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Things to do in Swakopmund: The beach with a view of coastal town

THE MOST POPULAR THINGS TO DO IN SWAKOPMUND, NAMIBIA

14th April 2023

Last Updated on 1st March 2026 by Bejal

In This Article

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  • Pin & Save
  • Where is Swakopmund located?
  • When is the best time to visit Swakopmund?
  • How long to stay in Swakopmund?
  • How to get to Swakopmund
  • The most popular things to do in Swakopmund
    • Explore the town on foot
    • Local History At The Swakopmund Museum
    • Take a Coastal Walk 
    • Spend the day on the beach
    • Township Tour
    • Watch the Sunset
  • Things to do in and around Swakopmund
    • Spot the Flamingoes at Walvis Bay
    • Climbing Dune 7
    • Dolphin & Whale Watching 
    • Experience The Skeleton Coast
    • Spot Seals at Cape Cross
    • The Views Of Welwitschias (Moon Landscape)
    • Driving the dunes experience in a 4×4
    • Visit Spitzkoppe
  • Adventurous Activities to do in Swakopmund
    • Skydiving over the Namibia Desert
    • 4 x 4 Drive in the desert
    • Quad Bike Riding in the dunes
    • Take A Kayak Tour
    • Try Sandboarding
    • Scenic flight over the dunes
  • What’s the one must do tour in Swakopmund?
    • Turnstone Tours Spotlight: Sandwich Harbour & Walvis Bay
  • Where to Stay in Swakopmund
    • Strand Hotel Swakopmund // Luxury
    • Hansa Hotel // Mid-range
    • Swakopmund Guest House // Good Value
  • Where To Eat & drink In Swakopmund
    • The Jetty 1905 Restaurant
    • Brewer & Butcher
    • Ocean Cellar
    • Bar Zonder Naam
  • Namibia Dunes Craft Brewery
  • Be-lavie Tips For Swakopmund
  • Things to do in Swakopmund Round-Up
  • Related Reading to things to do in Swakopmund
  • Travel Planning Resources For Your Trip
  • À bientôt
  • Pin & Save

Swakopmund is one of Namibia’s most famous coastal towns, located about 350km west of the country’s capital, Windhoek. Swakopmund or Swakop as referred to by Namibians is one stop that must be slotted into an Namibia road trip itinerary. This guide will help you decide on the best things to do in Swakopmund and how to spend your time in in te area, whether you want to take it easy or partake in some of the many activities on offer.

The town has so much to offer, in terms of its striking German architecture, discovering wildlife experiences and Swakopmund is also know as the adventure capital of the country. You can try skydiving, sand boarding kayaking, quad biking and so much more. It’s also a great place to unwind on the long never-ending stretch of sandy beach for a couple of days respite.

Bejal walking along Sandwich Harbour beach

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Where is Swakopmund located?

Swakopmund is the capital of the Erongo Region in Western Namibia and is around a four hours drive from the capital, Windhoek. It’s made up of around 34,000 inhabitants and is best known as the activity centre/capital of Namibia. The coastal desert location, makes it perfect for those who like outdoor pursuits but also it’s a wonderful place to explore the wildlife experiences in the vicinity.

Things to do in Swakopmund: Coastal Tourist Picture Frame

When is the best time to visit Swakopmund?

Although Swakopmund can be visited anytime of the year, it’s the most busiest in holiday seasons around December – February and if possible best to avoid the crowds and pricier accommodation options.

June-August is a much more calmer time to visit as the temperatures are just right, at around 20°C, the cost of accommodation is a lot less and the crowds will be a lot less.

We visited at the end of September and it was absolutely perfect, albeit a little windy but then again due to the coastal location Swakopmund is always a little breezy and cool – nothing that a warm layer can’t fix!

How long to stay in Swakopmund?

Usually if travelling to Swakopmund as part of a road trip as the majority of travellers, then three to four days is enough time to get a great feel for the area. If you have time by all means it’s quite easy to spend a week here, soaking up the beach vibes.

Things to do in Swakopmund:Sandwich Harbour with a view of Atlantic Ocean

How to get to Swakopmund

The most cost-effective  and easiest way to travel around Namibia is by car. Most overseas travellers will collect their vehicles at Windhoek airport and embark on a road trip spanning the country. As mentioned previously Swakopmund is situated around 300Km from Windhoek with driving time estimated at about four hours. 

The most popular way of getting to Swakopmund is via Sossusvlei, especially if taking the conventional road trip route. Sossusvlei lies around 400 Km south of Swakopmund with a driving time of around five hours on a gravel road.

You can by all means fly into Swakopmund airport directly or fly to Wallis Bay airport, which is around 47 Km from the centre of Swakopmund. These airports are pretty small and accept internal flights from within the country as well as private charters.

Another option of getting to Swakopmund, especially for solo travellers is via a small group tour which incorporates a well determined itinerary with transportation.

The most popular things to do in Swakopmund

The beauty of Swakopmund is that it offers some of the most varied things to do and attractions in Namibia. From colonial German architectural, a pier, waterfront promenading to nearby coastal gems. The coastal road is sandwiched by dunes on one side with the force of the Atlantic Oceans fringe on the other side. It’s an impressive landscape from far above. Day excursions are easily accessible to Wallis Bay (30 Km South of Swakopmund) or up to the north for fishing experiences or even to Cape Cross which is home to one of the worlds largest seal colonies.

Explore the town on foot

Swakopmund is one of the fewest places you can just take a walk in Namibia safely. It’s stretch of coastline is perfect for promenading as well as wondering into the city centre shops, cafes and restaurants. All the main attractions in the city are pretty close together so are all walkable, therefore the best thing to do is get out and explore to get your orientation of this cool town.

Himba market in Swakopmund

The architectural highlights of Swakopmund are:

The Prinzessin Rupprechtbuilding Now a private B&B with the original building being completed in 1901 and was used as a military hospital.

Find the location of: The Old Prison and State House Worth a fleeting visit to spot the architecture.

Woermannhaus situated in Bismarck Street, it was erected in 1894. During 1903/04 the Woermannhaus was extended and extravagant wood panelled offices were added. The Damara Tower served as a water tower, landmark and navigation point for the ships of the Woermann line. In 1921 the South West Africa Administration bought the Woermannhaus and converted it into a school hostel. It was later restored and transformed into the public library and art centre that it is today.

Swakopmund Lighthouse

The Lighthouse which is close to the main museum and stands tall overlooking the coast naturally.

Hohenzollern Building Built in 1906 and initially served as a hotel. At present it is sectional title flats.

The Railway Station which has been Swakopmund hotel from 1994 and was  declared a National monument in 1972 the building, designed by C. Schmidt

Kaserne The original building served as a barracks. The design is similar to Alte Feste in Windhoek and Fort Namutoni in Etosha Park and the building was completed in 1906.

Things to do in Swakopmund: Local German Architecture

Local History At The Swakopmund Museum

Swakopmund Museum was established in 1951, by Dr Alfons Weber and now has grown to be the biggest private museum in Namibia. The museum is the where to go for your regional history; from indigenous plants, wildlife, how the local tribal people live, old motorised vehicles and so much more.

It’s a must-visit when you’re in Swakopmund and you’re guaranteed to learn so much about Namibia, if like us you are pretty unfamiliar with the area.

Swakopmund Museum exterior

Address: 8GFF+M8R, Strand St, Swakopmund, Namibia

Google Maps Location: The Swakopmund Museum

Website: Swakopmund Museum

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-17:00

Admission Fee: NAD 30 ($2)

Take a Coastal Walk 

One of the most beautiful things about Swakopmund is its coastline and promenading is a great way to spend a leisurely afternoon. Grab a photo opportunity at the Swakopmund location frame or stop and grab a coffee and food at one of the many food trucks dotted on the coast paths.

Head down the jetty for a walk but hold on, you may be blown away – it’ pretty choppy at the end! Swakopmund can sometimes be a little cool and you’re more likely to feel it if travelling from Sossusvlei desert so bring layers.

Things to do in Swakopmund: Bejal walking down Jetty

Be-lavie Tip: You do get lovely views of the town from the end of the jetty if you look back

Spend the day on the beach

The beautiful golden sandy beaches and dunes in Swakopmund go on for miles and although the sea is pretty cold and not suitable for swimming, The beach is great for relaxing. The temperatures are at a high of around 18°C in summer and 14°C in winter. 

Things to do in Swakopmund: Bejal sitting on bench overlooking the pier

Township Tour

Taking a tour of a township on the outskirts of Swakopmund is a good way of meeting some of the locals in the area as well as learn about their tribes and culture. The tour allows you the experience of meeting the Damara, Nama and the Herrero tribal people it’s quite an eye opening experience that provides a totally different perspective to what you’ll see in Swakopmund itself. The tour incorporates visiting a local school. Sample some traditional homemade specialities as well as listen to the local choir.  The tour is a fantastic way to immerse yourself into the culture of the locals and their daily life.

Book a Township Tour

Watch the Sunset

Swakoopmund is home to the best sunsets over the ocean. A great spot is to catch the sunset on the beach along from where the main jetty is. It does get pretty breezy here so wrap up.

Swakopmund Sunset

Things to do in and around Swakopmund

. If you have a car you have the advantage of being able to explore the wildlife and surrounding landscapes for a couple of hours out of town, otherwise, there are plenty of guided tours and experiences available that can provide a guide plus transportation for you.

Spot the Flamingoes at Walvis Bay

Around 40 KM south of Swakopmund, there’s a small town called Wallis Bay and is a great place to see flamingo.

The best time to see the beautiful flamingo (both white and pink ) is between November and April. December to Match is classed as the peak season with thousands upon thousands of birds flocking to the area.

It’s easy to get a great glimpse of the birds from the promenade or you can head to the tidal pool at Pelican Point to capture some great photography of these stunningly elegant birds.

Location: Walvis Bay

Bejal with Flamingoes at Walvis Bay

Climbing Dune 7

This has to be one of the must-do things when in the area. Dune seven is located around 35 km south of Swakopmund centre and easily accessible if you want to drive. There’s a car park. Sunset is a great time to visit but never feels too crowded and it’s a great photography spot to witness the sun going down on the top of the dune!

Location: Climbing Dine 7

Dolphin & Whale Watching 

From Walvis Bay you can book yourself a Catamaran tour which will enable you to see more diverse wildlife such as whales, seals, sunfish, dolphins as well as leatherback turtles.

Whale watching is best during the winter season go July-November and you should get a sighting of Humpback Whales and Southern Right whales. This is quite a popular activity but for full disclosure thus was not something we did so can’t personally comment on in detail.

Book a Catamaran Tour

Experience The Skeleton Coast

The skeleton coast is a secluded stretch of coastline in Namibia and a landscape worth seeing for its uniquenss.  It gets its name from a number of shipwrecks which can be seen on the coast.

The most famous of wrecks, Zeila is well preserved and is located pretty close to the shore so you can spot it easily when the tide is out. 

Zeila can be found around 60 Km north of Swakopmund and is a pretty easy drive on a main tarmac  road. It’s close to Henties Bay, a quiet coastal town with holiday residences.

One of the most popular activities along the skeleton coast is fishing. It would be worth looking into hiring rods if this is something that interests you.

Location: The Skeleton Coast

The Zeila Shipwreck near Henties Bay

Spot Seals at Cape Cross

One of the most popular and not-to-miss things to do around Swakopmund is to head to the nature reserve, known as Cape Cross. It has the largest colony of Cape fur seals.

The breeding season runs from January to March and this is of course the best time to visit. You’ll see an abundance of seal cubs sliding around the area.

Visitors should stick to teh specified paths to spot the seals, so not to disturb them, but be aware the area can be pretty smelly if you haven’t encountered seals before. 

Things to do in Swakopmund: Cape Cross Seals

Be-lavie Tip: Cape cross is a wonderful place to take photography and close-up shots of the seal

Distance from Swakopmund: 130km north

Location: Cape Cross Seal Reserve:

Opening Hours: daily from 10 am to 5 pm

Admission Fee: NAD 150/US$10 per person, NAD 50/US$4 per car

The Views Of Welwitschias (Moon Landscape)

This area can either be visited as a day trip or you’ll be very close by when driving from Windhoek or Sossusvlei to Swakopmund.

Once you see this landscape, you’ll understand exactly why it’s given the name it has. It really does look like the surface of the moon with craters.

There’s a lookout point from which you’ll be faced with a plethora of rocky hills which appear to be carved by the Swakop River. The valley is home to some rare plant species as well as World War I remains, mines, unusual rock formations. It’s possible to visit this but allocate half a day at least or four hours.

Look out for the Welwitschia Mirabilis, which are unique plants to the Namibian Desert. They are referred to as living fossils as their average life span is 400-500 years, however some Welwitschia Mirabilis can reach a grand old age of 1500 years.

You can get a permit to visit from the Ritterburg Office in Swakopmund but we think the easier way of visiting the area of Moon landscape and Welwitschia is by a guided tour from Walvis Bay which is located close to Swakopmund.

Book a Moon Landscape Tour

Moon landscape Namibia
Welwitschia Plant

Distance from Swakopmund: 40 km East

Google Map Location: Moon Landscape

Driving the dunes experience in a 4×4

The desert is home to a number of endemic species and a great way to see small species is by taking a living dunes tour experience with a qualified guide. Under the expert knowledge of a guide, you’ll be sure to see snakes, beetles, lizards and spiders. Tours last around 3.5 hours and pick-up can be from your accommodation.

Book a living desert experience

Visit Spitzkoppe

Translated to German, Spitzkoppe means “pointed dome”. Spitzkoppe is known for its granite peaks and uniquerock formations. The highest peak is around 1728 m. It’s an easy self-drive or there are small group organised tours from Swakopmund as part of a day trip.

Many people camp here for the night as there is no light pollution in the dark with just the twinkle of the stars.

Spitzkoppe Arch

Location from Swakopmund: 150 km northeast

Google Map Location: Spitzkoppe

Book a Spitzkoppe guided day tour

Adventurous Activities to do in Swakopmund

Swakopmund is the adventure capital of Namibia and is made for adrenalin-junkies! If this is right up your street then you may want to book into do one or more of the activities below.

Skydiving over the Namibia Desert

If like us, you love adrenalin filled adventures to the max, there is nothing more hair raising quite literally than this activity. It is worth bearing in mind that for obvious reasons this requires quite a generous budget but safety is paramount.

There really is no better way than to experience the Namib Desert free-falling from 2000 m for 30-40 seconds and getting a Birdseye view of where the desert and ocean meet is the experience of your life.

Book Tandem Skydiving over the Namibian Desert

4 x 4 Drive in the desert

If you love peaks and troughs, then Sandwich Bay via the skeleton coast and moon landscape  is a great activity to combine your 4 x 4 experience. 

You will need to check that you have a full tank of petrol, good tread on your tyres as well as the correct tyre pressure. Ensure you have a spare tyre for your 4×4 we well as sustenance supplies.

Personally we feel, driving the dunes requires experience so a guided tour of the area is a safer option, especially if you are not feeling too confident in driving in dunes.

Book a 4×4 sand dunes tour to Sandwich Harbour

Quad Bike Riding in the dunes

Riding quad bikes is a pretty exhilarating experience so if this sounds like fun to you book yourself onto a quad biking tour. Definitely adrenalin pumping stuff and great fun for older children as well as adults.

Book a Quad bike tour through the desert

Take A Kayak Tour

Marine life lovers will be fond of this marine life observing experience. View dolphins, flamingos, pelicans to name a few. Kayaking is a great way to get up close and personal with the beautiful marine life of Swakopmund. 

The kayaking experience can be combines with the 4×4 desert drive, this saving you time if you are not staying in Swakopmund for long and ensures a great days itinerary.

Book Kayaking tour around Bird Rock Island

Try Sandboarding

Slide down sand dunes on a sand board. It’s definitely not as easy as it looks but a lot of fun and walking back up the dunes after each slide is a bit of a physical challenge, especially if you’ve spent a lot of time in the car driving.

Scenic flight over the dunes

One of the most extravagant things to do, if money allows, is to take a scenic flight over the desert. Bear in mind that there will have to be at least four of you although two maybe acceptable if the pilot agrees. The price will be much more if there is less people but a flight over the Namib desert is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I hear its well worth the money and the views are absolutely phenomenal.

What’s the one must do tour in Swakopmund?

Turnstone Tours Spotlight: Sandwich Harbour & Walvis Bay

One of the best tours we experienced during our time in Swakopmund, is the Sandwich Harbour & Wallis Bay full day tour with a small independently run local company, Touchstone Tours.

Namib desert Sign as you enter Sandwich Harbour site

The tour starts when you’re picked up from your accommodation at 08:30am (drop off is at around 16:00)

The drive starts at a stunning dune chain next to the Atlantic Ocean, traversing the original railway line between Swakopmund and Wallis Bay. You’ll be talked through the formation of ‘the world’s oldest desert’ –  its origins, composition and movements and erosions.

The first stop is ‘Bird Rock’ a guano island inhabited by about 200,000 birds. The Lagoons at Walvis Bay and at Sandwich Harbour have been designated as ‘Wetlands of International Importance’ (or ‘Ramsar sites’), while the ‘Bird Paradise’ at Walvis Bay is a key nesting and feeding site for thousands of visiting and resident birds. 

Frequent surveys, overseen by expert ornithologists from Namibia and South Africa, regularly record numbers of Flamingo, Plover and Tern between Walvis Bay Lagoon and Sandwich Harbour. Other  favourites,  such as Pelican, Avocet, Turnstone and a huge variety of waders can be seen, with numbers peaking at around 170,000 in November. Several endemic species, such as the Dune Lark and the Damara Tern, are also in the vicinity.

Things to do in Swakopmund: 3 Flamingo at Walvis Bay

Following Walvis Bay, it’s time to jot the Kuiseb Delta. This unique ecosystem is dotted with archeological sites, 450 year-old animal tracks, wind blown graves and magnificent dunes.

Steep 70m dune at Sandwich Harbour

Slightly north of Sandwich Harbour lies Garnet Beach aka the pink salt plains. Here the pink colour of the sand is derived from garnets brought in by the sea and are too heavy to be picked up by the wind

Things to do in Swakopmund: Garnet beach en route to Sandwich Harbour
Garnet beach minerals
Bejal on Garnet Beach

Next the tour takes you to Sandwich Bay. This crosses barren salt pans and vegetation-covered hummock dunes that shelter small groups of oryx, Springbok, Ostrich, Jackal and the occasional brown hyena. Peregrine falcons, pale chanting goshawks and black-breasted snake eagles can sometimes be seen hunting small mammals (such as gerbils and three-striped-mice) that share the dunes with a fascinating variety of desert-adapted insects, reptiles and plants.

The trees of teh Namib Desert at Sandwich Harbour

Sandwich Harbour is described as inaccessible! Spring tides and shifting sands ensure an unpredictable route, but as you approach the towering, wind-sculptured dunes at the edge of Sandwich Harbour, there is a sense of entering a different world.

Sandwich harbour panoramic

All that is left of the old whaling station and its community of traders and fishermen, is the freshwater lagoon, a deserted building with the unusua greenery of this unique coastal wetland.

Dune and Atlantic ocean at Sandwich Harbour

At sandwich Harbour, you’ll get a chance to climb the 70 metre dune where you’ll get some fantastic view of the Atlantic ocean and a spot of exercise. Don’t worry its not as hard as climbing Big Daddy in Sossusvlei

Bejal on Sand Dunes at Sandwich Harbour

This is the setting for your picnic – a large hamper full of homemade cakes, savouries, salads, fruit and drinks – followed by a walk along the Lagoon (an official marine reserve) or a scramble up the towering dunes. If you’re keen on birds, the Lagoon and its surrounds are something of a wonderland.  Over 40,000 birds, 34 different species have been recorded in this area. For wave-watchers, it’s usual to see seals and dolphins here, while sightings of whales are also an occasional treat.

Bejal facing Atlantic ocean on sand dunes

Rudy our guide was. Local and incredibly knowledgeable, patient and willing to answer all our questions. 

Rudy, tour guide with picnic lunch at Sandwich Harbour

Post lunch experience the thrill of riding the sheer highs and lows of the sand dunes before heading back to your accommodation.

Contact: Turnstone Tours

Where to Stay in Swakopmund

Swakopmund has a whole host of accommodation suitable for all budgets. In fact many of the guest houses are very reasonably priced and a stones throw from the coast. Here a re a few great options 

Hotel Jetty exterior
The Jetty Hotel

Strand Hotel Swakopmund // Luxury

Located at the promenade with views of the ocean, Strand Hotel features a spa, three restaurants and bars. It offers a 24-hour front desk and conference facilities.

Elegantly furnished, the rooms are equipped with air conditioning, minibars and TV. Guests can enjoy sea or garden views. 

The hotel has a deli restaurant, a seafood restaurant and a small brewery, which also specialises in Namibian and German meat dishes. Drinks and snacks can be enjoyed at the lounge bar or at the pavilion on the beach. Room service is available.

The spa offers a variety of massages and also features a rooftop garden with water features. Guests can work out complementary in the hotel’s fitness centre

The hotel also has access to a private beach for residents and service is second to none.

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Location: A.Schad Promenade, Swakopmund, Namibia. Tel. +264 64 411 4000

Google Map Location: The Strand Hotel

Website: The Strand Hotel

Price Range: £250-£500 per night

Review & Book The Strand Hotel

Hansa Hotel // Mid-range

Located along the Atlantic coast within a 15 minutes’ walk from Palm Beach, Hansa Hotel Swakopmund features two restaurants, a bar and terrace. It has a garden and offers free WiFi in all areas.

Hansa Hotel’s Equestrian Room serves breakfast and dinner offering cuisine comprising of seafood and grills. Guests can enjoy a drink at the Bar or relax whilst reading with their favourite book in the private lounge.

Free private parking is available when pre-booked and an airport shuttle can be arranged upon request. Swakopmund Airport is a 10-minute drive away.

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Location: 3 Hendrik Witbooi, Swakopmund, Tel. +264 64 414 200

Google Map Location: Hansa Hotel

Website: Hansa Hotel

Price Range: £80-£120

Review & Book Hansa Hotel

Swakopmund Guest House // Good Value

A wonderful homely guesthouse five minutes walk from the pier and coast with a range of well priced rooms, luxury rooms as well as suites. The rooms are located in beautiful landscaped gardens with ample parking outside. The staff are very friendly and you can enjoy a delicious cooked to order breakfast each morning. They also offer a well-priced laundry service.

Eco-friendly Lodges in Namibia: Swakopmund Guest House gardens
Swakopmund Guest House Room

Location: Hendrik Witbooi 35, Swakopmund, Tel +264 (0)6446 2008
Google Map Location: Swakopmund Guest House

Website : Swakopmund Guest House

Price Range £70 -£90

Review & Book Swakopmund Guest House

Where To Eat & drink In Swakopmund

Swakopmund is a wonderful melting pot of food and much of it concentrates around seafood due to it’s coastal location. It’s possible to find a varied range of eateries and drinks spots in the town to suit all tastes. The menu specialises in a range of seafood dishes.

The Jetty 1905 Restaurant

This restaurant comes with a location hard to beat as it’s located right on the historic jetty of Swakopmund which was built in 1905 and renovated in 2010. The restaurant also overlooks Swakopmund’s coastline as well as the endless horizon of the ocean. The menu at The Jetty consists of seafood dishes with sushi steak, a good mix of vegetarian offerings too. The service is quick and very attentive. 

Vegetarian Sushi at The Jetty 1905 Restaurant

Be-lavie Recommends: vegetable tempura and avocado California Rolls, avocado Maki, Greek salad, vegetable stir-fry and apply crumble tart to finish. They also make a delicious hot chocolate if you fancy something a little lighter to end the meal on.

If you are a sea-food lover then your experience will be very different as The Jetty does a wonderful choice of fresh seafood.

Location: A, 1905 On the Jetty Bridge, Swakopmund.

Google Map Location: The Jetty 1905 Restaurant

Website: The Jetty 1905 Restaurant

Price Range: ££

Reservations: Essential

Brewer & Butcher

Associated with the well-known Strand Hotel with coastal view, Brewer and Butcher, as the name suggests is one for the beer and meat lover. The variety of game and beer is huge. They also serve the traditional Namibian Kapana grilled meats. There are a few vegetarian sides and dishes but the concentration is mainly on meat.

Service was a little slow on our visit, it was a Saturday night and as we didn’t book, we ended up sitting on the outdoor terrace which is ace for people watching. Blankets are provided. The open kitchen also adds an element of drama as you can see the meat being cooked.

Brewer & Butcher burger with fries on terrace

Be-lavie Recommends: The vegetarian burger with crumbed three bean patty, marinated cucumber ribbons and homemade hummus with roasted red peppers & shoestring fries. They also serve with this a side of onion rings.

Location: Molen Weg, Swakopmund, Tel. +264 64 411 4512

Google Map Location: Brewer & Butcher

Website: https://www.strandhotelswakopmund.com/pages/brewer-and-butcher/

Price Range: ££

Reservations: Essential

Ocean Cellar

One of the best restaurants in Swakopmund and located on the waterfront, Ocean cellar of course has a great range of seafood but also some great options. The menu is extensive and caters well for vegetarians. The staff are incredibly friendly and accommodating and are on hand to pair your food with local and South Africa wines. The decor is light and airy. It’s a restaurant you can dress up for, especially on the weekends.

Vegetarian curry at Ocean Cellar Restaurant, Swakopmund
Hot chocolate in Ocean Cellar Restaurant, Swakopmund

Be-lavie Recommendation: Root Vegetables with coconut curry which includes butternut slices, roast sweet potato and broccoli florets with an Indian coconut curry sauce. The hotel chocolate here is thick and decadent. If you don’t fancy a dessert then definitely go for this!

Location: Waterfront, Swakopmund, Namibia. Tel. +264 64 411 4532

Google Map Location: Ocean Cellar

Website: https://www.strandhotelswakopmund.com/pages/ocean-cellar/

Price Range: ££

Reservations: Essential

Bar Zonder Naam

Bar Zonder Naam is a stunning, cosy boutique Wine lounge situated in the CBD of Swakopmund, Namibia. They have a great selection of Wines, local craft beers, local beers, Gins and liquor available. The bar  also serves delicious food platters with a selection of cheeses and other tasty delights.

Be-lavie Recommends: Any of the speciality South African wines on the menu are fantastic and also very well priced 

Location: 2 Tobias Hainyeko, Swakopmund, Namibia

Google Map Location: Zonder Naam Bar

Website: Zonder Naam Wine Bar

Price Range: ££

Reservations: Not necessary but advisable to guarantee a spot

Namibia Dunes Craft Brewery

If you love beer you must not miss a visit to the Namibia Craft Brewery where you can partake in a beer tasting experience of their fine beers and ales.

Location: Eastern Concepts complex, 5 Einstein, Swakopmund. Tel. +264 81 124 4177

Google Map Location: Namibia Dunes Craft Brewery

Instagram: Namibia Dunes Craft Brewery

Reservation: Contact via instagram to book places

Be-lavie Tips For Swakopmund

#1 As Swakopmund is the adrenalin capital of Namibia, activities can be very popular, especially in peak season. Make sure you book well in advance to avoid disappointment

#2 Make reservations ahead especially at the Ocean Cellar and The Jetty as these get booked up very fast and are popular amongst locals and visitors.

#3 If you’re headed to restaurants at night especially on the waterfront, it’s best to take your car as walking back in the dark or late can be tricky. We ran into a little trouble with the local homeless people who asked for money and our phones. Car parks are free, you just have to tip the attendant a small amount.

#4 If you do one tour in Swakopmund, let it be a visit to Sandwich Harbour and Wallis Bay. You will be blown away by the sand dunes meeting the Atlantic Ocean and the Flamingoes are a must visit.

#5 If you are heading up north to Damaraland or Etosha, then visit the Skeleton Coast en route. There’s no need to make a special visit from Swakopmund if you are short of time.

#6 If you are a history lover, visit the Swakopmund Museum to learn about the German past and history of the town.

Things to do in Swakopmund Round-Up

Swakopmund is truly one of the most German-influenced places in the whole of Namibia. You can see this from the foodie influences to the architecture. It is a must add to your itinerary to experience the coast line but also to grab some of the under chilled vibes and activities on offer in this part of Namibia. It’s also a great way for those on a road trip itinerary to have a bit of break on there way up to the north of the country.

Namibia is also a great place to experience the foodie and drinks scene due to its coastal location and it’s definitely worth delving more into this. 

This town is a must feature on any Namibia trip and give it at least two to three days even if you’re pushed for time to experience the most popular things to do in Swakopmund.

Bejal standing in front of Touchstone Tours safari truck on Garnet Beach

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Bejal

I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! My travel style places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.

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I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! I places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.

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