Island Bay Beach is a broad sandy beach on Wellington’s south coast, 5 kilometres south of the CBD in the suburb of Island Bay. It sits on the edge of the Taputeranga Island Marine Reserve and faces Cook Strait, with dramatic views toward the South Island on clear days. A large playground, cafes, and easy parking make it a popular family destination. Entry is free.
Practical Information
| Location | Reef Street area, Island Bay, Wellington (5 km south of the CBD) |
|---|---|
| Admission | Free |
| Facilities | Large playground opposite the beach, ample parking, toilets, cafes and restaurants nearby, marine education resources |
| Marine Reserve | Taputeranga Island Marine Reserve — no-take zone; snorkelling and diving permitted |
About the Beach
Island Bay Beach sits at the base of the hills that form Wellington’s south coast, looking out across Cook Strait toward the Kaikoura Ranges. The beach is wide and sandy with rocky pools at the edges, and the small island — Taputeranga — sits offshore. The entire area around the island is protected as a marine reserve, making it good for snorkelling and diving to see marine life in a no-take environment.
The water at Island Bay is cold year-round — this is the open south coast, not a sheltered harbour bay. Strong southerly winds are common. Swimming is popular in summer but the conditions are more exposed and the water colder than at Scorching Bay or Oriental Bay. The beach is also the terminus of the Southern Walkway and the City to Sea trail, which make Island Bay a natural destination for walkers arriving from the Town Belt.
“The water is always cold, no matter what time of year, and there are often jellyfish in the sea — but the setting is stunning.” — visitor review
The Marine Reserve
Taputeranga Island Marine Reserve was established in 2008 and covers the waters around the island and the adjacent coastline. Fishing and the collection of marine life are prohibited within the reserve. Snorkellers and divers can explore rocky reef and kelp forest habitat. The Island Bay Marine Education Centre provides information on the reserve and local marine life.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Taputeranga Island Marine Reserve — reserve rules, snorkelling and diving information.
FAQ
Where is Island Bay Beach?
In the suburb of Island Bay, 5 km south of Wellington CBD — reached via the Island Bay bus route or by car via Adelaide Road.
Is the water warm?
No — Island Bay faces Cook Strait and the water is cold year-round. It is cooler than Wellington’s harbour beaches. Jellyfish are also sometimes present.
What is the marine reserve?
Taputeranga Island Marine Reserve surrounds the island and adjacent coastline — a no-take zone established in 2008. Good for snorkelling and diving to see undisturbed marine life.
Can I fish at Island Bay?
Not within the marine reserve boundaries. Check the DOC website for the exact reserve boundaries before fishing in the area.
Is the playground good for children?
Yes — there is a large playground opposite the beach, and the rocky pools at low tide are excellent for children to explore.
Is this where the Southern Walkway ends?
Yes — the Southern Walkway and the City to Sea trail both terminate at Island Bay, making it a rewarding destination for walkers arriving from the Town Belt.
Also on Wellington’s south coast: Lyall Bay Beach is a short drive east and is Wellington’s main surf beach. For all Wellington swimming spots, see Swimming in Wellington.