The Lyall Bay Day Plan

There’s no better place to start the day than at Maranui. This beloved local institution sits right above the beach, serving generous breakfasts alongside one of the best ocean views in the city. The vibe inside is colourful, relaxed, and a little bit quirky - vintage decor, sun pouring through massive windows, and the hum of locals catching up over coffee. Grab something hearty like their famous breakfasts or a cabinet treat and settle in while watching the first surfers of the day paddle out.

After fuelling up for the day, head down to the beach for a stroll along this very popular stretch of sand. This is one of Wellington’s most active surf beaches, so keep an eye out both for beginners wobbling through their first lesson and experienced locals carving through the morning swell. Need a quick pit stop for a second coffee (we won’t judge) or a sweet treat? Pop in to Onepū, just off Lyall Parade, for a quick recharge before heading to the shops.

It’s not all waves and sand - Lyall Bay punches well above its weight when it comes to interesting independent stores. Start with the Real Aotearoa gallery store, where you’ll find thoughtfully curated New Zealand-made art and gifts that celebrate local makers. A few steps away down an unassuming alleyway, you’ll find Ocean Hunter, who cater to all your spearfishing and freediving needs, along with the surfer’s paradise that is Real Surf - stocking boards, wetsuits, and everything needed to get out on the water for the last 30-odd years.

From there, wander through the cluster of creative businesses at Lyall Bay Junction. Browse contemporary abstract pieces at Jane Blackmore Gallery, admire designer Tymone Winter’s latest creations at Empire of Genius, or browse authentic European smoked meats at The Polish Sausage Company.

For lunch, head over to The Botanist, one of Wellington’s most renowned plant-based eateries. The plant-filled interior and sweeping views over the bay add to the laid-back coastal atmosphere, providing the ideal ambience for digging into some seriously exquisite eats. The menu leans heavily toward vibrant vegetarian and vegan dishes, with plenty of creative, colourful plates - think vegan shakshuka, gochujang scrambled eggs, and edamame avocado toast.

Keen to freshen up with a brand new haircut - or something even bolder? If you’re in the mood to shake up your look, step into Bay City Tattoo and Barbershop, home of Wellington’s famous TikTok barber, Ken Aperila. Along with Jaco Schmidt, the duo bring a combined 30+ years of industry experience, so you know you’re in safe hands. Even if you’re just popping in for a browse, you can indulge in the relaxed, creative atmosphere, which adds yet another element to Lyall Bay’s eclectic character.

For the perfect afternoon treat, drop by the Wonderland Chocolate shop and factory at Lyall Bay Junction, home to this iconic Wellington brand. The small-batch chocolate makers here are passionate about ethically sourced cacao and creative flavour combinations - and it’s not hard to see why their range has such a fervent following, in the capital and beyond. Drop in to taste a few samples, chat with the team about how the chocolate is made, and pick up a few beautifully packaged chocolate blocks or bags to take home. 

As the day winds down, make your way to Southward Distilling for a gin tasting session with a difference. You’ll find a range of experiences to suit your tastes - try Gin 2.0, a journey through the ‘wilder side’ of Southward’s range, where you can sample gins outside their core range, such as seasonal, limited, and collab releases. Or for something even more hands-on, book yourself in for a Blend Your Own Gin session, which includes a guided tasting of Southward’s core range, a sharing platter, and a promise of bad jokes and good times - and of course, your very own 500ml gin to take home.

Cap off the day at the local favourite, Parrotdog Brewery & Nice. Takeaway. The spacious taproom is the envy of small towns across the country, pouring a rotating lineup of Parrotdog beers, from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs - perfect accompaniments to a juicy burger, fried chicken, or other guilty pleasures. Grab a fresh pint, order some bites to share, and reflect on a day well spent by the sea.