Known for its warm hospitality and multidimensional appeal, Swakopmund is Namibia’s coastal city and a prime city break destination. Whether you’re exploring its stunning sea frontage or visiting nearby Skeleton Coast and Namib Desert or shopping in the Platz Am Meer mall, there is no shortage of things to do in Swakopmund. If Namibia is on your travel itinerary this year, check out our handy list of the best things to see and do in Swakopmund.
We also recommend our guide to the best cafes and coffee shops in Windhoek.
Visit the Platz Am Meer mall
The Platz Am Meer shopping mall is a shop till you drop destination in Swakopmund. Platz Am Meer mall is an attraction in its own right, and there’s no shortage of places and activities here. The mall is home to numerous retail shops, luxury penthouses and apartments, cafes and restaurants as well as banks. But shopping isn’t just the only glamour about this mall, it offers a fantastic seafront views and sunset that will make your heart skip a beat. This landmark on the coastline of Namibia is not to be missed whenever in Swakopmund, visitors are rewarded with one of the most calming shopping experiences.
Address: Albatros road, Vineta North, Swakopmund, Namibia
Immerse yourself in Swakopmund Museum
Start your cultural journey in the largest privately–run museum in Namibia. The Swakopmund Museum was founded in 1951 by dentist Dr. Alfons Weber, and has remained one of the must-see attractions in Swakopmund. Exhibits include cultural historical objects, indigenous plants, animals, minerals and an archaeological exhibition. Entrance fees are in local currency and goes for around N$ 30,00 (adults), N$ 10,00 (children) and N$ 25,00 per person for an adult group of 10. Excellent value for money for well maintained and very informative museum. There are variety of books, postcards and souvenirs on offers at the museum shop.
Address: Strand St, Swakopmund, Namibia
Swakopmund Jetty
Swakopmund Jetty Bridge area is the home to two amazing restaurants in Swakopmund, the Tug Restaurant and the Jetty 1905 Restaurant. Both sitting on exquisite location with endless ocean views. Here is the best place to find authentic dishes from must-try seafood to excellent menu of local fare to sampling food from around the world. All to be washed down with good wine selections or with a local beer. There is no shortage of treat in this part of the city. Its best to be here around sunset, the view of the setting sun is simply amazing. A romantic spot in Swakopmund to enjoy romantic dinners and take long pleasant along the Jetty Bridge and beach sand.
The Tug Restaurant Address: Molen Road, Jetty Area, Swakopmund, Namibia
Go on a desert exploration
In a city next to one of Africa’s famous desert, you can’t visit Swakopmund without indulging the Namib desert and its sand dunes. The Desert Explorers offer different adventure tours to see the natural wonders of Namibia. Visitors get to explore Namib Desert at its best with the thrill of quad bike riding through Namibia’s boundless expanse of shifting sand dunes. Such a wow experience that you will never forget. The gorgeous backdrops give so many instagrammable moments.
Address: Nathaniel Maxuilili, Swakopmund, Namibia
The National Marine Aquarium of Namibia
If the underwater world fascinates you, then make sure to visit the Swakopmund Aquarium, the only aquarium in Namibia. With walk through tunnel, guests are treated to the sights of ocean’s majestic and adorable creatures including massive cob, steenbras and galjoen as well as a shark. This aquarium situated at the Atlantic coast of Namibia, serving as a natural window to the wonders of marine life found in the cold Benguela Current off the coast of Southern Africa.
Opening hours
Tuesdays – Sundays
10h00 – 16h00
Closed on Mondays, Christmas and New Year’s days.
