A sweeping white-sand beach just minutes from the central city, St Clair is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, walking and socialising and dining out.
Facing the wild blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean, St Clair Beach boasts New Zealand’s most consistent surf break and on any given day, summer or winter, the waves are a playground for local surfers.
The St Clair Esplanade has long been a popular leisure destination for weekend walks or dips in the sea, with the cafes and bars lining the promenade an attraction in their own right.
These eateries are something of a mecca in the summer months and the outdoor tables offer an excellent vantage point to watch the world go by.
At the end of the beach sits the St Clair Hot Salt Water Pool(opens in new window), which dates back to 1884 and is one of the only heated seawater pools in New Zealand.
For water sports enthusiasts, there are surfing lessons and board hire available on the Esplanade during the summer months and by arrangementat other times during the year.
There are a number of accommodation options in the vicinity with views over the beach, which is a ten-minutedrive from the city centre. There are regular public bus services to and from the city.
