Walk, swim, sunbathe and picnic at Wellington’s popular Oriental Bay Beach. Locals consider this area to be Wellington’s own little Riviera. Its sandy expanse and long promenade are surrounded by some of the most prestigious and expensive real estate in the city.Oriental Bay Beach is considered safe for swimmers. The shore slopes gently into the ocean and swimmers have to go some way offshore before the water is neck-deep.Sit back and take in the views that include the northern hills in the distance and the Carter Memorial Fountain. This water feature sits in the middle of the bay and was a gift to the city from local resident Hugh Carter. Wander by the waterfront or along Oriental Parade, the paved promenade that borders the beach. Quicken your pace with rollerblades or skates, which you can rent from nearby stores. If there are several people in your party consider renting a crocodile bike, a covered four-wheeled bicycle. The smaller size of the bike can carry up to five people and the large size can carry up to eight. Let the kids jump, climb and slide at the children’s playground at the western end of the beach. It’s next door to Freyberg Pool, which has an 82-feet (25-meter) main pool and a heated indoor toddlers’ pool.Enjoy a meal or light refreshments at one of the cafés or restaurants. The range of dining options includes a restaurant on a tug boat and fine-dining eateries. Being so close to the city center, Oriental Bay Beach is easy to get to on foot or by bus. If you are planning to drive, there are parking bays by the promenade and a car park beside Freyberg Pool. The beach facilities include toilets, and there is wheelchair access to the adjacent Freyberg beach.
Oriental Bay Beach Tours
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Popular places to visit
Oriental Parade
During your visit to Wellington, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Oriental Parade. Stroll along the waterfront in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
Mount Victoria Lookout
Stroll along a scenic walkway through a pretty Wellington Town Belt reserve to this lookout for spectacular panoramic views of the city.
Waitangi Park
Explore the great outdoors at Waitangi Park, a lovely green space in Wellington. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Te Papa
See, smell and touch the exhibits at New Zealand’s hi-tech and interactive free national museum.
Courtenay Place
Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.
Saint Gerard's Catholic Church and Monastery
You can find out about the history of Wellington with a stop at Saint Gerard's Catholic Church and Monastery. Experience the acclaimed theater scene and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
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