Island Bay - a close up of a sound mixing console
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Island Bay

4.6
·491k reviews·Wellington, New Zealand

Island Bay: A charming Wellington village with a beautiful beach, unique Boom Netting, and a vibrant arts scene.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Perfect for beach and outdoor fun

CrowdMedium
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Island Bay - a close up of a sound mixing console

Island Bay

Best Time

Summer mornings

Perfect for beach and outdoor fun

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Island Bay: A charming Wellington village with a beautiful beach, unique Boom Netting, and a vibrant arts scene.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Discover the relaxed charm of Island Bay, a coastal gem with a beautiful beach and unique village life."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Boom Netting Hours

Confirm daily hours for the Boom Netting online or on-site before your visit.

Explore the Village

Wander through Island Bay's charming streets, discover local art galleries and unique shops.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Island Bay Beach

Island Bay Beach

Island Bay

A beautiful, expansive beach perfect for relaxing, playing, and enjoying the coastal scenery.

Boom Netting

Boom Netting

Island Bay

A unique and fun water activity offering a refreshing way to cool off and experience the bay.

Village Cafes & Shops

Village Cafes & Shops

Island Bay Village

Explore charming local cafes and unique shops offering a taste of the village's artistic and culinary scene.

Island Bay Playground

Island Bay Playground

Island Bay

A large, well-equipped playground providing fun for children of all ages.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace Island Bay's Charm

Discover Island Bay, a vibrant village known for its stunning beach and lively atmosphere. Plan your visit to enjoy its cafes, shops, and the unique Boom Netting experience. Check local listings for daily hours, especially for attractions like the Boom Netting.

Wellington's Coastal Gem

Island Bay is a picturesque coastal suburb of Wellington, New Zealand. It offers a relaxed village feel with a beautiful beach, a large playground, and a variety of local eateries and shops. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely day trip or a longer stay.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Perfect for beach and outdoor fun
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively village atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

It’s called Boom Netting 🐳 #bayofislands #creamtrip #nztravel #boomnetting #nzfun #nzsummer #nzmustdo #aotearoa #newzealand #travel #traveltips
@escape.video
409.1K likes • 5M views

Check Boom Netting Hours

Confirm daily hours for the Boom Netting online or on-site before your visit. Instagram

Explore the Village

Wander through Island Bay's charming streets, discover local art galleries and unique shops. Instagram

Watch full video for daily hours 🌞 or pop over to the website. Island Bay is a wonderful village to visit, lots cafes, shops and stunning beach and huge playground! - #julietbestart #lovenz #wellingtonnz #nzartist #newzealandart #newzealand #originalart #artgallery #interiordesign #art #newzealandartist #nzart #nz #aotearoa #nzartgallery #gold #goldleaf #contemporaryart
julietbestart
15 likes • 781 views
reddit.com

Island Bay for WHV?

Family Fun at the Playground

Bring the kids to enjoy the large, well-equipped playground near the beach. Instagram

Enjoy Local Cafes

Savor delicious food and coffee at the many cafes dotted around the village. Instagram

reddit.com

Some info about my (future) rented room surroundings?

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Boom Netting Hours

Confirm daily hours for the Boom Netting online or on-site before your visit. Instagram

Explore the Village

Wander through Island Bay's charming streets, discover local art galleries and unique shops. Instagram

Family Fun at the Playground

Bring the kids to enjoy the large, well-equipped playground near the beach. Instagram

Enjoy Local Cafes

Savor delicious food and coffee at the many cafes dotted around the village. Instagram

Embrace the Beach Life

Relax on Island Bay Beach, swim, or simply enjoy the scenic coastal views. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Island Bay is cherished for its beautiful beach, vibrant village atmosphere, and unique attractions like the Boom Netting. Visitors appreciate the relaxed vibe, charming cafes, and family-friendly amenities. Some find parking can be challenging during peak times.

What People Like

Beautiful beach
Charming village
Unique Boom Netting

What People Dislike

Parking can be busy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Island Bay is easily accessible from Wellington city center. You can take a bus, with routes like the 14 often serving the area. Driving is also an option, offering scenic coastal views. Reddit

Yes, there is street parking available in Island Bay, especially around the village and beach areas. It can get busy on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Cycling to Island Bay is a popular option for locals and visitors, offering beautiful coastal paths. Ensure you are comfortable with the terrain and traffic. Reddit

Walking is ideal for exploring the village and beach. For wider exploration of Wellington's coast, consider cycling or using local buses. Reddit

Absolutely! Several Wellington bus routes connect to Island Bay, making it a convenient destination without a car. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Island Bay Beach is a public space and free to access. Enjoy the sand and sea without any entry fees. Instagram

The Boom Netting is a popular attraction, and there may be associated costs or booking requirements. It's best to check their official website or local listings for current pricing and availability. TikTokInstagram

Shops and cafes in Island Bay are open to the public, and there are no entry fees to browse. You'll only pay for any purchases you make. Instagram

Island Bay itself is always accessible. However, individual businesses like cafes, shops, and attractions like the Boom Netting will have their own operating hours, which can vary. Instagram

For specific activities like the Boom Netting, it's advisable to check if advance booking is recommended or required, especially during peak season. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of Island Bay Beach, the colorful village shops, and the scenic coastline. The playground also offers fun family photo opportunities. Instagram

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for beach and landscape photography. Midday can be great for capturing the vibrant village life. Instagram

The Boom Netting provides a unique, refreshing subject for photos. The village's eclectic mix of shops and art galleries also offers distinctive visual appeal. TikTokInstagram

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both landscapes and village details. A wide-angle lens is great for the beach and panoramic views. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's essential to check with local authorities or aviation bodies regarding any restrictions before flying a drone in the area. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Island Bay offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes serving coffee and light bites to restaurants with diverse menus. You can find local New Zealand cuisine and international flavors. Instagram

Yes, Island Bay is known for its charming cafes that are perfect for breakfast or brunch. Many offer delicious pastries, full cooked breakfasts, and excellent coffee. Instagram

There are several cafes and eateries located close to Island Bay Beach, offering convenient spots to grab a meal or a snack with a view. Instagram

While not exclusively a seafood destination, you can often find fresh seafood options at restaurants in and around Island Bay, reflecting New Zealand's coastal bounty. Instagram

Most cafes and restaurants in Island Bay are accommodating and offer vegetarian and vegan choices on their menus. It's always a good idea to ask your server. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Island Bay is a fantastic destination for families. The large, well-equipped playground near the beach is a major draw, offering hours of entertainment for children. The beach itself is also great for sandcastle building and paddling in the shallows. Instagram

Consider trying the Boom Netting for a unique family adventure, ensuring you check age and height restrictions. The village also has numerous cafes that are generally welcoming to families, offering kid-friendly menu options. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers

For a perfect day trip from Wellington, Island Bay offers a refreshing coastal escape. Start with a stroll along Island Bay Beach, followed by exploring the charming village shops and cafes. Instagram

Don't miss the chance to experience the Boom Netting if the weather is right, or simply relax on the sand. It’s an easy journey by bus or car, making it an accessible and enjoyable outing. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing the Boom Netting

The Boom Netting is a unique and exhilarating activity that's a must-try in Island Bay. It involves being pulled through the water in a large net, offering a refreshing and fun experience, especially on a warm day. It's a fantastic way to cool off and enjoy the bay's waters in a novel way. TikTok

Many visitors find the Boom Netting to be a highlight of their trip to Island Bay. It's often described as a thrilling yet safe adventure, perfect for families and groups of friends looking for something different. Remember to check the operating hours and any specific requirements before heading out, as these can vary. Instagram

This activity truly captures the spirit of Island Bay's coastal charm, offering a memorable experience that stands out from typical beach activities. It’s a great story to tell and a fun way to make the most of your visit to this Wellington gem. TikTok

Island Bay's Village Vibe

Island Bay is more than just its beach; it's a thriving village with a distinct character. The village center is dotted with charming cafes, independent boutiques, and art galleries, reflecting a creative and community-focused atmosphere. It’s a place where you can easily spend an afternoon browsing unique finds and enjoying local hospitality. Instagram

Visitors often rave about the relaxed pace and friendly nature of Island Bay. It feels like a small town within the city, offering a welcome escape from the urban hustle. The art galleries are particularly noteworthy, showcasing local talent and providing a glimpse into the area's artistic community. Instagram

Whether you're looking for a great cup of coffee, a unique souvenir, or simply a pleasant stroll, Island Bay's village offers a delightful experience. It’s this blend of coastal beauty and local charm that makes it a beloved spot for both residents and visitors. Instagram

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