Island Bay Travel Guide
Wellington
Popular places to visit
Island Bay Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Island Bay Beach during your trip to Wellington? Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Te Papa
See, smell and touch the exhibits at New Zealand’s hi-tech and interactive free national museum.
Cuba Street Mall
Enjoy artisan coffees, sample specialty foods, browse through vintage shops or hunt for retro bargains in Wellington's bohemian heart.
Wellington Central Business District
Wellington Central Business District is just one of the places to see in Wellington, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
Courtenay Place
Shop, wine and dine in this culinary hot spot on one of Wellington's most fashionable streets.
Lambton Quay
During your visit to Wellington, you can do some window-shopping at Lambton Quay. Stroll along this family-friendly area's waterfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Things to do
Wellington: Return Cable Car Ticket
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Wellington: Wētā Workshop Guided Tour Ticket
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
Axe Throwing Lesson and Tournament
Top hotels in Island Bay
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Check in and check out was a breeze with very friendly staff. Rooms were tidy and spacious. Shower was huge with excellent pressure. Towels were soft and a great size. Beds and pillows were very comfortable. Would not hesitate to recommend to family and friends. Will definitely stay again.
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington Airport
Didn't have breakfast, so no comment. The major restaurant was closed, but the Peltonen had a simple menu and their food was excellent. Well done to who ever is in charge of Food & Beverage there
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Great clean and close to everything
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Rydges Wellington
All was as you would expect- i live part time in Wellington and stay in the city for the occasional day- great stay
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
ibis Wellington
Only parking let this down. Everything else was fine.
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
Oaks Wellington Hotel
Room was large, comfortable, and very clean. The balcony was much bigger than expected. Staff is great and the property is perfectly located in the middle of the city.
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Island Bay
Lyall Bay
Lyall Bay is well liked for its beaches. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Wellington area, you might plan a trip to Wellington Zoo or Newtown Park.
Newtown
If you're spending some time in Newtown, Newtown Park and Wellington Zoo are top sights worth seeing.
Kilbirnie
Restaurants and shopping are notable features of Kilbirnie. You might consider stopping by ASB Sports Centre while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Brooklyn
Though Brooklyn may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Basin Reserve and Central Park.
Mount Cook
If you're spending some time in Mount Cook, Basin Reserve and Central Park are top sights worth seeing.
Mount Victoria
If you're spending some time in Mount Victoria, Mount Victoria Lookout and Oriental Parade are top sights worth seeing.
