Oriental Bay Beach

Oriental Bay Beach showing general coastal views, a beach and a coastal town
A pristine beach perfect for swimmers and sunbathers, only a few minutes’ walk from the city centre.

Popular with locals and tourists, the Oriental Bay Beach is often referred to as Wellington's very own mini Riviera and when you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why. Take a stroll along its dazzling promenade, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or picnic and sunbathe on the pristine sands surrounded by some of the most prestigious properties you'll find anywhere in the region.

Lie back on the beach and enjoy the views of the northern hills and the Carter Memorial Fountain, which sits in the middle of the bay, as it has done since it was gifted to the city by local resident Hugh Carter. For something a little more fast-paced, hire a pair of rollerblades or skates, or maybe even a crocodile bike a covered four-wheel bicycle which can carry between five and eight passengers.

A safe spot for swimmers, Oriental Bay Beach is blessed with a shore that slopes gently into the ocean. You’ll have to swim a fair way out to sea before the water comes up to your neck!

The beach is also ideal for children. They can burn off some excess energy and enjoy the rides in the children's playground, which you'll find located to the west side of the beach. Next door, you will find Freyberg Pool, which has a 25-metre main pool as well as a heated indoor pool designed for small children.

For a bite to eat, head for one of the area’s many cafés and restaurants. For something a bit different, you can even dine out on a tug boat or enjoy fine dining at one of the many great eateries.

You can easily reach Oriental Bay Beach on foot. It’s only a short distance from the heart of the city centre. There are also buses that will take you there. If you’re driving, you can park in the bays available by the promenade or find a spot in the car park located beside Freyberg Pool. The beach has toilet facilities and the adjacent Freyberg beach has wheelchair access.

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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Top Oriental Bay Beach Hotel Deals

ibis Wellington
ibis Wellington
3.5 out of 5
153 Featherston St, Wellington
ibis Wellington
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
4.5 out of 5
147 The Terrace, Wellington
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Copthorne Hotel Wellington, Oriental Bay
Copthorne Hotel Wellington, Oriental Bay
4 out of 5
100 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay, Wellington
Copthorne Hotel Wellington, Oriental Bay
Naumi Studio Wellington
Naumi Studio Wellington
4 out of 5
223 Cuba Street, Wellington, Wellington
Naumi Studio Wellington
Rydges Wellington
Rydges Wellington
4.5 out of 5
75 Featherston St, Wellington
Rydges Wellington
Bay Plaza Hotel
Bay Plaza Hotel
3.5 out of 5
40 Oriental Parade, Wellington
Bay Plaza Hotel
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington
4.5 out of 5
Corner of Lambton Quay and Grey Street, 28 Grey Street, Wellington, NZ
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington
West Plaza Hotel
West Plaza Hotel
4 out of 5
110 Wakefield Street, Wellington
West Plaza Hotel
Oaks Wellington Hotel
Oaks Wellington Hotel
4.5 out of 5
89 Courtenay Place, Te Aro, Wellington, Wellington
Oaks Wellington Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.