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Ocean Beach, Hawke's Bay
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · NZ

Ocean Beach, Hawke's Bay

Getting around: About 20-25 minutes' drive southeast of central Napier, on the way toward Cape Kidnappers. A car is necessary; no direct public transport reaches it.
Hours: No fixed hours — open beach access at all times, though there's no lifeguard patrol, so exercise caution.

Ocean Beach is a wild, undeveloped surf beach south of Napier, popular with surfers and locals looking for a quieter alternative to the city's Marine Parade waterfront. It has strong currents and no lifeguard presence, so it suits confident swimmers and surfers more than casual family swimming.

The drive out passes rural Hawke's Bay farmland, and the beach itself is a good stop en route to or from Cape Kidnappers.

Ocean Beach, Hawke's Bay FAQs

Is it patrolled by lifeguards?

No, there's no lifeguard patrol, so swim with caution given the strong currents.

Is it good for surfing?

Yes, it's a popular local surf spot, generally better suited to more experienced surfers given the conditions.

Is it family-friendly for swimming?

Less so than patrolled beaches — it suits confident swimmers more than young families given the lack of lifeguards and stronger surf.

Are there facilities?

Minimal — mostly just a car park, so bring your own supplies.

Can I combine it with Cape Kidnappers?

Yes, it's on the route toward Cape Kidnappers and makes a good stop along the way.

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