Restrooms
Not AvailableNo
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
AvailableYes
Nudity Policy
OPTIONALNudity common
The Good
- A beautiful little escape: Ladies Bay is tucked beneath the cliffs at Achilles Point, just around the corner from St Heliers. Despite being surprisingly close to central Auckland, it feels secluded, with views across the Hauraki Gulf towards Rangitoto Island.
- One of Auckland’s best-known nude beaches: Nude bathing has a long history here and Ladies Bay remains one of the city’s most recognisable clothing-optional spots. On the right day, it’s an easy place to strip off, relax and enjoy the water without travelling far from the city.
- Sheltered and secluded: The small cove and surrounding cliffs give the beach a much more private feel than the busy beaches around Mission Bay and St Heliers.
- Great location: Achilles Point lookout is directly above the beach, while the cafés, restaurants and facilities of St Heliers are only a short walk away.
The Bad
- The vibe can vary: Genuine naturists still use the beach, but depending on the day and who is there, the atmosphere can feel very different. Some visitors — particularly women — have reported feeling uncomfortable.
- Small and isolated: This is a secluded little cove rather than a large open beach, so there isn’t much room to move away from someone who is making you uncomfortable.
- Steep access: You’ll need to tackle a fairly substantial set of stairs from Cliff Road — easy enough going down, considerably less fun coming back up!
- Limited facilities: Don’t expect the facilities you’ll find at nearby St Heliers. Bring what you need and check current swimming conditions before getting in the water.
The Naked Truth
Ladies Bay is one of Auckland’s best-known naturist spots — a small, secluded beach below the cliffs at St Heliers where nude sunbathing has been common for decades.
It’s easy to reach from the city and feels surprisingly tucked away once you’re down on the beach. On a warm day, you’ll usually find a mix of regular naturists and other visitors enjoying the water and views across the Hauraki Gulf.
Like some urban nude beaches, Ladies Bay can occasionally attract people who confuse naturism with sexual behaviour. That isn’t what defines the beach, though, and the atmosphere is generally much better when there’s a good crowd of genuine naturists around.
One of the best things about Ladies Bay is how close it is to everything. You can grab a coffee in St Heliers and be naked on the beach a few minutes later.
For an easy-to-reach nude beach in Auckland, it’s hard to beat.
Insider Tip
For your first visit, go on a nice day when other naturists are around - there’s always comfort in numbers. Settle in, strip off and enjoy the beach. If anyone behaves inappropriately, don’t be afraid to move away, speak up or report it.
Who's Here
A mixed crowd - naturists, curious locals and occasional tourists. Weekdays are much calmer.
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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