Swimming In Wellington

Seven of Wellington’s Best Swimming Spots

1. Oriental Bay

Location: Central Wellington, along Oriental Parade

Overview: Often referred to as Wellington’s “inner-city beach,” Oriental Bay is located close to the city centre, making it one of the most popular swimming spots in Wellington. With its imported golden sands and calm, clear waters, Oriental Bay is ideal for families, solo swimmers, and anyone looking to unwind by the water with views of Wellington Harbour and the city skyline.

Features:

• Safe and Accessible Swimming: The bay has a gentle slope and protected waters, making it a safe and accessible swimming location for people of all ages. Families with children especially appreciate the calm conditions here.
• Beach Facilities: Oriental Bay is well-equipped with public amenities, including restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. There are also shaded picnic tables and grassy areas for relaxing.
• Nearby Eateries and Cafés: Oriental Parade is lined with popular cafes, ice cream parlours, and eateries, allowing swimmers to enjoy a refreshing treat or meal after a swim.

Tips:

• Arrive Early for the Best Spot: During summer weekends, Oriental Bay can become crowded, so it’s a good idea to arrive early for the best spot on the beach.
• Activities Beyond Swimming: In addition to swimming, visitors can walk or cycle along the waterfront promenade, visit the nearby Freyberg Pool, or simply take in the panoramic views of the harbour.

2. Scorching Bay

Location: Miramar Peninsula, a 15-minute drive from central Wellington

Overview: Tucked away on the Miramar Peninsula, Scorching Bay is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with turquoise waters and soft sands. Known for its stunning views and clear waters, this spot is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family outings.

Features:

• Calm, Clear Waters: The bay is relatively sheltered, creating gentle waves and making it safe for swimmers of all levels. It’s also a favourite spot for snorkelling due to the clarity of the water.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Scorching Bay offers grassy areas, picnic tables, and shady spots under nearby trees, making it perfect for a day out with family or friends.
• Local Café and Facilities: A popular café is located right across from the beach, providing drinks, snacks, and meals, and there are public restrooms and changing facilities available nearby.

Tips:

• Limited Parking: Parking can be challenging to find during peak times, so consider arriving early or taking public transportation to avoid the hassle.
• Bring Sunscreen and Shade: While there are some shady areas, most of the beach is exposed to the sun, so be sure to bring sun protection.

3. Lyall Bay

Location: Southern Wellington, near Wellington Airport

Overview: Known as Wellington’s surfing hub, Lyall Bay is a long stretch of sandy beach with a vibrant surf culture. While it’s particularly popular among surfers, Lyall Bay also offers designated swimming areas that are safe and enjoyable for swimmers.

Features:

• Surfing and Swimming: With consistent waves, Lyall Bay is a popular destination for surfers, but designated swimming zones with lifeguards are also available during peak times, making it safe for both surfing and swimming.
• Local Cafés and Food Trucks: The beach is surrounded by a variety of cafés and food trucks that offer a range of refreshments, from coffee and pastries to fish and chips.
• Dog-Friendly Areas: Certain parts of Lyall Bay allow dogs, so it’s a great place for pet owners to bring their furry friends for a beach day.

Tips:

• Swim Between the Flags: Strong currents can occur, so always swim within the flagged areas patrolled by lifeguards.
• Parking Availability: The beach offers ample parking along the waterfront, but it fills up quickly during weekends and holidays.

4. Days Bay

Location: Eastbourne, across Wellington Harbour

Overview: Accessible by ferry or a scenic drive from the city, Days Bay is one of the best places to enjoy a day by the water. With clear, calm waters and surrounding hills, it provides a peaceful setting for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing.

Features:

• Gentle, Swimmable Waters: Days Bay offers some of the calmest swimming conditions, making it suitable for families and those looking for a low-key swim.
• Nearby Attractions and Amenities: The bay has changing rooms, public toilets, and various cafes and shops. Adjacent Williams Park provides walking trails, picnic spots, and a playground for children.
• Paddleboarding and Kayaking: The calm water is also ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking, with equipment available for rent nearby.

Tips:

• Take the Ferry for a Scenic Journey: The ferry from Wellington’s CBD to Days Bay provides a unique perspective of the harbour and is a convenient way to reach the bay without worrying about parking.
• Explore Williams Park: Pack a picnic and enjoy the park, or visit the local shops for souvenirs and snacks.

5. Kāpiti Coast Beaches (Paraparaumu and Raumati Beach)

Location: Kāpiti Coast, northwest of Wellington

Overview: A series of beautiful beaches along the Kāpiti Coast, Paraparaumu and Raumati Beach offer wide, sandy shores and stunning views of Kāpiti Island. With tranquil waters and a laid-back atmosphere, these beaches are perfect for a day of swimming, beachcombing, and relaxation.

Features:

• Spacious Sandy Beaches: The long stretches of sand provide plenty of space to find a quiet spot to swim, relax, or walk along the shore.
• Accessible Facilities: Most beaches have public restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds nearby. Paraparaumu Beach even offers opportunities for beachcombing and kite flying.
• Scenic Views of Kāpiti Island: The sight of Kāpiti Island adds to the area’s charm, creating an ideal backdrop for sunset photography or a scenic picnic.

Tips:

• Accessible by Train or Car: Paraparaumu Beach is easily accessible by train or car, making it an ideal day trip destination from Wellington.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for native bird species and occasional seal sightings along the coast.

6. Hutt River Swimming Holes (Birchville Dam and Kaitoke Regional Park)

Location: Upper Hutt region

Overview: For those looking for freshwater swimming, the Hutt River offers serene swimming holes surrounded by lush forest. Two popular spots are Birchville Dam and Kaitoke Regional Park, which provide scenic, refreshing swims in natural river settings.

Features:

• Birchville Dam: A peaceful spot with deep, clear water perfect for swimming. The dam is surrounded by native bush, creating a tranquil environment.
• Kaitoke Regional Park: This park has several swimming holes with varying depths, making it ideal for all ages. Kaitoke also offers tubing on the river and picnic spots nearby.
• Natural Forest Setting: Both locations are surrounded by lush forests, offering a retreat from the city and an immersive natural experience.

Tips:

• Watch for Currents: Be mindful of river currents, and avoid swimming after heavy rain, as conditions can become unpredictable.
• Limited Facilities: Birchville Dam has minimal facilities, so pack essentials. Kaitoke Park offers more amenities, but be prepared for a rustic experience.

7. Makara Beach

Location: West of Wellington, approximately 30 minutes from the city centre

Overview: Makara Beach is a rugged, pebbly beach known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic coastal views. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to swim in a less conventional setting, surrounded by nature and rugged scenery.

Features:

• Clear, Rocky Waters: The water clarity at Makara Beach is excellent, but the rocky seabed makes water shoes a good idea for comfortable swimming.
• Snorkelling Opportunities: Makara Beach’s underwater environment, with rocks and kelp beds, provides an interesting habitat for snorkelling enthusiasts.
• Nearby Walking Trails: Coastal walking trails offer spectacular views of the beach and surrounding landscapes, including historic gun emplacements.

Tips:

• Bring Water Shoes: The rocky seabed can be rough on bare feet, so bring water shoes if you plan to swim.
• Perfect for a Coastal Adventure: After a swim, explore the walking trails and enjoy a picnic with a view.

Conclusion

Wellington’s array of free swimming spots is one of the many reasons it’s such an incredible place to live and visit. From the sandy city beach of Oriental Bay to the scenic shores of Days Bay and the rugged charm of Makara Beach, each spot offers something unique. Whether you’re looking for calm waters, family-friendly beaches, or a secluded spot in nature, Wellington has a swimming destination for everyone.

Pack your sunscreen, a picnic, and your swim gear, and dive into Wellington’s best swimming locations. With such diverse options around the city, your next swimming adventure is just around the corner. So grab your towel, and get ready to experience the refreshing beauty of Wellington’s waters!