Henties Bay | Swakopmund

Henties Bay is a coastal settlement situated within the Erongo Region of Namibia, approximately 72km north of Swakopmund. It is positioned at the mouth of the ephemeral Omaruru River on the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean.

Visual Characteristics

The landscape consists of flat, white-sand terraces and low-lying coastal dunes transitioning into a rocky shoreline. Vegetation is sparse, characterized by salt-tolerant succulents and lichen fields. The town architecture features low-rise residential structures, many constructed with reinforced concrete to withstand high salinity and heavy coastal fog.

Location & Access Logistics

The town is accessed via the C34 salt road from Swakopmund or the C35 from Uis. Internal movement is conducted on a network of unpaved salt-and-gravel streets. Private vehicles are the primary transport mode, as there are no scheduled bus or rail services directly to the town center.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The site was established as a seasonal fishing camp in 1929 by Major Hentie van der Merwe, who discovered a freshwater spring in the Omaruru River delta. Geologically, the area is part of the Central Namib gravel plains, sitting atop a fossil river mouth that provides a localized subterranean water source.

Key Highlights & Activities

Shore-based angling is the primary activity, specifically targeting Steenbras, Galjoen, and Kabeljou. Off-road driving is permitted in designated zones along the Dorob National Park corridor. Walking trails are available along the Gallows, a coastal walkway following the high-tide mark.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The town provides basic municipal services including public restrooms near the main beach area. Shade is minimal and confined to man-made structures. High-speed 4G cellular coverage is available throughout the residential core. Food vendors, grocery stores, and fuel stations are located along the main thoroughfare.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal period for angling and temperate weather is from December to March, when water temperatures are higher. Photography is best during the late afternoon when the sun is low over the Atlantic. Morning visits are frequently impacted by dense advection fog common to the Skeleton Coast.

Facts & Legends

A local landmark known as "The Gallows" consists of a wooden structure originally erected as a joke by residents to deter littering, but it now serves as a historical waypoint. The town is unique for its lack of formal street names in several older residential blocks, with houses traditionally identified by unique names rather than numbers.

Nearby Landmarks

Zeila Shipwreck – 14km South

Omaruru River Mouth – 1.2km North

Jakkalsputz Camping Area – 10km South

Messum Crater – 48km Northeast