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Ocean Beach

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Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is a 3km stretch of sandy coastline on the southern edge of Dunedin, extending from St Clair to Lawyers Head via St Kilda. Visitors use this area for swimming, surfing, and walking along the shore.

Getting There

The beach is accessible from Dunedin city centre via local bus services or by car. The trip typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes depending on the specific section of the coast you are visiting.

Duration of Visit

Depending on your activity, allow 2 to 4 hours. This provides enough time for a walk between the St Clair and St Kilda areas or a session of surfing and swimming.

When to Visit

The beach is most active during the summer months when the weather is suitable for water sports. It can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. Visitors should be aware of local surf conditions and signage before entering the water.

Nearby Attractions

You can combine a visit to the coast with other local sites in the southern part of the city:

  • St Michael's Antiochian Orthodox Church (1.3km)
  • St Patrick's Basilica, South Dunedin (1.7km)
  • Mayfair Theatre (2.1km)
  • Tomahawk Beach (2.6km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Ocean Beach

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Ocean Beach Nearby stays

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Good to visit alongside

St Michael's Antiochian Orthodox Church

Temples & religious sites

St Michael's Antiochian Orthodox Church

A church in Dunedin belonging to the Greek Orthodox tradition, built in 1911 as New Zealand's first Orthodox church building. Listed as a New Zealand historic site, it offers a chance to experience its long-standing heritage.

1.3 km away
St Patrick's Basilica, South Dunedin

Temples & religious sites

St Patrick's Basilica, South Dunedin

A Catholic church located in South Dunedin. It's worth a look, as architect Francis Petre departed from the Gothic style of St Joseph's Cathedral to try something new with this building.

1.7 km away
Mayfair Theatre

Culture & venues

Mayfair Theatre

A performance venue in Dunedin that first opened as a cinema in 1914. Today it operates as a 400-seat theatre hosting local and touring shows.

2.1 km away
Tomahawk Beach

Nature

Tomahawk Beach

A white-sand beach a short distance southeast of downtown Dunedin, where the Otago Peninsula meets the mainland. It's a great spot for surfing, walking, and outings with dogs.

2.6 km away
Kensington Oval

Parks & gardens

Kensington Oval

A park and sports ground in Kensington, Dunedin. Formerly known as the South Dunedin Recreation Ground, it remains a popular spot with locals today.

2.6 km away
Tomahawk Lagoon

Nature

Tomahawk Lagoon

This forked lagoon lies at the western end of Dunedin's Otago Peninsula, not far from the city centre. Close to the village of Ocean Grove, it's a peaceful spot for a nature walk.

2.7 km away