Swakopmund Jetty, pier in Namibia
Swakopmund Jetty is a 262 meter steel structure extending into the ocean that grew from an earlier wooden construction. A modern wooden walkway now connects to the older steel sections, making it easy to stroll over the water while observing the coastline.
The first wooden pier opened in 1905 to address the harbor's problems with sand buildup that limited ship access. A steel replacement was started around 1912 but World War I halted construction, leaving only 262 meters completed.
The pier reflects Swakopmund's past as a German colonial harbor and serves today as a gathering place for locals and visitors. People come to walk, fish, or simply watch the sea and enjoy the sunset from this public meeting spot.
The pier is freely accessible and offers a pleasant spot for walking with open ocean views. A restaurant operates at its end, and since the structure sits exposed over water, be prepared for wind and take care during rough sea conditions.
The original wooden pier was eventually buried by sand buildup that shifted the shoreline, temporarily covering its end beneath the beach. This is a rare example of how the ocean literally reshaped a planned structure over time.
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