Last updated June 2026
Princess Bay is a sheltered sandy cove on Wellington’s south coast, tucked between Houghton Bay and Te Raekaihau Point along the Esplanade. The bay is one of the most accessible entry points into the Taputeranga Marine Reserve and is popular with snorkellers, swimmers and recreational divers who come to explore the rocky reef habitat just offshore. On clear days the peaks of the Kaikōura Ranges are visible across Cook Strait from the beach.
Practical Information
| Location | The Esplanade, Princess Bay, south Wellington |
|---|---|
| Access | Car park beside the beach off The Esplanade; bus to Island Bay then walk |
| Entry | Free |
| Swimming | Sheltered sandy beach; good for swimming in calm conditions |
| Snorkelling/diving | Excellent — within Taputeranga Marine Reserve |
| Facilities | Car park, toilets and changing rooms at the beach |
| Marine reserve rules | No fishing or collection of marine life |
| Managed by | Wellington City Council / DOC (marine reserve) |
About Princess Bay
Princess Bay is considered one of Wellington’s most pleasant south coast beaches because of its sheltered aspect and sandy bottom. The bay is largely protected from northerly winds, making it calm and comfortable on many days when other south coast spots are windswept. The beach has a large car park, toilets and changing rooms, making it practical for families and day visitors.
The bay lies within the Taputeranga Marine Reserve, which extends along Wellington’s south coast from Island Bay to Red Rocks. The reserve protects more than 180 fish species, along with crayfish, pāua and dense kelp forests. Snorkelling here gives a genuine underwater nature experience within a short drive of the city — visibility is often good on calm days, and the rocky reef just off the beach is rich with marine life.
Snorkelling and Diving
Princess Bay is one of the better snorkelling spots on Wellington’s south coast, with the marine reserve reef accessible from the beach. The water is cold — wetsuits are recommended year-round — but the rocky terrain and diverse species make it worthwhile. Recreational divers also use the bay as a launch point. Because it sits within the marine reserve, fish and crayfish are noticeably more abundant and less wary than in unprotected areas.
Wellington City Council — Princess Bay has current water quality and access information. DOC — Taputeranga Marine Reserve covers the marine reserve rules and species present. PADI — Princess Bay dive site gives information for divers.
FAQ
Is Princess Bay good for swimming?
Yes — Princess Bay is one of Wellington’s most sheltered south coast beaches and is popular for swimming in summer. It is sandy and relatively calm in most conditions, though southerly swells can make it rough.
Can I snorkel at Princess Bay?
Yes — Princess Bay is one of the best snorkelling spots on Wellington’s south coast. The rocky reef within the Taputeranga Marine Reserve is accessible directly from the beach. Wetsuits are recommended as the water is cold year-round.
Is there parking at Princess Bay?
Yes — there is a large car park at the beach, along with toilets and changing rooms.
Can I see the South Island from Princess Bay?
On clear days, yes — the peaks of the Kaikōura Ranges are visible across Cook Strait from the beach.
Are there rules about fishing at Princess Bay?
Princess Bay is within the Taputeranga Marine Reserve. Fishing, shellfish collection and the removal of any marine life is prohibited throughout the reserve.
For more south coast swimming and reserve options, see Wellington Parks and Reserves. Taputeranga Marine Reserve covers the full marine reserve along this coastline.
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