Throughout history, this land has been known by many names. Sailors, who cursed its shores, dubbed it “The Gates of Hell”, for the sea was as treacherous as the land was unforgiving. Imagine, if you will, rough seas and tumbling waves, desert sands stretching as far as the eye can see along the shoreline, and a fog that swallows everything in its wake.

But do not be fooled into thinking that is all there is here. Beyond the horizon, brace yourself for the impact of beauty as it reveals itself up close.

Our home during our visit to the Skeleton Coast was Terrace Bay, a surprising gem along this wild coastline. While many people assume this place is purely an angler’s paradise, thanks to the abundant fish life that thrives here in one of the most productive oceanic areas in the world, we did not see a single fisherman during our stay. Instead, most visitors, like us, were drawn by the allure of this untamed land, eager to explore a corner of the world where the rhythms of nature remain unbroken. Though we came from all corners of the globe, we shared a common fascination with the Skeleton Coast – a place that stirs something deep inside all who venture here.

Terrace Bay is a fascinating little outpost, full of mystery and steeped in the remnants of its past. Once a diamond mining settlement with a checkered history, its story has evolved over time, and what really happened here is now more myth and folklore – much like many of the tales of this land. Perhaps the full story of its past is best left to the imagination. The old mine buildings, now weathered and worn, serve as a sanctuary for birds that shelter in the rusty remains of human endeavour.

This is the northernmost point for self-drive adventurers visiting the park, and here you will find beaches made up of beautiful, well-developed pebbles (also known as cobble beaches), some of which date back around 5,500 years. The Paraná-Etendeka Volcanic Province contributed significantly to the pebbles and gravel found on beaches north of the Uniab River mouth, including those at Terrace Bay. An interesting feature of these pebbles, so perfectly rounded, is that they are a clear indicator of strong wave action.

Operated by Namibia Wildlife Resorts, Terrace Bay offers simple yet cozy accommodation that captures the essence of this rugged place. You can choose from twenty en-suite double rooms or opt for the self-catering beach chalets, perfect for larger groups looking for a more private retreat.

Here, you will also find a fuel station and a small shop stocked with necessities and mementos to remember your stay. The restaurant at Terrace Bay serves up delicious meals, and the quaint, well-visited bar is a true talking point, with every inch of its walls covered in signatures and stories from visitors who have passed through over the years.

The charm of Terrace Bay lies in its understated beauty. Modest yet endearing, it is a place where the land’s stark beauty is matched by the warm hospitality that invites you to rest before continuing your journey through this extraordinary corner of the world.