Features
What makes this beach unique
Pelican Point is one of the wildest and most pristine places on Earth, where the Namib Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean. A colony of 50,000 Cape fur seals lives here — one of the largest in Namibia. The beach is covered with starfish and rusty remains of shipwrecks, and pelicans and flamingos can be seen in the water.
Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
5 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Pelican Point Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity moderate, average temperature +14.0°C, warms up to +18.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Pelican Point Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Pelican Point Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Pelican Point Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 5 000 metres.
Pelican Point Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December, January, February. It ends in February. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Pelican Point Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Pelican Point Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sharks, strong currents. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Pelican Point Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Pelican Point Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Coastal Restaurant. Cuisines available: Namibian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Pelican Point Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Windbreaker, Warm clothing, Cash, Camera, Binoculars.
Pelican Point Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Best time is from December to February. Less wind and better visibility in the morning. Kayaking tours depart early morning from Walvis Bay.
Pelican Point Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Littering and disturbing seals is prohibited. Swimming is not recommended. Travel only by 4x4.
Pelican Point Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Pelican Point Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for wildlife lovers, kayaking and photography. Suitable for watching seals, pelicans and flamingos. Not suitable for swimming and families with small children.
Pelican Point Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Pelican Point is one of the wildest and most pristine places on Earth, where the Namib Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean. A colony of 50,000 Cape fur seals lives here — one of the largest in Namibia. The beach is covered with starfish and rusty remains of shipwrecks, and pelicans and flamingos can be seen in the water.
Pelican Point Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Colony of 50,000 fur seals, Pelican and flamingo watching, Kayaking with seals, Wild and untouched nature, Scenic desert and ocean landscapes, Pelican Point Lighthouse. Cons: Access only by 4x4, No infrastructure, No lifeguards, Swimming not recommended, Strong currents.
Pelican Point Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Pelican Colony, Fur Seal Colony, Pelican Point Lighthouse. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Pelican Point Beach: how do I get to the city of Walvis Bay?
The beach is located near the city of Walvis Bay. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Walvis Bay.