Auckland’s best beaches offer a spectrum of experiences, ranging from the surf-trimmed expanses of the region’s west coast to the lively cafe culture and family-friendly locations along the serpentine bays of Tāmaki Drive.
Moreover, venture further afield, both north and south, for exceptional swimming beaches. Combine sandy escapes with fine food, beer, and wine on Waiheke Island. Fly or take a vehicle ferry to forested Great Barrier Island for an exceptional mix of surfing and stargazing.
Mission Bay: The Urban Diversion
Mission Bay, the standout stretch of sand along Auckland’s Tāmaki Drive, is an inviting destination for families. Join others for an impromptu game of touch rugby or volleyball, enjoy a relaxing picnic on the grass with delicious fish and chips, or witness the gradual illumination of Mission Bay’s art deco fountain as twilight sets in. After dark, bars and restaurants like Good George Tap Room and Azabu remain vibrant spots to unwind.
Takapuna: Paddle-boarding and Ice Cream
Across the Auckland Harbour Bridge lies Takapuna, renowned for its breathtaking views of Rangitoto, the 700-year-old volcanic island that enhances the Hauraki Gulf’s eastern horizon. This beach is a favorite for swimming and paddleboarding. In the mornings, it seems almost obligatory to walk your dog while indulging in an essential ice cream from the Takapuna Beach Cafe.
Piha: The West Coast’s Surf Paradise
Dominated by the imposing Lion Rock, which is the eroded core of an ancient volcano, Piha is Auckland’s most popular west coast surf beach. At low tide, visitors can traverse the black sands to observe the Camel and the Gap rock formations. The Mercer Bay Loop Track, perched high above, offers stunning panoramic views of the Tasman Sea’s rolling waves. Don’t miss a visit to the relaxed Murray, a delightful fusion of surf shack and cafe, ideal for coffee and tacos.
Muriwai: Surfing, Paragliding, and Blokarting
Muriwai showcases the thrills of surf and the invigorating Tasman breezes. Board riders conquer the waves at nearby Maukatia Bay, while paragliders ride the thermals above Muriwai’s black sands. During favorable winds, blokart enthusiasts navigate their land yachts along the beach’s sandy track, while tākapu (Australasian gannets) launch from rocky islands at the southern edge of the beach.
Te Henga (Bethells Beach): A Mini Adventure Awaits
Known as Te Henga in Māori, Bethells is one of the more secluded beaches on Auckland’s west coast. Accessing this windswept stretch of black sand often means embarking on a mini-adventure through the shallow waters of the Waitakere River. Visit on summer weekends to enjoy burgers, pizza, and coffee from the Bethells Café food truck.
Onetangi: Bodyboarding and Sunset Beers
Onetangi, located on Waiheke, is a bodyboarding paradise with the longest beach on the island, offering ample room for leisure. After a day of excitement in the water, head to Ki Māha across the road for craft beers from Waiheke’s Alibi Brewing paired with fresh oysters from Te Matuku Marine Reserve.
Man O’War Bay: Jumping Off the Pier
The unsealed roads leading to Waiheke’s Man O’War Bay promise a bumpy drive, but arriving via floatplane from downtown Auckland is an alternative worth considering. Enjoy beach cricket on the beach’s compact shore, test your jumping skills off the historic wharf, or indulge in the Valhalla chardonnay from Man O’War Vineyards for a more sophisticated experience.
Medlands Beach: Wildlife and Stargazing
Medlands, located on Auckland’s most distant Hauraki Gulf island, is often fortunate to play host to dolphins and occasionally orca. Popular for both surfing and bodyboarding, this beach was designated an International Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017, offering mesmerizing views of the southern hemisphere’s night sky thanks to Good Heavens’ Dark Sky Ambassadors. During summer, visitors can savor locally crafted gin from Island Gin’s tasting room that features botanicals sourced from the island.
Matheson Bay: The Premier Swimming Destination
Matheson Bay, adorned with the vibrant crimson of pōhutukawa trees—often referred to as “New Zealand’s Christmas tree”—is one of the region’s finest swimming beaches. Even at low tide, the beach offers generous depths for swimming. Located approximately one hour north of Auckland, consider complementing your visit with a trip to the Saturday morning farmers’ market at nearby Matakana.
Tāpapakanga: Ideal for Coastal Walking Trails
Located an hour southeast of Auckland, Tāpapakanga regional park is a must-visit spot for coastal walking enthusiasts. Plan a visit during late February to partake in the Splore festival, which celebrates music, dance, and culture, or enjoy the park’s scenic walking trails and tree-shaded coves in serene solitude during the weekdays throughout the year.
This article was first published on February 2, 2022, and updated on October 3, 2023.
