Auckland stretches across a geographically diverse area uniquely positioned between three harbours, meaning our coastal areas are peppered with beautiful beaches. Here are six stunning shorelines that are sure to keep you cool, whether you're swimming in the sea or kicking back in the shade.
Explore rock pools at Anchor Bay, Tāwharanui Regional Park
Anchor Bay is a crisp white arc of sand studded with rock formations, creating sparkling pools where sea creatures lurk. The pristine water here also makes for excellent snorkelling. From the bay, you can explore Tāwaharanui’s various trails and spot native birds like kākā, pāteke and even takahē.
To make the most of your visit, stay at the Tāwharanui campground. If you venture out on the park’s walking trails in the evening, you might even spot a kiwi!
Enjoy a beach getaway in Ōrewa
Long and lively Ōrewa Beach is a top choice for families. There’s plenty of space to set up chilly bins, towels and beach umbrellas, and the gentle waves are great for boogie boarding. You can also enjoy views as you amble along the Te Ara Tahuna / Ōrewa Estuary Path.
Starting at the southern end of the beach, the 7.6km trail can be walked or cycled by all ages – and it also loops past the skate park, which can be a fun stop for kids. Ōrewa Holiday Park, located mere steps from the sand, offers camping and cabin accommodation for an extended trip.
Admire the stunning views while you swim at Takapuna Beach
This popular Auckland beach deserves its iconic status for its 2.5km sandy pōhutukawa-fringed shoreline, gentle surf and breathtaking views of Rangitoto.
Plus it promises a good swim no matter the tide level. The northern end of the beach is patrolled by lifeguards most afternoons during the summer months (check the Safeswim website), so remember to swim between the flags and stay safe in the water.
The North Shore is spoilt for choice when it comes to all-round good high-tide beaches, so why not check out some other incredible spots while you're in the area. Thorne Bay, Milford, Narrowneck and Cheltenham are all a short drive away.
Kids playing on the sand and in the water in front of the Surf Lifesaving tower at Takapuna Beach
Picnic and swim at Coyle Park, Point Chevalier
Coyle Park features spacious grassy areas, gnarled trees gripping impressive cliff faces, and expansive harbour views. This family-friendly park also has a playground with a flying fox and Spacenet.
Short paths from Coyle Park lead down to Point Chevalier Beach, where calm, shallow waters lap the golden sand. Dramatic tides here mean the beach is best for swimming at mid to high tide.
Enjoy a shady spot at Cornwallis, Titirangi
Bordering the Waitākere Ranges, Cornwallis is a popular spot for swimming with beautiful trees to seek shade under. The beach has a boat ramp, picnic tables and toilets and plenty of space for sports and activities. And if you have a self-contained-certified (SCC) campervan or motorhome, you can book a spot for the night.
While there, visit the 200m-long restored wharf. From Cornwallis Road, a five-minute walk leads to the graves of three sailors who drowned when HMS Orpheus foundered on the harbour bar in 1863.
A part of the wider Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, Cornwallis Beach has crystal clear water and a serene tranquility to it.
Beach and lagoon hop at Tāpapakanga Regional Park
This historic coastal farm park overlooks the Firth of Thames and is about an hour’s drive from central Auckland. Swimmers here are treated to not one but two divine options for dips. Make a splash in the gentle surf at the pōhutukawa-edged beach, then wash the salt water off in the refreshing lagoon that runs into the sea.
Go for a day trip or book a tent site in the Beachfront Campground. Another option is to head up the hill to pitch your tent or park your campervan at the Seaview Campground – the views from the nearby lookout are spectacular.
Visit aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/holidayplaces for accommodation options across the region.
An attractive coastal farm park, Tāpapakanga has a rich Māori and European history and offers an accessible, pōhutukawa edged beach on the western shores of the Firth of Thames.
Check before you swim
Before you take the plunge this summer, check out the Safeswim website for up-to-date information on water quality, wind, waves and tides as well as jellyfish swarms and other hazards. Safeswim is a fantastic tool to help keep you and your whānau safe.
