unforgettable time.