Houghton Bay Reserve is a rocky coastal reserve on Wellington’s south coast, situated between Island Bay and Lyall Bay along the Esplanade. The bay opens onto the Cook Strait and is exposed to the southerly swells that make it a favourite spot for surfers and experienced ocean swimmers. The reserve sits within the broader Taputeranga Marine Reserve zone, which extends along this section of Wellington’s coastline and protects the underwater environment from fishing and harvesting.
Practical Information
| Location | Houghton Bay, south Wellington — off The Esplanade |
|---|---|
| Access | By road — The Esplanade runs along the coast; bus from central Wellington to Island Bay |
| Entry | Free |
| Swimming | Rocky bay; suitable for experienced swimmers, surfers and divers |
| Marine reserve | Within Taputeranga Marine Reserve — no fishing or collection |
| Facilities | Limited; toilets nearby at Island Bay |
| Managed by | Wellington City Council |
About Houghton Bay
Houghton Bay is one of the smaller bays on Wellington’s southern coastline, and its rocky shore gives it a more rugged character than the sandy beaches to the east. The bay attracts surfers when southerly swells generate good waves, and divers who access the water to explore the rocky reef environment protected by the Taputeranga Marine Reserve. The reserve extends along this stretch of coast to Island Bay, and the underwater terrain around Houghton Bay includes kelp forests, rocky ledges and diverse marine life.
The paved Esplanade track runs along the coastline between Owhiro Bay and Island Bay, passing through Houghton Bay, making it easy to walk or cycle along the south coast on a flat, sealed path.
Southern Walkway Connection
Houghton Bay is a waypoint on the Southern Walkway, an 11-kilometre walking track that runs from Oriental Bay through the Wellington Town Belt and down to Island Bay. The walkway route passes through Houghton Bay on its descent to the coast, offering walkers a combination of bush and coastal scenery. The full route is a moderate half-day walk with excellent views over the Cook Strait.
Wellington City Council — Houghton Bay Beach covers access and water information. DOC — Taputeranga Marine Reserve explains the marine reserve rules and what species can be found.
FAQ
Is Houghton Bay good for swimming?
Houghton Bay is rocky and exposed to Cook Strait swells, making it better suited for experienced ocean swimmers, surfers and divers than for casual family swimming. Princess Bay nearby is more sheltered.
Can I surf at Houghton Bay?
Yes — Houghton Bay picks up southerly swells and is used by surfers, though it is not a patrolled beach. Lyall Bay nearby is the main patrolled surf beach in the area.
Is fishing allowed at Houghton Bay?
No. Houghton Bay is within the Taputeranga Marine Reserve, where fishing, shellfish collection and any removal of marine life is prohibited.
How do I get to Houghton Bay?
Drive along The Esplanade from Island Bay or Lyall Bay. Regular buses run from central Wellington to Island Bay, with a short walk to Houghton Bay from the Island Bay bus stop.
What is the Esplanade track?
The Esplanade is a sealed coastal path running from Owhiro Bay through Houghton Bay to Island Bay, suitable for walking, running and cycling. It offers flat, easy access along Wellington’s south coast.
See all south coast and natural reserves at Wellington Parks and Reserves. The Taputeranga Marine Reserve page covers the full extent of the marine protection zone along this coastline.