Last updated July 2026
Rona Bay Beach is a sand and pebble beach on the eastern shore of Wellington Harbour in Eastbourne, Lower Hutt. It offers sheltered harbour swimming, a large park setting with sand hills, and family-oriented facilities including a playground and paddling pool. The beach is managed by Hutt City Council and provides a quieter alternative to busier Wellington spots. Access is straightforward by bus, ferry to nearby Days Bay, or road around the harbour. Water quality is monitored through LAWA.
Practical Information
| Location | 6 Marine Parade, Eastbourne, Lower Hutt 5013 |
| Access | Bus routes 83 or 84; East By West ferry to Days Bay (approximately 25 minutes from Queens Wharf); road around the harbour |
| Entry | Free |
| Beach type | Sand and pebble; sheltered inner-harbour position with sand hills bordering a large park |
| Swimming | Calm harbour water suitable for families |
| Facilities | Changing facilities, paddling pool, toilets, playground, parking |
| Dogs | Prohibited at all times on Rona Bay Beach and adjacent bird protection area |
| Managed by | Hutt City Council |
About Rona Bay Beach
Rona Bay Beach sits on the Eastbourne foreshore and is valued for its calm, sheltered waters and proximity to a large park. The sand and pebble shoreline is backed by sand hills, creating a relaxed setting for swimming and play. Council information highlights the site as particularly suitable for families due to the combination of changing facilities, a paddling pool, toilets, playground and ample parking.
The beach forms part of the Eastbourne waterfront that supports both everyday recreation and community events. Its inner-harbour location protects it from ocean swells, keeping conditions generally calm for swimming. Nearby Days Bay provides additional sandy beach options a short distance away.
The annual Eastbourne Wharf to Wharf swim starts at Days Bay and finishes at the Rona Bay wharf, covering approximately 1.25 km. This long-running community event organised by the Muritai Yacht Club attracts participants of all ages each March.
Getting to Eastbourne and Rona Bay
Eastbourne is reached by the East By West ferry from Queens Wharf in central Wellington, with the crossing to Days Bay taking around 25 minutes. Buses 83 and 84 also serve the area directly. Road access follows the eastern harbour route from Wellington, typically taking 25 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. The ferry journey itself offers harbour views and makes the beach a convenient day-trip destination without a car.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe Rona Bay as a relaxed, family-friendly spot with calm water and useful facilities including the playground and paddling pool. Many appreciate the quieter atmosphere compared with central Wellington beaches and note the convenience of bus or ferry access for a day out.
Reviewers frequently mention the scenic harbour setting and the appeal of combining a beach visit with the ferry ride. Families highlight the park space and parking availability as practical advantages for longer stays.
Where to Learn More
Hutt City Council Beaches page: Official details on Rona Bay Beach facilities and access.
LAWA Rona Bay at Wharf: Current water quality monitoring data for the beach.
East By West Ferries: Timetables and information for the Queens Wharf to Days Bay service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rona Bay Beach suitable for families with young children?
Yes. The beach offers calm harbour water, a playground, paddling pool, changing facilities and parking, making it a practical choice for families.
Are dogs allowed at Rona Bay Beach?
No. Dogs are prohibited at all times on Rona Bay Beach and the adjacent bird protection area.
How do I get to Rona Bay Beach?
Take Metlink bus 83 or 84, the East By West ferry to nearby Days Bay (about 25 minutes from Queens Wharf), or drive around the eastern harbour.
What facilities are available at Rona Bay Beach?
Facilities include changing rooms, a paddling pool, toilets, a playground and parking.
Is there an annual swimming event at Rona Bay?
Yes. The Eastbourne Wharf to Wharf swim finishes at the Rona Bay wharf each March after starting at Days Bay.
Is the beach patrolled?
No lifeguard service is mentioned for Rona Bay; swimmers should exercise normal caution in the sheltered harbour waters.
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