THE BAY OF HENDRIK

At the moment Henties Bay is my favorite holiday destination surpassing my love for Katima Mulilo, Swakopmund and Etosha National Park.

Here's why  THE BAY OF HENDRIK  "HENTIES" VAN DER MERWE is top of my holiday destinations in Namibia:

1. The beach area (especially its view from above the river banks) is so beautiful and creates a soothing feeling in your mind.

2. The beach is well maintained and there are few rocks in the water. Swimmers would love the beach of Henties Bay.

3. The beach has lots of braai stands for grilled meals lovers.

4. The town is small that you can actually walk from the shopping center to the beach in no time, in fact I prefer to walk so I can sight see.

5. Because the population is so small (4 700 people as of 2020),it is very safe, everyone seems to know everyone there.

Henties Bay's Timeline

In 1488 Bartolomeu Dias sailed along the Atlantic coast. Near the area of today's Henties Bay he discovered such an abundance of fish that he named this coastline Praia das Sardinhas, English for "Coast of Fish"

In 886 the fresh water source was first discovered by Schutztruppe soldiers. 

In 1920, a minerals prospector stayed overnight. After tasting the water he was said to be healed from an affliction.

In 1929 the namesake of the town,  major Hendrik "Henty" Stefanus van der Merwe who discovered the place while looking for water. 

In 1951 the South–West Africa Administration mandated to South Africa, proclaimed erven in the Omaruru riverbed that were available for rent, but the erection of permanent structures was not allowed. The first shop was established during that time. A lighthouse was erected to guide ships along the dangerous Namibian coast. 

In the 1960s mining holes were dug after diamonds had been found in the area on a few occasions. A few years later mining was abandoned due to lack of success. 

In 1966 it was decided that the riverbed must not be settled in, and property north and south of it was sold. A hotel was built one year later, and the town began to develop.

Tourism

Henties Bay is a must for Anglers and 4x4 enthusiasts. If you are looking for a peaceful holiday destination to de-stress and to enjoy quiet seaside, Henties Bay is for you. There are plenty seaside hotels and bnbs to closer to the beach.

Industry

1. Areva, a French company who has built the first desalination plant.

2. The University of Namibia (UNAM), Dr. Sam Nujoma which houses the School of Marine Engineering and Maritime Studies. In late October 2020 the University of Namibia (Unam) inaugurated a desalination drinking water bottling plant.

3. Spar is the main supermarket for all your daily needs.

Please do make Henties Bay your next destination, I am sure you will enjoy your stay. Thanks for travelling with us virtually.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henties_Bay