Portobello Beach: A Family-Friendly Beach in a Quaint Village Setting
Journey to Portobello Beach, where family fun meets charming history—discover the hidden gems waiting just beyond the sandy shores.
Awesome places to swim
Dunedin, with its stunning beaches, natural pools, and rivers, offers locals and visitors a range of free swimming spots that showcase the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island. From tranquil bays with calm waters to rugged beaches with powerful waves, Dunedin has something for every type of swimmer. This guide highlights the best free swimming spots in Dunedin, detailing accessibility, facilities, safety considerations, and what makes each location unique.
Journey to Portobello Beach, where family fun meets charming history—discover the hidden gems waiting just beyond the sandy shores.
Nestled in Leith Valley, Sullivan’s Dam is a tranquil retreat, perfect for nature lovers seeking adventure—discover the hidden gems that await you.
A picturesque retreat just north of Dunedin, Ross Creek Reservoir invites you to explore its stunning landscapes and rich history—discover what awaits you!
A hidden gem on the Otago Peninsula, Macandrew Bay Beach offers a tranquil swimming experience—discover what makes this spot a must-visit!
Perfect for nature lovers, Silverstream near Mosgiel offers stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, inviting you to explore its hidden treasures. Discover what awaits you!
Kick back at Broad Bay Beach, where tranquil waters and hidden treasures await—discover the perfect family getaway just outside Dunedin’s city center.
Hidden in lush greenery, Nicols Creek offers a magical swimming experience with waterfalls and wildlife—discover the secrets that await you!
A delightful oasis for kids, Woodhaugh Gardens Paddling Pool offers safety and fun—discover the perfect day out for your little ones!
Aramoana Beach offers a tranquil swimming experience with breathtaking views and unique wildlife; discover its hidden gems and rich history.
Take a journey to Purakaunui Beach, where stunning views and hidden adventures await—discover what makes this secluded gem so special.
Keen to uncover the perfect family getaway? Discover the wonders of Warrington Beach, where adventure and relaxation await!
Prepare to be captivated by St Kilda Beach’s golden sands and vibrant wildlife, but there’s so much more waiting for you to uncover.
You’ll discover why St Clair Beach is Dunedin’s ultimate destination for swimming and surfing, offering more than just waves and sand.
Hidden behind a hand-carved tunnel, Tunnel Beach offers an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning views and vibrant marine life waiting to be discovered.
You won’t believe the captivating history and stunning beauty awaiting you at Whareakeake Beach, a hidden gem just waiting to be explored.
Capture unforgettable wildlife encounters and breathtaking coastal views at Sandfly Bay, where nature’s beauty awaits—what will you discover next?
Perfect for family fun, Brighton Beach offers stunning views and activities; discover the secrets that make this coastal retreat unforgettable.
Bask in the serene beauty of Allans Beach, where swimming and wildlife encounters await; discover the hidden treasures that make this spot unforgettable.
With stunning cliffs, serene shores, and secret sea caves, Long Beach invites you to discover its hidden wonders that await your exploration.
St. Clair Beach is one of Dunedin’s most iconic beaches, offering both a popular swimming spot and vibrant seaside atmosphere. Known for its scenic views, golden sands, and proximity to cafes and amenities, St. Clair is a must-visit for swimmers of all levels.
Why Visit: St. Clair Beach combines scenic views with convenient facilities, creating a perfect balance of natural beauty and comfort for swimmers.
St. Kilda Beach, just adjacent to St. Clair, offers a longer stretch of sand and a slightly more secluded feel. While the waves can be strong, this beach is great for those who enjoy open-water swimming or body surfing.
Why Visit: St. Kilda Beach is less crowded than St. Clair, offering a more tranquil environment with ample space for swimming, beach walks, and picnics.
Located about 20 minutes southwest of Dunedin, Brighton Beach is a local favorite with a relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly swimming options. Known for its gentle waves and clear waters, Brighton Beach provides an excellent spot for families with young children.
Why Visit: Brighton Beach’s calm waters and family-friendly amenities make it a safe and enjoyable swimming destination for all ages, with plenty of space for beach activities and relaxation.
Macandrew Bay on the Otago Peninsula is a peaceful swimming spot with calm, shallow waters ideal for young families and those seeking a quiet escape. With its sheltered bay, it offers safe swimming in a picturesque setting.
Why Visit: Macandrew Bay’s sheltered waters and scenic surroundings make it an excellent spot for a relaxed day of swimming and picnicking away from the crowds.
Warrington Beach, located about 25 minutes north of Dunedin, is a beautiful white-sand beach that attracts families and those looking for a peaceful swimming spot. Known for its calm waters and safe swimming areas, Warrington Beach is ideal for those who prefer a quieter, natural setting.
Why Visit: Warrington Beach offers a tranquil environment with beautiful sands and clear waters, making it a hidden gem for those looking for a quiet swim in a scenic location.
Long Beach is a remote and stunning beach surrounded by cliffs and unique rock formations, making it a popular spot for both swimming and exploring. The beach’s relative isolation creates a peaceful swimming environment, perfect for those seeking solitude.
Why Visit: With its scenic cliffs and caves, Long Beach provides a truly unique swimming experience, ideal for adventurous swimmers and those seeking a natural escape.
Purakaunui Inlet is a sheltered spot known for its calm waters and picturesque surroundings, offering a relaxed environment for swimming and kayaking. Located near the small community of Purakaunui, this inlet is popular among families and those looking for a peaceful swim in natural waters.
Why Visit: The inlet’s calm waters and secluded setting make it a perfect spot for a quiet swim, with beautiful natural scenery and ample opportunities for birdwatching and exploring.
Tomahawk Beach, located just south of St. Kilda, is a quiet beach with golden sands and beautiful views, making it an excellent choice for a more private swimming experience. The beach is popular among locals who enjoy its peaceful environment and spacious sands.
Why Visit: Tomahawk Beach’s serene setting and golden sands make it a beautiful choice for swimmers looking to enjoy a peaceful coastal experience close to the city.
Smaills Beach is another gem near Dunedin that offers a quieter alternative to the busier St. Clair and St. Kilda beaches. Known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, Smaills Beach is an excellent spot for those looking to swim in a less crowded environment.
Why Visit: Smaills Beach’s scenic beauty and tranquil environment make it a favorite for locals seeking a less crowded swimming experience.
Located in the suburb of Mosgiel, Silverstream Waterhole is a freshwater swimming spot known for its cool, clear waters and shaded surroundings. This natural swimming hole is popular among locals during the warmer months.
Why Visit: Silverstream Waterhole provides a unique swimming experience in freshwater, offering a relaxing escape from the coastal beaches.
Dunedin’s coastline, rivers, and natural waterholes offer a variety of free swimming spots that cater to both adventurous swimmers and those seeking calm, family-friendly environments. With beaches like St. Clair and St. Kilda offering convenient amenities and places like Long Beach and Purakaunui Inlet providing scenic, tranquil escapes, Dunedin has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this guide will help you discover the best places to enjoy Dunedin’s natural beauty through a refreshing swim.
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© February 8, 2025 | Explore Dunedin