Despite the steady stream of swell making it a surfer’s dream come true, the Namibian coastline is territory very few dare to enter. But surfing Namibia is a venture worth pursing. As you explore uncharted waters, it will be a surf experience like no other.

What to Expect

You need to be well prepared in order to brave this expedition, as there are many factors working against you. These consist of limited access to the coast, terrible topography, freezing water temperatures and a large gray fish. The reward however will be epic and uncrowded waves. If you don’t believe us watch this:

Climate

Staying true to its desert roots, the Namibian climate is very dry. On any given day, the average temperatures are between 20°-35°.  However, being near the coast provides you with a cool breeze. Nights in the coastal region are known to be extremely cold; with the temperature dropping to 0°. Areas further from the coast are a lot more pleasant. Fogs are a common occurrence about 340 days out of the year, and make the already difficult pursuit of surfing Namibia’ s coastline a bit more tricky. It’s all part of the adventure!

Water Temperature

This varies throughout the year, but generally the water tends to be very cold.

In January and February, it’s 19°. March sees the temperature rise to 21°. In April and May, it drops to 17°. Throughout June/July/ August/ September/October, it is a very cold 16°. And for the months of November and December, it goes up very slightly to

17°.

Surfing Namibia: Best Spots

There are areas that are safe for all surfers, such as Cape Cross and Pelican Point. Then there are areas which are recommended for experienced surfers only, an example of these being Elizabeth Bay. Finally, there are areas that only the pros should enter. The spots in the diamond mining area are on private property.

All surfers:

• Bocock’s Bay (Skeleton Coast)
• Cape Cross (Skeleton Coast)
• East Hill Point (Diamond Area)
• Henties Bay (Skeleton Coast)

Experienced surfers only:

• Affenrucken Point (Diamond Area)
• Delarey Point (Diamond Area)
• Guns (Swakopmund)
• Lockjoint (Swakopmund)
• Spencer Bay (Diamond Area)

Only the pros:

• Lüderitz Wedge (Lüderitz)
• Mowe Bay (Skeleton Coast)
• Ovahimba Point (Skeleton Coast)

Transport

The only two areas that are accessible in a 2WD are Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Therefore, it is highly recommended to hire a 4×4 for the journey. This is an easy process, and would make the experience much more enjoyable. Keep in mind that an international driving license is needed.

General Information

• The Namibian coastline stretches over 1500km, and it boasts being a section of the oldest desert known to man.
• The south of the desert is laden with red dunes, which makes coastal access only possible in the area of Lüderitz, a German colonial town.
• The north of the desert houses the Cape Cross Seal Reserve. Note: Surfing is banned in this region by the National Park officials.
• Between the months of May and September is the optimum surfing time, with waves reaching about 3m every day. Brace yourself for the high wind levels, which mostly come from the South-South East.
• Tide tables are available upon enquiry in Swakopmund.
• The Skeleton Coast has an impressive plant and wildlife, which boasts 2000 year old plants and desert elephants.
• The Sossusvlei sand dunes are among the oldest and tallest dunes in the world.
• Travel Tips: take all your surfing equipment with you as there are no places to hire, and try educating yourself about the plants and animals of the region before you start your journey.

About Mia Lukic

Mia Lukic has written 5 posts in this blog.

Originally from Croatia, I am now living in Africa. Travelling has always been my first love. My favourite place in Namibia would be Damaraland, in between the Skeleton Coast and Central Plateau. Twyfelfontein is rich in history and heritage, and the rock art is definitely an appealing facet to experience!

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