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Sandfly Bay

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Sandfly Bay

Sandfly Bay

Located on the southern side of the Otago Peninsula, this is a sandy beach characterized by large sand dunes. It serves as a wildlife reserve, making it a destination for those interested in nature hikes and observing local fauna in a protected environment.

Getting There

The beach is situated approximately 15km east of central Dunedin. Access is typically by car, and the drive from the city centre generally takes around 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions.

Time Allocation

Visitors should allow 2 to 3 hours for a visit. This provides sufficient time to walk from the parking area through the dunes to the shoreline and back.

Planning Your Visit

The area is best visited during the daylight hours. As it is a nature reserve, visitors should be prepared for the coastal weather of the Otago region. While not typically overcrowded, it is advisable to wear appropriate footwear for hiking through sandy terrain.

Nearby Attractions

The location can be combined with other sites on the Otago Peninsula. Nearby points of interest include:

  • Boulder Beach (2.4km)
  • Larnach Castle (4.5km)
  • Smaills Beach (6.5km)
  • Tomahawk Lagoon (7.6km)

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 Sandfly Bay

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

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Good to visit alongside

Boulder Beach

Nature

Boulder Beach

A pebble beach on the south coast of the Otago Peninsula, about a 15km drive from central Dunedin. Since yellow-eyed penguins nest here, access is restricted every year from November to February for their protection.

2.4 km away
Larnach Castle

Castles & palaces

Larnach Castle

A grand estate perched on a ridge of Dunedin's Otago Peninsula, built in a castle style rarely seen in New Zealand. Constructed by a businessman, it is now open to the public as a tourist attraction where visitors can explore the interior.

4.5 km away
Smaills Beach

Nature

Smaills Beach

A Pacific coast beach about 7.6km southeast of central Dunedin, located where the Otago Peninsula meets the mainland. Mostly covered in white sand with a volcanic rock area at its western end, it's a nice spot for a scenic walk.

6.5 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.

7.6 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.

7.7 km away
Quarantine Island / Kamau Taurua

Nature

Quarantine Island / Kamau Taurua

The largest island in Otago Harbour near Dunedin, it's a recreational nature reserve open to everyone. Island facilities are jointly managed by the local community and conservation authorities.

8.0 km away