Lyall Bay
A surf bay beside the airport runway, where planes fly low overhead on their approach. A row of cafés lines the seafront, making it Wellingtonians' favourite city beach.
Lyall Bay is Wellington's most popular surf spot, with surf schools and equipment rental. The eastern side of the bay sits right beside the end of the airport runway, and from the breakwater you can watch planes take off and land up close. The wide beach is busy in good weather, with people swimming and walking their dogs.
Heading west along the coast road lets you cycle or drive around the south coast. Admission is free, and bus route 3 from the city centre takes about 20 minutes.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Wellington Zoo
- Island Bay & Taputeranga Marine Reserve
- Mount Victoria Lookout
- Pukeahu National War Memorial Park
- Embassy Theatre
- Wētā Workshop
- Harbourside Market
- Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa