Restrooms
Not AvailableNo
Food & Drinks
AvailableYes – cafés and shops nearby at Palm Beach
Parking
AvailableYes – limited parking near Palm Beach access
Nudity Policy
OPTIONALNudity is optional
The Good
- Beautiful and secluded: Little Palm Beach is a quiet little spot just past the rocks at the end of Palm Beach. It’s small, calm, and the water’s so clear it almost looks unreal.
- Relaxed naturist vibe: Clothing is optional, and visitors describe a balanced, respectful mix of naturists and clothed beachgoers. The atmosphere stays friendly and calm.
- Easy to reach: You can walk over from Palm Beach or take the short trail from Cory Road. Both paths offer great views.
- Peaceful mornings: Mornings are super peaceful here; birds singing, waves rolling in - perfect if you want a slow swim or to soak up the sun before it gets busy.
- Nearby conveniences: A café and small stores sit near Palm Beach’s main entrance, handy for snacks or coffee before or after your visit.
The Bad
- No facilities: There are no toilets, showers, or changing rooms in the cove itself.
- Mixed use: It’s only mildly naturist in the mornings; by midday more visitors arrive clothed, which can change the feel of the place.
- Dog and litter issues: Reports mention unleashed dogs and occasional disregard for smoking and vaping rules on the main beach.
- Limited parking: Spaces near Palm Beach fill quickly in summer.
- Steep access path: The trail from Cory Road can be slippery or tiring for some visitors.
The Naked Truth
Little Palm Beach has that easy, laid-back vibe Waiheke’s known for. It’s quiet, surrounded by trees and cliffs, and feels a bit hidden from the world. People come here to unwind and do their own thing - some go nude, some don’t - and everyone seems comfortable either way.
It’s a place for simple pleasures: swimming, sunbathing, and listening to birds. There’s no built infrastructure, so it’s best for those comfortable bringing what they need and leaving the spot as they found it. The short walk adds to the sense of discovery, and once you arrive, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming.
Insider Tip
Plan your visit around low tide, when the short rock crossing between Palm Beach and Little Palm is much easier and safer. The path can get slippery at high tide, so sturdy sandals or bare feet with good grip help.
Who's Here
Locals and visitors looking for a peaceful beach; a mix of naturists and casual beachgoers.
Beach Surface
Soft white sand and gentle waves; clear water for swimming
Access Difficulty
Moderate: short walk from Palm Beach or a steep trail from Cory Road.
Photos
Our Visit
Discover the beauty and freedom of Little Palm Beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Discover the beauty and freedom of Little Palm Beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Map
Getting There
Reaching Little Palm Beach is part of the adventure and well worth the effort - it’s one of Waiheke’s most peaceful, tucked-away spots. The beach sits just beyond the western end of Palm Beach and is easy to reach once you know where to go.
By Public Transport:
Take the Waiheke Ferry from Downtown Auckland to Matiatia Wharf (about 35 minutes). Once you arrive, hop on the 502 bus toward Palm Beach — it’s a scenic ride that winds past vineyards and rolling hills. Get off at the Palm Beach stop, then follow the main path down to the sand. Walk to the far western end of Palm Beach, and you’ll spot a short rocky path over the point. A quick scramble across brings you to Little Palm Beach, the unofficial clothing-optional section.
By Car:
If you’re already on Waiheke or have brought a vehicle across on the car ferry from Half Moon Bay, drive toward Palm Beach and park near the main beach access. Parking is limited, especially on weekends, so it’s best to arrive early or visit on a weekday. From the car park, walk to the western end of the main beach and cross the rocks to reach Little Palm, it only takes a few minutes.
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