Walvis Bay

Affectionately pronounced "Wallfish" Bay by locals, Walvis Bay is home to an abundance of iconic birds such as pelicans and flamingos, as well as being within a stone's throw of sand dunes that will take your breath away. It is a town characterised by open spaces, breathtaking beauty and plant and animal life that you won't find anywhere else in the world. It is also an important logistics hub, with the port of Walvis Bay enabling imports and exports of various commodities.
 

A brief history of the area

Walvis Bay was occupied by the British in 1884, and as part of the Cape Colony, Walvis Bay became part of the Union of South Africa when the South Africa Act was signed in 1910. When Namibia became an independent nation in 1990, it laid claim to this valuable area, and eventually in 1994, Walvis Bay took its rightful place as part of the Republic of Namibia.

Climate

If you don't like rain, the desert ambience of life in Walvis Bay will be perfect for you. With an average of zero days of rainfall every month of the year, Walvis Bay is also a haven for those who enjoy cooler climes. There is very little variation in the weather from month to month, with year-round maximum temperatures averaging between 18°C and 22°C. During the coldest months of June to September, average minimum temperatures will drop to about 11°C, while January to March sees minimums of about 16°C.

Schools in the area

There are plenty of great schools in and around Walvis Bay that can help your little one learn big things. Primary schools in the area include Laerskool Walvis Bay, Tutalen Primary School and Kuisebmund Primary School, amongst others.

When your child becomes a teen and it's time for high school, Walvis Bay Private High School and Duinesig High School are among the options available for parents to choose from. The International School of Walvis Bay takes learners right from pre-school to A levels.

Healthcare in the area

There is no shortage of healthcare providers in Walvis Bay. Welwitschia Hospital is there to meet your needs in any emergency, and there are an assortment of doctors, dentists, optometrists and other medical professionals in Walvis Bay to ensure that residents and visitors are well cared for.

Shopping centres

Shopping in Walvis Bay got a facelift in 2017 when Dunes Mall opened its doors. This centre has been designed with the desert in mind, with wider-than-average parking spaces to accommodate the 4x4s commonly driven by Walvis Bay locals.

Distance from key points (Airport)

The driving distance from the centre of Walvis Bay to Walvis Bay International Airport is just over 16km. In average conditions, it will take you about 15 minutes to get there.

Restaurants

To call Walvis Bay anything less than a foodie's paradise would be an insult. A firm favourite amongst locals and visitors alike is The Raft, which is built on stilts at the end of its own jetty. We recommend that you order one of the wood-fired pizzas - between the delicious food and the unique ambience, it's a culinary experience that you won't soon forget. To quote the website of Anchors @ The Jetty Restaurant, another Walvis Bay favourite, "we keep it fresh and simple, and the view isn't bad either". This provides a perfect summary of the harbour views and delicious meals that you will find here. There is an abundance of other restaurants to choose from, so you will have no problem finding something to tantalise anyone's taste buds.

Fun things to do

Looking for a fun way to spend a day in and around Walvis Bay? The area is renowned for the abundance of outdoor activities that are on offer.

1. Climb Dune 7
Dune 7, Namibia's highest sand dune, is just outside Walvis Bay. Climbing this sand dune leads to a great sense of achievement and brings you stunning views of the desert.

2. Quadbiking
Experiencing the desert on a quad bike is an experience you won't soon forget. With nothing but sand as far as the eye can see, you'll get the adrenaline rush of a lifetime.

3. Camel rides
Another unique way to experience the desert is from the perspective of a camel's back. Desert Explorers is one of a number of companies offering camel rides between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund.

Make Walvis Bay your home. Let it be your story.
With its temperate climate and vast array of things to do, Walvis Bay is regarded by many as an ideal place to live. Seeff Walvis Bay has a variety of properties for sale and to rent in Walvis Bay. Contact us today and allow us to help you find your piece of Walvis Bay.