New Zealand has some of the world’s most stunning and picturesque beaches. So whether you’re looking for a secluded paradise or a bustling beach scene, there’s something for everyone.
Here are the best beaches in New Zealand:
- Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula – Known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand, this beach is popular for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.
- Piha Beach, Auckland – This black sand beach is a surfer’s paradise, with big waves and rugged scenery.
- Abel Tasman National Park – A coastal wonderland, boasts several beaches with golden sand, turquoise water, and lush greenery.
- Ninety Mile Beach, Northland – As the name suggests, this beach is almost 90 miles long and is perfect for long walks and endless sunsets.
- Hot Water Beach, Coromandel – This beach is particularly unique due to the natural hot springs that run underneath the beach.
Pro tip: Bring a shovel to dig your hot pool in the sand!
North Island Beaches
The North Island of New Zealand has some of the most picturesque and stunning beaches. From golden sand beaches and secluded coves to rugged coastlines, the North Island offers a variety of stunning beaches for visitors to enjoy. Explore some of the best beaches located on the North Island and see why this is one of the most beloved spots in New Zealand.
Piha Beach
Piha Beach is a stunning North Island beach and one of the best beaches to visit in New Zealand. Located on the rugged west coast of the Auckland region, Piha Beach is famous for its black iron sands, towering cliffs, and fierce surf.
This beach is a popular destination for surfers, hikers, and photographers, with many scenic trails and lookout points to explore.
While the surf can be dangerous, there are patrolled swimming areas on the northern and southern ends of the beach.
Visitors to Piha Beach can also enjoy various amenities, including public restrooms, showers, and a cafe.
Piha Beach is a must-visit destination if you are looking for a North Island beach that combines scenic beauty and thrilling adventure.
Mount Maunganui Beach
Mount Maunganui Beach is known for its crystal clear water, golden sand, and vibrant atmosphere, making it one of the most popular and iconic beaches in New Zealand’s North Island. Visitors to Mount Maunganui Beach can enjoy various activities, including surfing, swimming, beach sports, and hiking up the imposing volcanic cone for breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.
In addition to its natural beauty, Mount Maunganui Beach is surrounded by a bustling beach town packed with trendy cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops, making it an ideal spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Other must-visit beaches in New Zealand’s North Island include Piha Beach, Raglan Beach, and Cathedral Cove. Each beach features unique natural beauty, thrilling surf breaks, and distinctive local culture, making them well worth a visit for beachgoers and adventurers alike.
Ninety Mile Beach
Ninety Mile Beach, located on the west coast of Northland, is one of the best beaches in New Zealand and a must-visit for tourists and locals alike. Despite its name, the beach is only 88 km long, but it is still an impressive stretch of golden sand and turquoise waters.
Here are some reasons why Ninety Mile Beach is worth visiting:
- Surfing: The beach is known for its impressive waves, making it a popular destination for surfers.
- Sand Dunes: The beach is surrounded by massive dunes, which visitors can climb for a stunning coastline view.
- Sunsets: The west-facing beach is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the ocean.
- Off-road Driving: Visitors can also purchase a permit to drive on the beach, making it a unique experience for adventure seekers.
Pro tip: Visitors should plan to visit the beach during low tide to take advantage of the expansive sand and avoid getting stuck in the sand while driving.
South Island Beaches
Regarding beaches in New Zealand, the South Island is one of the best of the two islands. The South Island has many beaches, each offering something unique and beautiful. From the breathtaking turquoise waters of Abel Tasman National Park to the untouched black sand beaches of the West Coast, these South Island beaches are sure to please. Let’s take a closer look at the top beaches on the South Island.
Abel Tasman National Park Beaches
Abel Tasman National Park is a haven for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, boasting some of the most picturesque and secluded beaches in South Island, New Zealand. Here are some of the best beaches to explore in the area:
- Anchorage Beach: A golden sand beach with clear turquoise water at the end of a scenic walking track.
- Bark Bay Beach: This beach is long and sandy and provides access to several kayaking routes.
- Medlands Beach: This beach is accessible by road and is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
- Observation Beach: This beach is a scenic getaway, best known for its calm waters, providing an ideal location for kayaking or paddleboarding.
With these amazing beaches located in the Abel Tasman National Park, there’s no doubt that the area is a must-visit for anyone exploring the South Island of New Zealand.
Awaroa Beach
Awaroa Beach is a must-visit destination for beach enthusiasts and nature lovers exploring the best beaches of New Zealand’s South Island.
Located at the northern end of the Abel Tasman National Park, this golden sand beach stretches for 1.7 km and offers crystal-clear waters for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. A unique feature of Awaroa Beach is the Awaroa Inlet, which is only accessible during low tide and allows visitors to explore the rich marine life and bird species that inhabit the area. Surrounded by lush native bush and stunning rock formations, Awaroa Beach is a picture-perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure in equal measure.
Totaranui Beach
Totaranui Beach is located in Abel Tasman National Park on the northern coast of the South Island of New Zealand. It is renowned for its golden sand, pristine waters, and stunning scenery, making it one of the best beaches in the country.
The beach stretches over a kilometer and offers plenty of space and privacy. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including hiking, kayaking, and camping. One of the highlights of Totaranui Beach is the nearby Abel Tasman Coast Track, a world-famous hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the coastline and leads to secluded coves and beaches.
With its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Totaranui Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand.
Marlborough Sounds Beaches
Marlborough Sounds beaches are some of the most idyllic and picturesque beaches you will find in New Zealand’s South Island. Here are some of the best beaches that Marlborough Sounds has to offer:
- Davies Bay: This secluded and unspoiled beach is surrounded by native bush and rocky cliffs, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a swim.
- Mistletoe Bay: This well-equipped beach has everything you need for a day out, including a camping site, playground, and boat launching ramp.
- Torea Bay: This sheltered bay is perfect for water sports, including kayaking and windsurfing, and is home to a sunny and sandy beach.
- Robin Hood Bay: This beach is accessible by boat or a 4-hour walk but is worth the effort. Robin Hood Bay is ideal for swimming and snorkeling with crystal clear waters and a stunning waterfall nearby.
With their well-maintained facilities, beautiful landscapes, and crystal clear waters, these pristine and unspoiled beaches are a must-visit for anyone traveling to the South Island of New Zealand.
Otago Peninsula Beaches
Otago Peninsula in New Zealand’s South Island is home to some of the country’s most beautiful and pristine beaches, making it a top destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.
Here are the top-rated Otago Peninsula beaches that are not-to-be-missed:
- Allans Beach: With its white sand and clear waters, Allans Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and wildlife watching. You might even catch a glimpse of sea lions basking on the sand.
- Sandfly Bay: Located on the southern coast of the Otago Peninsula, Sandfly Bay is known for its dramatic dunes and stunning views. This secluded beach is perfect for nature walks, surfing, bird-watching, and dolphin/sea-lion sightings.
- Long Beach: As the name suggests, Long Beach is a vast and unspoiled stretch of golden sand, perfect for long walks, family picnics, and relaxing amidst nature. This beach is also ideal for surfing and bodyboarding for the adventurous ones.
- Victory Beach: Victory Beach is a peaceful and secluded spot that offers a stunning view of the ocean and nearby cliffs. This beach is ideal for those who want to unwind and disconnect from the world.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and appropriate clothing to get the most out of your beach trip.
Sandfly Bay
Sandfly Bay is one of the best beaches in New Zealand, located on the South Island’s Otago Peninsula. It is known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and secluded location.
The beach’s name comes from the sandflies that inhabit the area, so make sure to bring insect repellent when visiting.
Some of the key features of Sandfly Bay include:
- A long, wide beach with golden sand and dunes.
- Spectacular views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs.
- Wildlife viewing opportunities, including sea lions, penguins, and fur seals.
To reach Sandfly Bay, visitors must navigate a steep and narrow track down to the beach, which takes about 20-30 minutes to walk. It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, especially on hot days.
Pro tip: Plan your trip to Sandfly Bay during low tide, as this will give you more beach to walk and explore.
Tunnel Beach
Tunnel Beach is one of the most stunning beaches located on the South Island of New Zealand. This beach is known for its breathtaking rock formations, crystal-clear water, and secluded location.
Here are some reasons why you should visit Tunnel Beach:
- A thrilling experience – Visitors must climb down a narrow, steep path that passes through a tunnel carved into the rock wall to reach the beach. This exhilarating walk offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and the ocean.
- Picturesque views – Once you reach the beach, you will be greeted by spectacular rock formations, including an impressive sea arch and towering cliffs.
- Peaceful solitude – Tunnel Beach is far from the hustle and bustle of city life and is a perfect spot for relaxation and solitude.
Pro tip: The walk to Tunnel Beach is approximately 20 minutes one way, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry water with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best beaches to visit in New Zealand?
A: Some of the best beaches to visit in New Zealand include Piha Beach, Cathedral Cove, Mount Maunganui Beach, and Ninety Mile Beach.
Q: Are New Zealand beaches safe for swimming?
A: Yes, New Zealand beaches are generally safe for swimming, but it is essential to always check for current conditions, riptides, or other warnings before entering the water.
Q: Can I find secluded beaches in New Zealand?
A: New Zealand has many secluded beaches, especially on the more remote islands or less populated areas. Examples include Wharariki Beach, Marlborough Sounds Beaches, and Tawhitokino Beach.
Q: What activities can I do on New Zealand beaches?
A: Popular activities on New Zealand beaches include swimming, surfing, sunbathing, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching (such as penguins, seals, and dolphins).
Q: Are dogs allowed on New Zealand beaches?
A: It depends on the specific beach and local regulations. For example, some beaches allow dogs on leashes, while others have specific areas or times when dogs are allowed. Therefore, it is essential always to check beforehand.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit New Zealand beaches?
A: The best time to visit New Zealand beaches depends on your preference and location. Generally, the summer months from December to February are the warmest and most popular, but some beaches may also be crowded. Spring and autumn shoulder seasons can also offer nice weather and fewer crowds.