Henties Bay

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Geography and History

Henties Bay is the only town on the stretch of Namibian coast known as the National West Coast Recreation Area. The area is mainly associated with fishing and marine life. Since the town's inception in the 1930's, Henties Bay has expanded from a few fisherman's shacks into one of Namibia's prime holiday resorts. Henties Bay also fall within The Skeleton Coast National Park, conveniently situated only 75km north from Swakopmund.

Activities

The west coast of Namibia is renowned as one of the best surf and deep sea angling spots. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk on the beach or a stroll around the Jakkalsputz Walking Trail, an unmarked 18km walk from The Gallows to Jakkalsputz. There is also a low-tide rocky shore walk, where hikers can discover many varying forms of marine life. Just north of the town is where the ephemeral Omaruru River reaches the sea, but usually with sub-surface water.

There is also the Omaruru River Walking Trail with a choice of either the 20 or 70km walks. Maps for both Omaruru walks and the Jakkalsputz Trail are available from the Tourist Office.

Ornithologists should head for the Omdel Dam, with it's wide variety of bird species, and the Ugab River, (with the opportunity to track desert-adapted elephant) and the remainder of the Skeleton Coast Park are all within easy reach from Henties Bay.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Henties Bay include a selection of hotels and guest houses in and around the town. There is also a remote lodge at Cape Cross north of the town.