With 1,800km of coastline and summer in full swing, there’s no better time to pack the car, grab the sunscreen and head to the nearest bit of coastline with the whānau.
To help you make the most of the sunshine, we’ve rounded up seven family friendly beaches you can enjoy no matter the tide. Prepare the whānau for some refreshing family fun.
For a splash of on the North Shore, head to:
1.Takapuna Beach
Dive into a perfect day at Takapuna Beach with sparkling water, soft sand and incredible views of Rangitoto.
With its iconic pōhutukawa trees providing natural shade, beautiful views of Rangitoto and a world-class playground nearby, Takapuna Beach is a family staple. Here you’re guaranteed a good swim no matter the tide level and with lifeguards on duty during summer afternoons (at the northern end of the beach), you can relax while the kids safely splash around.
2.Cheltenham Beach
Cheltenham Beach offers a timeless seaside charm. Ideal for an easy dip, a gentle wander, or simply watching the tide roll in.
If you're looking for a calmer, summer vibe, and some low tide exploration, Cheltenham is a dream. At high tide, the water here is clear and safe, perfect for little ones finding their confidence. It’s the ideal spot to set up a sun shelter and stay for a long, lazy afternoon picnic. At low tide, take the littles ones shell collecting along the shore, and see if you can spot some tiny crabs burrowing into the sand.
3.Narrow Neck Beach
Enjoy the open horizon at Narrow Neck Beach, where gentle waves and a roomy shoreline make unwinding easy.
This Devonport beach is a "one-stop shop" for families. Perfect for all tide swimming, it also features excellent public barbecues and a great playground nearby. It’s a fantastic spot to host a summer birthday party or your next family get-together.
Further north, check out:
4.Martins Bay
Make yourself at home at Martins Bay Holiday Park - the perfect base for beach days, family adventures and easy coastal downtime.
This picturesque beach is just over one hour north of central Auckland on the Mahurangi Peninsula. Escape to this hidden coastal haven overlooking the Hauraki Gulf on a safe swimming beach. Recreation here is endless thanks to the playground, trampoline, pedal karts and kayak/SUP’s available at Martins Bay Holiday Park — in summer don’t miss out on a swim to the super popular pontoon!
5.Orewa Beach
Ōrewa Holiday Park offers classic Kiwi beach‑holiday charm which is spacious, sunny and just steps from the sand.
With 3km of golden sand, there is room for everyone to spread out. Orewa is the capital of summer activity—whether your kids want to learn to surf, build giant sandcastles, or just jump in the waves, the tide won't hold them back. There’s also Orewa Beach Holiday Park for those interested in an overnight adventure.
6.Omaha Beach
Surfs up at Omaha Beach for clean surfing, soft sand and a peaceful stretch of coastline that always feels like a breath of fresh air.
Famous for its stunning white sand, Ōmaha is the place to go for those "picture-perfect" summer memories. It’s great for boogie boarding, but the waves can be strong, so be sure to keep the family between the flags!
For an adventure out in East Auckland:
7.Ōmana Beach
Let the kids run wild at the Ōmana Beach playground, a sunny coastal spot where playtime meets beach time.
Nestled on Auckland’s stunning Pōhutukawa Coast, Ōmana Beach is a hidden gem of shimmering white and gold sands. Enjoy an all-tide dip in the moana (located by the boat ramp side of the beach) before exploring the lush Ōmana Regional Park nearby or taking a stroll and enjoying the quiet charm of Maraetai. This spot is more than just a beach; it’s a full day of family entertainment.
No matter the choice, be sure you're summer-ready:
- Know how to stay safe in the water at all times.
- Check Safeswim: Always check Safeswim before you leave to ensure the water quality is perfect for your dip.
- Slip, Slop, Slap, and Wrap: Apply and reapply as necessary.
- Swim Between the Flags: At patrolled beaches stay where the lifeguards can see you.