Rona Bay is a sand and pebble beach at 6 Marine Parade in Eastbourne, Lower Hutt, with sand hills and a large park behind it. It is long and busy, pet friendly and very clean, about 8.4 kilometres from the centre of Lower Hutt. The site is a family favourite, with changing rooms, a pool, toilets, a playground and plenty of parking.
Water quality is tested by Greater Wellington Regional Council, with samples taken weekly from 1 November to 31 March. The swim status on the Swim Guide site is based on the latest sample. The advice is to avoid swimming for two to three days after heavy rain, and to check that you can see your toes in knee-deep water. Our pick in Eastbourne for a family beach day with a playground nearby.