Pelican Point | Walvis Bay

Pelican Point is a remote sand spit that forms the western protective barrier of the Walvis Bay lagoon. It is situated approximately 10km west of the Walvis Bay town center across the lagoon waters, or 35km by road.

Visual Characteristics

The landscape is a flat, low-lying peninsula composed of shifting white marine sand and salt-encrusted gravel. It features a historic cast-iron lighthouse painted in black and white horizontal stripes. The shoreline is characterized by a high-density colony of Cape fur seals and scattered whale bones and ship wreckage partially buried in the dunes.

Location & Access Logistics

Access from Walvis Bay requires a 4x4 vehicle to navigate the deep, unpaved sand tracks passing the Walvis Bay Salt Works. The drive takes approximately 45–60 minutes from the town center. Alternatively, the point is reached via commercial catamaran or kayak tours departing from the Walvis Bay Waterfront. No public transport or paved roads serve this location.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The point was formed by longshore drift and the accumulation of sediment from the Kuiseb River. The current lighthouse was relocated here in 1932 to navigate vessels into the harbor. Ecologically, the area serves as a primary haul-out site for thousands of Cape fur seals and a breeding ground for various marine bird species.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of the Cape fur seal colony is the primary activity. Guided kayak tours allow for close-range interaction with the seals in the shallow waters. Photography of the Pelican Point Lighthouse and the contrast between the Atlantic surf and the calm lagoon waters is common. Jackal and hyena sightings occur frequently during scavenger rounds.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Infrastructure is extremely limited. A luxury lodge is situated in the former lighthouse control buildings, providing private facilities for guests. There are no public restrooms, shade structures, or food vendors for general visitors. Cellular signal (4G) is functional due to the line-of-sight proximity to the Walvis Bay telecommunications towers.

Best Time to Visit

Morning hours (08:00 to 12:00) are optimal for kayak tours and wildlife activity before the afternoon southwesterly winds increase. Photography is best in the late afternoon for the lighthouse silhouette or early morning for soft lighting on the seal colony. Low tide exposes wider sandbanks for easier 4x4 navigation.

Facts & Legends

The sand spit is constantly growing and changing shape due to the powerful Benguela Current; historical charts show the tip of the point has moved several hundred meters north over the last century. Local stories mention the "ghosts" of shipwrecks that appear and disappear as the heavy coastal fog rolls across the flat peninsula.

Nearby Landmarks

Pelican Point Lighthouse – 0.1km North

Walvis Bay Salt Works – 15km Southeast

Walvis Bay Lagoon – 10km East (across water)

Paaltjies Beach – 18km Southeast