I've always had an affinity with the beach, having grown up on the North Shore and Hibiscus Coast respectively. I've used it to swim, snorkel, surf—even spearfish. These days I'm more likely to be found jumping off the local wharf (much to my tween daughter's horror) or pounding the sand, coffee in hand, with my friends for a makeshift therapy sesh. Other times I might just sit on the shore and contemplate life (isn't there something so therapeutic about looking out to sea?).
That said, I like to think I know my Auckland beaches; here are some of my favourites from around Tāmaki Makaurau, which I hope become your favourites, too.
P.S. Always be sure to before you head out.
Auckland's Best Beaches At A Glance
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Best Day Trip Beach: Anchor Bay Beach
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Best Beach For Picnics: Long Bay Beach
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Best Beach For Swimming: Wenderholm Bay Beach
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Best Beach For Strolling: Takapuna Beach
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Best Beach For Snorkelling: Goat Island Marine Reserve
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Best Beach For Families/Kids: Ōrewa Beach
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Best Beach For Dogs: Ōrewa Beach
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Best Beach For Sunrise: Omaha Beach
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Best Beach For Sunset: Piha Beach
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Best Off-The-Beaten-Track Beach: Waipiro Bay
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The Best Beaches In Central Auckland
Sentinel Beach
Sentinel Road, Herne Bay, Auckland
Home Bay Beach Reserve
57 Wallace Street, Herne Bay, Auckland
Herne Bay Beach
Herne Bay Road, Herne Bay, Auckland
On a weekday morning, think of this beach as your very own private one because it is absolutely empty as all the locals are going about their daily routines. In the evenings though, is pumping with locals unintentionally coming together as they unwind from a long day. This beach has strong community vibes and is perfect for those who want some company.
Point Chevalier Beach
Harbour View Road, Point Chevalier, Auckland
Image credit: Point Chevalier Beach / Armelle Frimpong
Considering the location being so central, is surprisingly quiet. It's extremely dog-friendly, so it’s a favourite among the pet owners of Auckland.
The waters are calm to make it safe for swimming (in fact, one of my earliest memories of being in the ocean was here) and the nearby playground makes it a great beach for families with kids. Did we mention this beach also gets the sun all day long?
Judges Bay
3 Judges Bay Road, Parnell, Auckland
Below the Parnell Rose Gardens sits . This cute little spot is secluded and the water is calm because it sits between the land and Tamaki Drive. With a raft to jump off and plenty of grass for a picnic, this is one treasure you’ll love.
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Okahu Bay Beach
14 Tamaki Drive, Ōrākei, Auckland
This picturesque beach arguably gives the best views out of all the beaches in Central Auckland. From , you can get a good look at the Auckland skyline, Hauraki Gulf and wee little Devonport. This beach has got it all, a basketball court and a playground with a flying fox—a Kiwi favourite. To make the most of this beach, you can hire a kayak and get your paddle on. If you don’t want to get in the water, rollerblades are up for hire too.
Mission Bay Beach
72 Tamaki Drive, Mission Bay, Auckland
Image credit: Mark Leedom / Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
This beach is the perfect combination between the city and the beach. If lying in the sun on the golden sand gets a bit old, pop over to one of the many cafes for an iced coffee or tropical smoothie to freshen up or to Azabu for some sake and sashimi (I'll see you there).
For those wanting something a little stronger, nipping over the road for a beer is never a bad idea. is always going off with groups of family and friends so it’s the perfect spot for those who want lively Jersey Shore vibes.
Kohimarama Beach
72-80 Tamaki Drive, Kohimarama, Auckland
Image credit: Kohimarama Beach / Tim Marshall
Just around the corner from Mission Bay is , which provides some of the best views of Rangitoto Island. Grab a coffee and a bite to eat from one of the cafes along the beachfront (make a beeline for The Store if you've got a hankering for gelato) then take a stroll along the sands.
St Heliers Beach
384 Tāmaki Drive, St Heliers, Auckland
Taking it to the Eastern ‘burbs, one of my fave city beaches is . Cruise along Tāmaki Drive past Kohi and park up at St Heliers for the day. With plenty of eateries nearby—Saint Heliers Bay Home Cookery for pies, stacked sandos and sweet treats, St Heliers Bay Bistro for gelato or perhaps a tiramisu latte from Porch— you can spend the day at the beach without having to lift a finger (besides eating said food).
Karaka Bay Beach
22 Peacock Street, Glendowie, Auckland
For something a little less hectic, drive around St Heliers and head towards Glendowie to land yourself at . Be sure to check the tide times, as there’s not much sand at high tide. You’ll get a little view of Rangitoto Island, and you’ll also be more secluded than at other inner-city beaches.
Ladies Bay Beach
Cliff Road, St Heliers, Auckland
If it’s a beautiful day in the city, take a walk along St Heliers and to one of our favourite viewing spots, Achilles Point. From there, you can head down the stairs and . Hot out? Feel free to take your kit off entirely—this one's a bone fide nudist beach.
The Best Beaches In North Auckland
Pākiri Beach
114 M Greenwood Road, Pākiri, Auckland
Image credit: Pākiri Beach / Chris McLennan
When you imagine the ideal beach, you picture a coastline of gorgeous white sand and clear blue waters. Not many people think of galloping horses. Well, has all that and more and is the perfect place for a wee escape from the city life of Auckland.
The isolation makes it an idyllic and peaceful place when looking for some downtime. Pākiri doesn’t allow amplified music and sometimes, silence is the only thing you need to get away from your hectic schedule. In the summer, swim between the flags and avoid rips.
Omaha Beach
Broadlands Drive, Omaha, Auckland
Image credit: Omaha Beach / Kathryn Steane
An endless stretch of white sandy shoreline and crystal clear waters perfect for all manner of aquatic pursuits awaits you at , about an hour's drive north of Auckland.
Closely monitored by lifeguards throughout the summer, this slice of salty paradise (the Māori name for which translates to 'place of pleasure') is an especially great spot to hone your surfing or boogie boarding skills thanks to its gentle surf break, while there is also an estuary around the western side that is ideal for activities like paddleboarding.
What's more, Omaha Beach is just a quick drive from Matakana's many trendy cafes and vineyards—perfect for re-fuelling after a day in the water. Surfing then vino, anyone?
Goat Island Marine Reserve
Goat Island, Leigh, Auckland
Image credit: Goat Island Marine Reserve / Kathryn Steane
This one's less about lounging about on the sand and more about exploring what's beneath the waves (perfect for those of us who dreamed of becoming a marine biologist, even before we dreamed of becoming a writer). That's because is New Zealand's oldest marine reserve, making it an incredible snorkelling spot that's suitable for the whole family.
Don your snorkel and mask or your dive gear, and prepare to enter a world where rays, rock lobsters, and red moki reign supreme (Jacques Cousteau, eat your heart out). Alternatively, take a trip in a glass-bottomed boat or better yet, rent a (a see-through kayak).
P.S. Amble around the rocks, and you might just find a miniature waterfall.
Anchor Bay Beach
1181 Takatu Road, Tāwharanui Peninsula, Auckland
Image credit: Anchor Bay Beach / Kathryn Steane
Nestled within lies a golden beach called Anchor Bay. Fill up the tank because this spot is an 80-minute drive from central Auckland, making Anchor Bay the perfect day trip to get away from it all.
This pristine slice of Kiwi beauty has golden sand, the cleanest and clearest of water and smooth waves, making it a favourite for people who want a calming swim or to just get their tan on. If you want a little something extra special, head down to the rock pools which are deep enough to dive-bomb into.
Don't forget to get in a spot of bird-watching, too.
Wenderholm Bay Beach
37 Schischka Road, Waiwera, Auckland
Image credit: Wenderholm Regional Park / Aaron Birch
is one of my fave beaches and just far enough out of the central city to feel like you've truly escaped. It's surrounded by lush park-like grounds and thriving native bush with a host of great walking tracks and birdlife to boot, meaning a day here is easily spent.
The beach is as beautiful as any you'd find around Auckland, with plenty of pohutukawa trees for shade, and safe waters for swimming (it's particularly good for small children at low tide, offering shallows with almost no end, but do avoid the mouth of the Pūhoi River, where there can be strong currents). Don't forget to check out the historic while you're here—even the Queen herself once paid it a visit.
Waiwera Beach
The Strand, Waiwera, Auckland
Image credit: Waiwera Beach / Paige Steane
The home of the famous, now-defunct Waiwera Hot Pools, is great for a spot of peace, quiet, and a gentle dip. As such, this was one of my fave places to escape during the Covid lockdowns. It offers an extremely low tide, meaning you can (almost) walk to the tiny island, sitting just off the shore. You'll often see people riding horses here (again, so peaceful!), and there's also some solid sea glass-finding opportunities for the kiddos.
Ōrewa Beach
218-281 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Ōrewa, Auckland
Image credit: Ōrewa Beach / Kathryn Steane
I'm not gonna lie— can get pretty busy, especially in the summertime (I live some 200m from it so I know), but with three kilometres of sand to enjoy, it's not as bad as it sounds.
Grab a coffee or a bite to eat from one of the countless eateries along the main shopping strip, and enjoy beneath the trademark Norfolk pines—take the kids for a blat on the playground, then on an adventure around the rocks at the Northern end—let your four-legged friend loose for a run upon the sand—or don your wetsuit and hit the waves for a spot of surfing, paddleboarding or windsurfing.
Ōrewa is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months.
Te Haruhi Bay
1501 Whangaparaoa Road, Army Bay, Auckland
Image credit: Shakespear Regional Park | Sonia Gupta
is home to one of Auckland's most magnificent beaches—Te Haruhi Bay. Located at the end of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, this is one hell of a spot with rolling farmland and native bush converging on a stunning, sheltered beach that's primed for picnics, swimming and all the other usual summer past-times (just look at those incredible 360-degree views as you drive down).
If you're feeling adventurous, be sure to check out one of the many walking tracks also within the park.
Big Manly Beach
The Esplanade, Manly, Auckland
Of all the beaches on this list, is the one closest to my heart. My grandparents lived just up the road, which meant many childhood hours were spent on its shores. As I grew older, this is where I summoned up the courage to wear a bikini for the first time, and it's also where I had my first kiss (naw).
Significant life events aside, this is a gorgeous beach that's great for gentle swims and sailing (they even have their own sailing club here), flanked at one end by rock pools that are still just as exciting to explore, as they were when I was a little kid.
Little Manly Beach
899A Whangaparaoa Road, Manly, Auckland
Also up Whangaparaoa way is . This quiet and secluded beach has the beauty and sun protection of pohutukawa trees as well as plenty of rocks to go exploring. Because it’s the little sister to Big Manly Beach, it’s not as busy so you can unwind in (relative) peace.
Long Bay Beach
2000 Beach Road, Long Bay, Auckland
Image credit: Long Bay Regional Park | Auckland Council | Website
There's a reason this spot on Auckland's North Shore gets so busy in the summer. The beach itself is stunning (flat, golden, and yes, long) and perfect for dog walks, frisbee-throwing and whatever other outdoor activities you might have in mind; and because is part of a regional park, there's plenty of lush green space to also enjoy.
Where the magic's really at, however, is in the water, which thanks to its status as a marine reserve, offers some pretty great snorkelling. Try the reefs at either end of the beach for a chance to see stingrays, snapper, and other amazing sea creatures.
In the summertime, Long Bay is patrolled by lifeguards.
Murrays Bay Beach
513A Beach Road, Murrays Bay, Auckland
is all sorts of delightful. It has a wharf that is perfect for fishing and diving off (or cannonballing!). My advice? Seize the day and head here bright and early to watch the sunrise—it's a stunning spot.
Takapuna Beach
37 The Strand, Takapuna, Auckland
Image credit: Takapuna Beach / Auckland Unlimited
This is one of the most famous beaches on the North Shore and there’s a very good reason for that. has calm waters that ensure safe but fun swim sessions but there’s also a whole lot surrounding the beach to keep you entertained.
Cafes, ice cream shops and a mammoth playground, it’s an ideal beach for a trip with friends or family as there’s always something to do. The calm waters make this beach a favourite not only for locals but also sailors as Takapuna often has strong and changeable winds.
Cheltenham Beach
46 Cheltenham Road, Devonport, Auckland
Image credit: Cheltenham Beach | Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
If you’re looking for something similar to Takapuna Beach but want something a little less populated, head on over to . This local gem is absolutely adored by the people in Devonport as it is calm, quiet and a great place to walk dogs.
Surrounding Cheltenham are local dairies and fish and chips shops to enhance the Kiwi small-town beach vibe. Our fave is as they do some of the best milkshakes which are so much more enjoyable while tanning on Cheltenham’s soft sand. Be sure to check the tide times though, unless you want to wade almost to the shipping lane for a dip.
Devonport Beach
King Edward Parade, Devonport, Auckland
There’s nothing better than escaping what feels like the city than popping along to . With real relaxed vibes, you can enjoy exploring the township and working on the tan while looking back towards the hustle and bustle of the CBD.
Kendall Bay Beach
Kendall Bay Beach, Auckland
Go exploring through native Kauri forest before ending up at in Northcote. You’ll have to hunt for the right path to take you down to the beach. It’s not big, so choose a quiet time to pay a visit.
The Best Beaches In East Auckland
Bucklands Beach
56R The Parade, Bucklands Beach, Auckland
Image credit: Bucklands Beach / Douglas Bagg
Famous for being the ideal beach for a nice walk to clear your mind, provides a stunning scenic walkway from Half Moon Bay to Farm Cove through Pakuranga.
This beach walk is enjoyed by all Aucklanders and visitors, from families, friends and dog walkers. Cyclists are also welcome to join the walkway which makes it a firm favourite.
Cockle Bay
47R Shelly Beach Parade, Cockle Bay, Auckland
is a tidal beach with a huge patch of sand, making it ideal for people who want to lie around rather than swim. As it is a tidal beach, Cockle Bay is the perfect beach for shellfish hunting during the season from March 1 to September 31—a great activity to get amongst with your mates.
Maraetai Beach
194 Maraetai Drive, Maraetai, Auckland
Located just over from Bucklands Beach this beautiful north-facing spot is the perfect destination, with spectacular views stretching from Auckland City to the Coromandel Ranges. provides safe swimming with grassed verges suitable for picnicking and relaxing. Also, there's good parking and a playground. Score.
The Best Beaches In South Auckland
Karioitahi Beach
685 Karioitahi Road, Lake Puketi, Auckland
Image credit: Kariotahi Beach / Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
This one is for the people who wanna get down and dirty on the beach. This black sand beach is ideal for water lovers as the waters are suitable for activities like paragliding and surfing.
But the rugged sand of makes it a favourite for people who want to test out their four-wheel drive. Again, this is a patrolled beach in the summertime.
Āwhitu
Brook Road, Awhitu, Auckland
A safe, tranquil little beach that’s perfect for a short walk, mountain biking and treading water in a relaxing ocean. The white sand at reflects the sunlight to make the vibe a little brighter and is a favourite beach for friends and families that want a nice picnic and a relaxing day out. Swimming is safe here during the summer months when lifeguards are on duty.
The Best Beaches In West Auckland
Te Henga (Bethells Beach)
257 Bethells Road, Bethells Beach
Image credit: O'Neill Bay / Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
Less than an hour’s drive from the city, is the place to get some activity into your relaxing day trip. This includes hiking, fishing, swimming (lifeguards are on duty during the summer) and building sandcastles.
This one is a little more sheltered and tucked away so it’s the beach for those who want some quiet time for themselves. And if you wanna do more beach-hopping, be sure to check out pictured above, which can only be reached on foot from Te Henga (swimming not recommended).
Muriwai Beach
458 Motutara Road, Muriwai, Auckland
From surfing to lounging under an umbrella or rolling down the dunes, has a lot to offer. Surf lifesavers are on patrol at peak times as the rips can get a bit full-on (in other words, don't go swimming if they're off-duty), and the black sand can be absolutely scorching so be sure to utilise the jandal life hack. On your way back to the big smoke, don’t forget to have a nosy at the gannet colony.
Piha Beach
Marine Parade, Piha, Auckland
Image credit: Piha / Toby Hall
Undoubtedly one of Auckland's best and most famous beaches, this black sand wonderland is always a hot favourite. is so big that no matter how many people are populating it, it’ll never feel overwhelming or crowded.
Piha’s killer swells and massive scale make it not only ideal for surfers but also for people who want to go on long strolls along the black sand. You can even climb partway up Lion Rock, but be warned, you'll need a good head for heights (so... not me). There are lifeguards on duty here from Labour Weekend through to Easter—if you don't see them, don't swim.
And if you're there November through April, it's absolutely worth booking a table at Aryeh and treating yourself to Lucas Parkinson's sensational, hyper-local fare or snagging some fish and chips to enjoy on the beach.
Whatipū Beach
Whatipū Road, Huia, Auckland
Image credit: Whatipū Beach / Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
If you're up for a little adventure, 's the spot. This remote beach has all the West Coast elements you know and love, along with caves, wetlands and coastal dunes to explore.
It's also used by the Department of Conservation as a scientific reserve so if that doesn't tell you it's something spesh, we don't know what does. Despite the crystal clear water it's definitely not advisable to swim at this beach as there are gnarly hidden rips.
Waipiro Bay
2911 South Head Road, South Head, Auckland
A highly remote beach known only amongst locals (until now), Waipiro Bay at is an 80-minute drive from central Auckland in South Head and is the ideal retreat. The beautiful long stretch of clean white sand makes this beach seem like a utopia and is the perfect place to do that contemplating I talked about earlier.
The Best Beaches On Waiheke Island
Oneroa Beach
36 Beach Parade, Oneroa, Waiheke Island, Auckland
Image credit: Big Oneroa and Little Oneroa by Look Up Look Down Photography
is a fave anchorage for boaties and an even more popular spot for beach-goers. The name Oneroa means 'long beach' in Māori and it certainly is, with plenty of golden sand to go around as well as calm waters and ample pohutukawa trees for escaping the sun. A short walk will take you to Little Oneroa at low tide and on a clear day, you can even see the Coromandel Peninsula.
Onetangi Beach
The Strand, Onetangi, Waiheke Island, Auckland
Anyone who's visited Waiheke will be familiar with . It's the island's most famous beach, and for good reason. Not only is it the largest, with almost 2km of glorious golden sand to enjoy, but it's a safe swimming spot and also perfect for surfing. Plus, a decent bite to eat is never far away with a number of great restaurants and cafes running parallel to the beach (we're looking at you , and up the hill to ).
Palm Beach
53 Palm Road, Palm Beach, Auckland
is another one of Waiheke's most beautiful beaches, where blue waters meet white sand and tropical vibes abound. Taking its name from the phoenix palms planted at one end, this spot is quieter than some of its other, more famous siblings.
The Best Beaches On Aotea Great Barrier Island
Oruawharo (Medlands) Beach
117 Sandhills Road, Aotea Great Barrier Island, Auckland
Image credit: Oruawharo (Medlands) Beach / Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
is a legit island escape. With dunes and long white sands meeting the rugged ocean, it's a popular spot with surfers but swimming should be reserved for either end of the beach due to powerful swells and the fact that it's unpatrolled. The mermaid pools are an added bonus.
Kaitoke Beach
32 Oceanview Road, Aotea Great Barrier Island, Auckland
White sands and deep blue waters are not the only things this gorgeous spot on the East coast of the island has going for it— is also home to some rather sweet rock pools, perfect for taking a dip, or sitting back and enjoying said scenery. The fishing here is also tops and at low tide, you can walk to nearby Pitokuku Island.
Whangapoua Bay
767 Mabey Road, Aotea Great Barrier Island, Auckland
is a fave surfing spot but this glorious white-sand beach has more to offer than just that. As part of a conservation site for native birds, you'll want to have your camera ready for any avian action, while dolphins have also been known to frequent the bay. And for some of the best views on Great Barrier Island, check out the Whangapoua to Harataonga coastal walkway.
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Main image credit: Piha Tasman Track / Fiona Clyde