Cheltenham Beach is Devonport's prettiest swimming beach, a calm arc of sand facing Rangitoto Island across the harbour. It sits on the eastern side of the peninsula, away from the ferry wharf bustle but still close enough to reach on foot after exploring Victoria Road or North Head.
The appeal is simple: clear harbour views, gentle water, and a residential setting that feels a long way from central Auckland despite the short ferry ride. Bring a towel in summer, or make it part of a loop walk over North Head and back through Devonport's villa-lined streets.