Devonport occupies a peninsula between the Waitematā Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf, giving the area a strong maritime role. Local beaches include Cheltenham Beach, Narrow Neck Beach and smaller waterfront areas used for swimming, walking, kayaking and general recreation.
The ferry terminal provides a direct passenger connection with central Auckland. Naval facilities have operated in Devonport for generations, and the Royal New Zealand Navy remains closely associated with the suburb. The waterfront route from the village to Torpedo Bay passes beaches, reserves and harbour viewpoints.
The Navy Museum is located at Torpedo Bay, approximately a twenty-minute waterfront walk from the ferry terminal.