You are reminded that New Zealand is an island nation with sandy shores and sparkling sea. Although Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, it also has some of the most beautiful beaches. These stretches of protected bays take you away from the bustle of the city streets and place you in picturesque riverside settings. Here are some of Auckland’s top beaches, which range from seaside resorts to beaches with black sand.
1. Cheltenham Beach
Long stretches of golden sand at Cheltenham Beach are great for strolling, swimming, and picnics. You may wander along the seaside and take in the Victorian architecture in this location, which is adjacent to the village of Devonport. The North Head Historical Reserve, where you may take in magnificent views of Auckland City, Waitemata Harbour, and the Hauraki Gulf, can be reached by ascending the top walk.
Visit the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum while you’re there to discover more about the military history of New Zealand, then unwind on the seashore, where the calm, clear waters beckon you to go swimming or kayaking.
2. Cornwallis Beach
Cornwallis Beach in the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park has 1.3 kilometers of golden sand. One of the most well-liked beaches in West Auckland, it offers a variety of family-friendly activities. Take a leisurely stroll along the old wharf and take in the sights of Manukau Harbour.
In order to make the most of your day, go swimming, kayaking, or boating (there is a boat ramp nearby!) in crystal-clear waters. There are various walking trails you can enjoy while you’re here, including the Spragg Monument walk, ideal for history buffs, and the Kakamatua Beach walk, where dogs are free to roam.
3. Piha Beach
Due to its black sands and surf prospects, Piha Beach, which is located on the rocky coast of West Auckland, is one of the most well-known in the area. There are various lush woodland hikes nearby, as well as the opportunity to see two waterfalls: the Kitekite falls and the Karekare falls, so you don’t have to love the water to appreciate this place. Both of these falls take you through the Waitakere Mountains’ forested surroundings and provide a wealth of sights to see along the route.
When you get there, you can have a relaxing swim in the swimming hole’s chilly waters while admiring the cascading falls. If you prefer trekking, be sure to ascend Lion Rock, which provides breathtaking 360-degree views of Piha Beach and the neighborhood.
4. Point Chevalier
One of the nicest beaches in the west, Point Chevalier offers both plenty of shade and safe swimming. This inner city getaway has a lovely sandy beach, and the adjacent park has various kid-friendly activities, such as a flying fox, as well as an off-leash area that is ideal for dogs to exercise while you take in the scenery.
5. Karekare Beach
Learn about the beauty of Karekare Beach, where the black sand contrasts sharply with the clear waters. The region, which is situated in a narrow valley, is bordered by high peaks, a creek, and a lagoon that divides the beach in half.
Since it was featured in The Piano in 1993, this beach is well-known for both surfing and lounging. Here, you may take some gorgeous pictures of the beach and the close-by Karekare Falls, which are accessible by foot in only 15 minutes.
6. Karaka Bay Beach
East of Auckland is where Karaka Bay, sometimes referred to as Waiarohe or “the bay of shimmering waters,” is situated. The bay’s appeal lies in its secrecy, which maintains it more tranquil than many other beaches in one of the major cities in New Zealand.
This bay is not accessible by vehicle; instead, you must park at the end of Peacock Street and walk down the inclining road. When you get to the water’s edge, you’ll be on a horse-shaped length of sand with a beautiful view of Browns Island and Rangitoto.
7. St Heliers Beach
One of Auckland’s premier waterfront areas, St Heliers Bay, is a favorite spot for swimming and yachting. Families can unwind here while taking in the views of Waitemata Harbor and Rangitoto Island. There are numerous amenities close by, including a playground, restrooms, locker rooms, picnic tables, drinking fountains, and an electric grill.
8. Kendall Bay Beach
A superb family beach, Kendall Bay offers a secure area for swimming during high tide and a wide variety of walks during low tide. Due to its long history of outstanding water quality, this beach is a pleasant location for swimming and has earned the designation of “green.”
To get to the beach, follow the 30-minute trail along the Kauri Point Centennial Path. Despite some high sections, the vistas provide breathtaking views of Waitemata Harbour. The beach offers excellent swimming for children as well as a leash-free area where your four-legged pals can run about.
9. Mission Bay
Mission Bay is a picturesque area of Auckland that provides both locals and visitors with a coastal paradise. The area has golden dunes and a bustling beachside promenade lined with a variety of restaurants. Visit some of the nearby landmarks and attractions, such as Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium, which features more than 30 live animal exhibits and fantastic underwater viewing tunnels.
Hire a bike or rollerblades at Fergs Kayak to enjoy the promenade on wheels, or rent a paddleboard or kayak from Mission Bay Watersports to explore the ocean. Mission Bay is a whole location that will amaze and amuse the family for the duration of the vacation, not simply a beach.
10. Anawhata Beach
Anawhata Beach is significantly calmer than other beaches in Waitakere since it is situated in the Waitakere Ranges and can only be reached on foot. Pedestrians have 24-hour access to this lovely stretch of beach, where they can take in breathtaking views of the West Coast, Piha, and Whatipu.
Although there are surf patrol guards, you can swim, so use caution when getting in the water. The same is true for fishing; although there are some lovely locations near the coast, the climate can change quickly. Anawhata also offers the chance to observe agricultural animals and birds. Fantail, dazzling cuckoo, morepork, tūī, fernbird, kereru, and grey warbler are a few of the species you might see.
