Location
New Zealand
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
About Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is a long stretch of golden sand on the coast of the Hastings District in Hawke's Bay, between Cape Kidnappers to the north and Waimārama to the south. The road from Hastings winds over the hills to reach it. The main access point, near the surf club, is where lifesaving patrols run in summer. Further along, the beach runs for kilometres and is quieter, with far less development than its neighbour Waimārama. Police said that an unofficial naturist area lies about 400 metres north of the surf club, which is where naturist use has been reported. Surf here can be strong, so swimmers should stay in the patrolled section. Nude use on this beach is not lawful under the local bylaw unless the council designates it, so this page is a warning rather than a guide to an accepted nude beach.
Getting there
Drive from Hastings over the hills to reach the coast, following the winding road. The main access point, near the surf club, has the parking and patrol area in summer. The walk to the quieter northern stretch is long, and the sources reviewed do not give walk-in time or parking costs. Check local signage before you park. Public transport and facilities for wheelchair users were not confirmed. Do not undress on this beach: nudity here is prohibited by bylaw unless the council designates the beach.
Amenities
Legal context
Hastings District Council's beach bylaw, as reported in a November 2025 news story, prohibits appearing nude or insufficiently dressed on a beach unless the council designates it clothing-optional by publicly notified resolution. The council said there are no nudist beaches in the district, including Ocean Beach. Police said they could charge indecent or offensive conduct and increased patrols after an indecent act in November 2025. The bylaw was not checked on the council site.
Naturism at Ocean Beach sits under New Zealand's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: New Zealand public nudity guide.
Researched 25 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. -39.7429, 177.0110
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
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Frequently asked questions
Is nudity legal at Ocean Beach?
No. Hastings District Council's bylaw prohibits nudity on beaches unless a beach is formally designated clothing-optional, and the council says there are none in the district. Police have said they can act on indecent conduct.
Is Ocean Beach family-friendly?
It is popular with surfers and families, especially near the patrolled surf club area. Nudity is not appropriate there.
Where is the naturist area?
Police have described an unofficial naturist area about 400 metres north of the surf club. Using it would still fall foul of the bylaw.
Is there lifeguard cover?
Surf lifesaving patrols run at the main access point in summer. The stretch beyond the patrol area is unpatrolled.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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