The West Coast Recreation Area is the 200-km stretch of coastline extending from Swakopmund to the Ugab River, and regionally recognized for its excellent angling potential.  This area also offers access to many sites of interest, such as the Cape Cross Seal Reserve, home to the biggest and best known breeding colony of Cape fur seals along the southern African coast; Brandberg, the highest point in Namibia, with one of the largest concentrations of rock paintings in the world, and the imposing Spitzkoppe.

A special feature in this area is the extensive occurrence of lichen fields.  Over a hundred species of lichens have been recorded in the Namib.  A symbiotic composition of algae and fungi, lichens are dependent on coastal fog for survival.  The continued existence of this intriguing form of desert life is a matter of serious concern to environmentalists, as lichens are extremely slow growing and are destroyed when vehicles drive over them.

Camping is available at Mile 14, Jakkalsputz, Mile 72 and Mile 108, which provide camping and caravan sites with communal ablution blocks.