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Smaills Beach

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Smaills Beach

Smaills Beach

Located where the Otago Peninsula meets the mainland, this Pacific coast beach consists primarily of white sand. The western end of the shoreline features a volcanic rock area, making it a destination for those interested in coastal geology and scenic walking.

Getting There

The beach is situated approximately 7.6km southeast of central Dunedin. Travelers can reach the area by car, which typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes from the city center.

Duration of Visit

Depending on the pace of the walk and the amount of time spent exploring the volcanic rock formations, visitors should allow between 1 and 2 hours at the site.

When to Visit

The beach is accessible year-round. Visitors should check local tide charts before arriving to ensure the volcanic rock areas are accessible and safe for walking. As a natural coastal site, it does not have fixed operating hours, though daylight hours are recommended for safety.

Nearby Attractions

The location is well-positioned for combining with other nearby coastal spots. Within a short distance, visitors can find:

  • Tomahawk Beach (1.2km)
  • Tomahawk Lagoon (1.3km)
  • Ocean Beach (3.8km)
  • Boulder Beach (4.2km)

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 Smaills Beach

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

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Smaills Beach Nearby stays

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Good to visit alongside

Tomahawk Beach

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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.

1.2 km away
Tomahawk Lagoon

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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.

1.3 km away
Ocean Beach

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Ocean Beach

This sandy beach stretches about 3km along Dunedin's southern coast, from St Clair through St Kilda to Lawyers Head. It's a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and walking.

3.8 km away
Boulder Beach

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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.

4.2 km away
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.

4.4 km away
St Patrick's Basilica, South Dunedin

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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.

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