Days BaySunny Days Bay is the perfect place for relaxing, with calm waters great for swimming. Other attractions include walking trails, picturesque picnic spots, art galleries, off-shore fishing and nearby cruises to Wellington City.

Public toilets nearby. Dogs on-leash. Houghton Bay BeachWith strong waves providing ideal surfing conditions for experienced surfers and breathtaking rugged coastline, this beach makes a great spot to stop. Swimming opportunities are available nearby, along with coastal walks. No public toilets. Dog friendly. Island Bay BeachIsland Bay is surrounded by interesting small bays, just waiting to be explored. With clear, calm waters it's perfect for activities like swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling and sailing.

Public toilets on site and children's playground across the road.

Dog's on-leash before 9am and after 7pm in summer and all the time in winter. Lyall Bay BeachLyall Bay is the best beach in Wellington for surfing and body boarding and regularly features strong waves. Also a great site for sunbathing, swimming and beach fun, with nearby cafe's, public toilets and children's playground.

Have fun watching planes land and take off from Wellington International airport.

The left half of the beach is dog friendly. Makara BeachMakara Beach is situated on the wild rugged west coast. Home to long walking trails with amazing views of the coastline, numerous rock pools, nearby cafe and scenic picnic spots.

Dog friendly. Oriental Bay BeachIts always been considered Wellington's own little slice of the Riviera and after its $7.5 million facelift that's an even more apt description.

And it's also one of the best spots in the capital to catch the last of the sun's rays in the evening. It's where picnickers head with their fish 'n chips and glasses of wine and where people from all over the city come to walk, swim, run, cycle or just sit and enjoy an ice cream.

Public toilets and playground on site.

No dogs. Petone BeachPetone Beach is a long stretching sandy beach, great for swimming, close to the bustling township. You can fish off the long pier or take a walk, rollerblade or cycle along the promanade.

Public toilets on site.

Dogs on-leash before 9am and after 7pm in summer, anytime in winter.