The best beaches in Auckland

We’ve put in the hard yards - countless hours of rigorous research - to bring you the ultimate list of Auckland’s best beaches. Tough job, right? But hey, someone’s got to do it. Here's our guide to the best beaches in Auckland. 

North Auckland 

Takapuna Beach 

With heaps of cafés and restaurants nearby to this beautiful beach, it's a great choice for families. 

With a beach like this, it’s no wonder the seaside suburb of Takapuna on the North Shore is so popular. Picture golden sands, a prime view of a volcanic island, and a buzzy atmosphere, just a short hop from Auckland’s city centre.  

Chic boutiques, eateries, and, of course, an ice cream spot or two line the beachfront promenade. Join the early birds at Takapuna Beach Cafe, or enjoy cocktails at Tok Tok Takapuna until late at night.

Ōmaha Beach 

The outdoor enthusiasts will love Ōmaha’s sprawling shoreline. 

'Ōmaha' means ‘place of plenty’ in te reo Māori. True to its name, the beach's sprawling white sands and crystal-clear waters seem endless. In fact, the immediate feeling here is a sense of space. Look out over the Hauraki Gulf and you'll feel it, too. 

Into water sports? Ōmaha Beach has great boat launching spots and a safe harbour so you can fish, dive, and surf as much as you like! Lifeguards keep a close eye on things during the summer, so relax and enjoy the water with peace of mind.  

And if the saltwater whets your appetite, there are plenty of things to do nearby. Ōmaha Beach sits on the Matakana Coast, renowned for its white sand beaches, thriving wineries, and quaint farmers' markets.

Central Auckland 

Mission Bay Beach

If you're in the city, pop by Mission Bay Beach. 

Could Mission Bay Beach be the quintessential Auckland beach experience? Just a short drive from downtown, this beach boasts golden sands, sparkling waters, and a great view of Rangitoto Island. If you're visiting, stay at the SO/ Auckland to marvel at the seascape from 15 stories up, or simply pop by their rooftop bar.

Feeling adventurous? Book a tour with Auckland Sea Kayaks and paddle out to explore Rangitoto from neighbouring St Heliers. You'll get a unique perspective of the Auckland skyline and a closer look at the iconic island (and its lava caves!).

After a kayak, a dip or both, mosey along the promenade. You’ll find heaps of cool cafés, fine dining restaurants and rooftop bars. Early risers will love Mission Bay Cafe for a caffeine fix, while Azabu Mission Bay is perfect for a lunch or dinner.

If you’re into marine life, a visit to nearby SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's is a must. This aquarium showcases New Zealand's underwater wonders, from penguins to sharks.  

West Auckland 

Piha Beach

Piha Beach's wild waves make it a firm favourite with surfers. 

Looking for that ‘wow’ factor? Piha Beach on Auckland's west coast is the place to be. Piha is famous for its black sand, strong waves, and Lion Rock, making it popular with surfers and nature enthusiasts.

But it's not just the waves that draw visitors here. The surrounding Waitākere Ranges is full of walking tracks winding between native bush and waterfalls.

Bethells Beach 

Bethells Beach is a quieter spot than neighbouring Piha but still has that epic black sand. 

Bethells Beach, also known as Te Henga, is a quieter alternative to the more popular Piha. The rugged beauty of this west coast beach is breathtaking, with vast expanses of black sand and towering cliffs.

Waiheke Island 

Onetangi Beach 

Onetangi Beach stretches over two kilometres. 

Onetangi Beach is the longest on Waiheke Island, stretching over two kilometres. The perfect spot for a lazy day in the sun or a leisurely swim followed by a mooch in the waterfront stores.

Thirsty? Waiheke Wine Tours in Onetangi visit the best vineyards on the island. You can taste Waiheke's award-winning wines along the way.

For those keen on getting closer to nature, Terra and Tide offers guided walks and eco-tours that reveal the island’s hidden gems. From coastal trails to lush native forests, you'll gain local knowledge from your experienced tour guide.

Palm Beach 

Palm Beach's soft sand and safe swimming make it ideal for families.

Pop over to Palm Beach where you can sink your toes into warm, golden sand or take a dip in the calm waters. This spot is a firm favourite with families, thanks to its safe swimming, a fantastic playground, and picnic tables with gas grills. After a day in the sun, grab a treat from the Palm Beach Store.

Keen to check out a vineyard and enjoy a beach? Take the Explore Group ferry from Auckland to Man O’ War Vineyard, New Zealand’s only vineyard by the beach. 

Aotea Great Barrier Island 

Medlands Beach  

Medlands Beach on Aotea Great Barrier Island is a surfer's dream. 

Vast stretches of white sand and crystal-clear waters guarantee Medlands Beach a spot on the list of the best beaches in Auckland.  

A go-to spot for surfers, thanks to the powerful swells, it's also perfect for those who just want to bask in the sun. Watch the waves - people often spot dolphins and pods of orcas offshore! 

If you’re keen to take a dip, it’s best to stick to the mermaid pools because of the strong currents and lack of patrols. We know, it’s a hard life.  

Kaitoke Beach

Sprawling white sand meets calm clear water on Kaitoke Beach. 

On the east coast of Aotea Great Barrier Island, you’ll find Kaitoke Beach. With its long, sweeping bay of pristine white sand, it’s the kind of place where you can truly escape.  

This beautiful beach’s remoteness adds to its charm - on a sunny day, you might just have the whole stretch to yourself. Wade into calm, clear waters, explore heart-shaped rock pools, or spot resident wildlife nesting in the extensive dunes. At low tide, you can even mosey over to nearby Pitokuku Island. 

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