Pearls Beach Pods: Our full report

Right on the beach in the heart of Swakopmund, the location of The Pearls is impressive.

Dominated by views of the ocean, these two upmarket and contemporary holiday homes are also close to the cafés, restaurants and bars of this bustling seaside town, offering a good combination of privacy and convenience.

Although a member of Expert Africa has yet to visit The Pearls, our Namibia team has in-depth knowledge of Swakopmund and are familiar with the location. We have also worked closely with the owners for many years, and are confident that their high standards will match ours.

The two adjacent holiday homes that make up The Pearls Beach Pods stand side by side looking straight out to sea. Contemporary in style, they are each set on three floors – one (the Jetty Unit) with three en-suite bedrooms, the second (the Mole Unit) with two.

On the ground floor, a large, open-plan kitchen, dining and living area has expansive ocean views through large sliding doors that open directly onto the sands. Not only is the kitchen fully equipped, it also comes fully stocked with food, snacks and drinks to match your requirements. With that and a choice of inside and outside barbecues, it hardly seems a chore to prepare the occasional meal at home.

Up the open-plan staircase brings you to the bedrooms (with more of those expansive views), a further lounge area and a private balcony, along with a guest cloakroom. Heated towel rails, bathrobes and slippers ensure that Swakopmund’s notorious chills won’t blight your stay.

Take another few steps up and you come to the “entertainment” area, along with a hot tub (which can be cool if you prefer) with ocean views. A barbecue, second kitchen and bar make this a good place for entertaining or just enjoying a leisurely evening, while a sheltered private terrace at the back incorporates sunloungers, chairs and patio umbrellas for daytime relaxation.

From a practical point of view, there’s WiFi throughout the property, a smart TV and Bluetooth speakers. A washing machine and tumble dryer will be a boon to those in the middle of a trip, while self-drivers will appreciate the remote-controlled double garage. In addition, the services of a personal concierge can be employed to organise activities in and around Swakopmund.

Our view

The option of a self-contained holiday home on the beach at Swakopmund is increasingly popular among self-drivers. Although we have yet to visit The Pearl Beach Pods, their beach location with easy access to the town and its range of amenities is likely to appeal to those seeking a combination of luxury, privacy and sea views.

Tom Morris

Country manager: Namibia

Geographics

Location: Swakopmund & Walvis Bay, Namibia
Ideal length of stay: At least 2 nights
Accessible by: Self-drive

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Room Only
Dining locations: Indoor Dining

Children

Attitude towards children: Children of all ages are welcome.
Property’s age restrictions: None
Special activities & services: None
Notes: With direct access to the beach from the property, children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.

Communications

Communications: WiFi is available throughout.
TV & radio: There’s a smart TV in each property.
Water supply: Mains

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended: No
Medical care: There is a private Cottage Hospital in Swakopmund for minor issues. For major incidents travellers are likely to be evacuated to Johannesburg or Cape Town.

Quadbike warning: quad-biking is sometimes available as an activity from Cornerstone Guest House. As with any potentially dangerous activity, it’s vital that you take responsibility for ensuring that you have adequate travel insurance prior to getting involved. Be aware that some insurances cover quad-bike activities only for bikes with lower engine ratings: check such clauses particularly carefully before you get on a bike.
Dangerous animals: Low Risk
Fire safety