How do I get to Long Beach from Russell town center?

Long Beach is easily accessible from Russell's town center via a pleasant 10-15 minute walk along the waterfront. Head north from the main wharf area along The Strand, which becomes Oneroa Road, leading directly to the beach. The walk is flat and scenic, suitable for all fitness levels. Limited parking is available near the beach for those driving. Russell itself is reached by passenger ferry from Paihia (12 minutes) or vehicle ferry from Opua, or by road via Whakapara. The beach's proximity to town makes it very convenient for visitors.

What accommodation and dining options are near Long Beach?

Long Beach is within easy walking distance of Russell's town center, which offers a range of accommodation from luxury lodges and boutique hotels to holiday homes and backpackers. Several properties provide beachfront or near-beach locations. Russell township features numerous cafes, restaurants, and a general store for supplies, all within 10-15 minutes' walk. Options range from casual fish and chips to fine dining featuring local seafood. The Duke of Marlborough Hotel is New Zealand's oldest licensed hotel and offers both accommodation and dining near the waterfront.

What makes Long Beach different from other Bay of Islands beaches?

Long Beach stands out as Russell's main swimming beach, combining sheltered swimming conditions with immediate proximity to a historic town rich in New Zealand's colonial heritage. Unlike many Bay of Islands beaches requiring boat access, Long Beach offers easy walking access from cafes, shops, and accommodations. The beach provides a more relaxed, local atmosphere compared to busier Paihia Beach across the bay. Its position makes it ideal for visitors who want beach time combined with exploring Russell's museums, historic buildings, and waterfront restaurants without needing to drive.

Russell · Northland · New Zealand

Long Beach / Oneroa Bay

The beach curves gently inside the outer headlands, sheltered enough that the water barely creases even when wind chops the main bay. You can walk here from any Russell accommodation in under ten minutes, past weatherboard villas and under Norfolk pines.

1 / 8

Conditions right now

Reading live conditions…

Live from Open-Meteo · sea surface temperature and wave data modelled at 1-km grid resolution for Long Beach / Oneroa Bay. Numbers refresh at the hourly tick.

Waves

—

01m2m3m+

Wind

—

kmh

Water

—

Air

—

OnlyBeaches IndexUpdated just now

OBI

—

Live-scored for Long Beach / Oneroa Bay

Tuned for

Purity: 0%
Conditions: 0%
Crowd: 0%
Vibe: 0%

The OnlyBeaches Index weighs four pillars against your chosen persona. Purity comes from water clarity and air-quality heuristics; Conditions from Open-Meteo waves, wind and temperatures; Crowd from historical patterns; Vibe from nearby events within 50 km. The score rebalances throughout the day.

Verified beach

Russell·Northland·New Zealand

No reviews yet

familysceniccouplessun bathing

Trending This Week

Photos

8 captures from Long Beach / Oneroa Bay

About this beach

From the Russell wharf, follow the waterfront road east and Long Beach reveals itself in sections—first through gaps in the pohutukawa, then fully as you round the point. The sand runs fine and pale, the sort that doesn't scorch bare feet even in afternoon sun. At high tide, the beach narrows to a strip between water and grass; at low, it widens into flats w…

Where it is

Long Beach / Oneroa Bay

Russell, Northland, New Zealand

-35.2613°, 174.1316°

Open in Google Maps

Top things to do

At Long Beach / Oneroa Bay

Sheltered swimming

Calm bay, gentle gradient

Harbor paddling

Launch point, protected water

Reserve picnics

Shade trees, grass space

Tapeka Point walk

Coastal track, harbor views

Near this beach

Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Long Beach / Oneroa Bay.

Loading nearby eat & drink…

Loading nightlife…

Good to know

Questions people actually ask about Long Beach / Oneroa Bay.

Is Long Beach safe for swimming and families?

Long Beach (Oneroa Bay) is one of Russell's safest swimming beaches, offering sheltered, calm waters ideal for families with children. The beach is protected from prevailing winds and large swells, creating gentle conditions most of the time. There are no lifeguard patrols, so parents should supervise children closely. The sandy bottom slopes gradually, making it comfortable for paddling and swimming. Water quality is generally very good. The beach's proximity to town means help is nearby if needed, adding to its family-friendly appeal.

When is the best time to visit Long Beach in Russell?

The best time to visit Long Beach is during New Zealand's summer months from December through March, when weather is warmest and water temperatures are most comfortable for swimming. The beach is pleasant year-round due to its sheltered position, though winter can be cooler. For fewer crowds while maintaining good weather, visit during November or April. The beach is accessible anytime and offers beautiful sunrises. Consider visiting during weekdays in peak season to avoid the busiest periods when cruise ships visit Russell.