Restrooms
Not AvailableNo
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
AvailableYes
Nudity Policy
OPTIONALNudity common
The Good
- Scenic and peaceful at first glance: Ladies Bay sits beneath cream-to-gold cliffs at Achilles Point in St Heliers. The descent through pōhutukawa trees opens to turquoise water, soft sand, and headland views of Rangitoto Island and the Hauraki Gulf.
- Historic naturist spot: Long regarded as Auckland’s most well-known unofficial nude beach community. The cliffs provide shelter and privacy, especially on quiet weekdays.
- Fishing and walking: A rocky platform on the northeast end is popular for fishing. Walk up to the Achilles Point lookout for panoramic harbour views.
- Close to cafés and family beaches: Mission Bay, Kohimarama, and St Heliers are only minutes away for food, toilets, and safer swimming.
The Bad
- Inappropriate Behavior: Ladies Bay has a long-standing reputation for voyeurism and inappropriate behaviour from a small group of men who loiter or harass visitors. Several women have reported being stared at or even approached aggressively.
- Complaints: Police have received complaints, but issues persist on warm days.
- No patrols or lifeguards; the cove is isolated beneath steep cliffs.
- Stair access only: Narrow, steep, and tiring on the way back up.
- At high tide, the beach nearly disappears.
The Naked Truth
Ladies Bay is beautiful but the atmosphere depends entirely on who else is there. Respectful naturists visit often, but it also attracts voyeurs.
This is not recommended for families, solo visitors, or those seeking a calm swim. For a friendlier and safer naturist environment, try St Leonards Bay (North Shore) or Uretiti Beach (Northland) instead.
Insider Tip
If you visit: Go with a friend or group; avoid going alone. Stay near others who seem respectful. Leave if you feel uncomfortable and report lewd behaviour (Police 105 non-emergency).
Who's Here
A mixed crowd - naturists, curious locals, occasional tourists, and some unwelcome voyeurs. Weekdays are calmer; weekends draw more onlookers.
Beach Surface
Fine sand with rocky edges and pōhutukawa shade. The water is clear but unpatrolled.
Access Difficulty
Moderate-to-hard: steep stairway descent from Achilles Point carpark; not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Photos
Our Visit
Discover the beauty and freedom of Ladies Bay, a stunning nude beach destination.
Discover the beauty and freedom of Ladies Bay, a stunning nude beach destination.
Map
Getting There
From central Auckland, follow Tāmaki Drive to St Heliers Bay, continue onto Cliff Road, and park near the Achilles Point lookout. Stairs down to the beach begin just before the viewing platform.
By bus: Take the Tāmaki Link from Britomart to the St Heliers terminus, then walk 10–15 minutes uphill along Cliff Road.
Recommended Accommodation
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