The best family-friendly swimming beaches in Auckland

With sheltered bays and sandy shorelines, Auckland is bordered by many beaches that are perfect for families eager to take a dip in the water and spend a day relaxing in the shade of a pōhutukawa tree.

1. Mission Bay

Mission Bay is an iconic Auckland destination offering calm waters ideal for young swimmers. With views of Rangitoto Island that could belong on a postcard, this beautiful beach has plenty of grassy space for picnics and shaded spots under mature trees for a snooze. 

Grab a coffee or a gelato from one of the cafes or eateries along the promenade, just across the road. And, when it’s time to get out of the sun, head to Sea Life Kelly Tarlton’s, just a short drive away.

This marine life experience brings ocean creatures up close with an underwater journey along a walk-through aquarium. Marvel at stingrays, sharks and jellyfish from a safe distance, visit the world’s largest sub-Antarctic penguin colony and learn more about the sea’s many other marine inhabitants.

2. Long Bay

Long Bay has space, views, and kid-safe waves all in one package. Its sandy, kilometre-long stretch is perfect for sandcastle-building and sunbathing, and the adjoining Long Bay Regional Park has barbecue spots, trails, and pockets of trees for shade. It’s particularly ideal if you’re gathering a group, with designated picnic sites and covered areas available to book in advance.

As this is a regional park, remember to take all rubbish and recycling home with you when you leave. And if you haven’t packed a picnic, Long Bay Village is a 5-minute drive away, with family-friendly dining options.

With so much beach space, it’s easy to find a spot for your beach blanket where you can watch the kids safely paddle in the calm shallows. Over busier summer months (December through to February), Long Bay is lifeguarded so it’s recommended you swim between the flags; the Safeswim website is kept updated with patrol dates and times. 

3. Oneroa Beach

Take a Fullers360 ferry from the Auckland ferry terminal to Waiheke Island. While there are numerous safe swimming spots on the island, Oneroa Beach is an accessible and picturesque spot to while away a few hours. A short bus ride from Waiheke’s ferry terminal, and you’ll find yourself in Oneroa village, a beach town full of charm, with everything from boutique shops to art galleries. Sparkling Oneroa Beach is just down the hill from its namesake township. 

With gentle waves and soft sand, Oneroa Beach is ideal for swimmers of all ages. At low tide, you can walk around the rocks to reach ‘Little O’ (Little Oneroa Beach) or use the track up over the hill, which takes you between the two beaches. 

When bellies start to rumble, head to The Heke, a family-friendly restaurant, brewery, and distillery. Set amid beautiful gardens, The Heke offers delicious meals and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families to dine and enjoy local flavours.

The island has plenty of accommodation options so you can spend a few days exploring, from boutique stays and hotels to more budget-friendly options like Waiheke Backpackers Hostel, which has family rooms available.

4. Cheltenham Beach

Cheltenham Beach in Devonport is a quieter option for families looking to avoid crowded spots. Its calm, flat waters are ideal for young swimmers, with holiday-album-worthy views of Rangitoto. The nearby village of Devonport has quaint cafes, shops, and art galleries to explore, as well as the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum. Kids will love delving into New Zealand’s naval history through various collections and interactive exhibits. 

Just a short walk from Cheltenham beach is Maungauika North Head historic reserve. This historic site makes for a fun mini-adventure, with tunnels, military fortifications, and panoramic views of the harbour and city, well-worth the climb.

As Devonport has its own ferry terminal, it's easy to hop aboard a Fullers360 ferry to travel from here back into the city centre.

5. Ōrewa Beach

Ōrewa Beach has it all – a wide stretch of sand, beautiful water and a buzzing beach town. Lined with trees and with plenty of grassy picnic space, this 3-kilometre beach is popular but there is room for everyone.

Young ones can paddle safely in the shallows, while more confident water-lovers can enjoy boogie boarding on the beach's gentle waves. At the southern end of Ōrewa, the estuary also offers a calm spot for little waders to get their feet wet at the right tide. 

With a resident Surf Life Saving Club, Ōrewa Beach has lifeguards stationed over the busier summer months; if it’s your preference to swim when patrols are on duty, check Safeswim before heading to the beach.

The nearby playgrounds, skate park, cafes, and restaurants make it easy to turn a beach day into a full-day of activities. And for those who want to extend their stay, Ōrewa Beach Top 10 Holiday Park is located right on the beach.

This holiday park offers various options just a few steps from the sand, including glamping tents, cabins and powered sites for campers.

6. Anchor Bay at Tāwharanui Regional Park

Anchor Bay at Tāwharanui Regional Park is the ultimate beach for families who love nature. There are usually a few waves which will keep confident swimmers entertained for hours in the water, and with lots of surrounding greenery, this beach feels like a real getaway.

The beach is surrounded by a wildlife sanctuary, so keep your eyes peeled for native birds. It’s the perfect spot to picnic, splash, and explore – just don’t forget your camera to snap those gorgeous views. 

If one day here just isn’t enough, spend a night under the stars at the Tāwharanui campground, located within the Tāwharanui Open Sanctuary. You may even spot an elusive kiwi at night!

7. Eastern Beach

Eastern Beach in East Auckland offers golden sands and gentle waters, perfect for paddlers of all ages. Backed by picnic tables and BBQ spots, it’s easy to set up camp for the day. The beach’s calm waves make it a great spot for kids to swim safely, and there are plenty of cafes nearby for family snack breaks.

Follow the paths in the reserve at the south end of the beach to get to Macleans Park. This large park has playgrounds and open spaces, ideal for kids to burn off any leftover energy after a beach day.

8. Grahams Beach

At the tip of 50km long Āwhitu Peninsula, remote Grahams Beach is one of Auckland’s best-kept secrets. With gentle waves and a sandy shore, this sheltered beach offers a safe and welcoming spot for a dip after the scenic drive up the peninsula. Pack a picnic and settle under the trees for lunch, with views across the Manukau Harbour back to the city.

Beyond the beach, you’re minutes from Castaways Resort, offering ocean-front accommodation at stunning Karioitahi Beach. Stay overnight and experience incredible west coast sunsets overlooking the rugged coastline of the Tasman Sea. For more exceptional views, don’t miss the historic Manukau Heads Lighthouse.

It’s one of the few lighthouses in New Zealand where you can go inside and up to the balcony. And keep some time aside to visit Glenbrook Vintage Railway, offering a nostalgic 15km (1-hour) trip back in time through Franklin countryside aboard a restored steam train.

Safety first

While these beaches are known for their calm waters and family-friendly settings, it’s always wise to check the latest safety conditions before heading out.

Auckland Council’s Safe Swim website provides up-to-date information on water quality, tide levels, and potential hazards, ensuring a safe, enjoyable and stress-free experience for your family beach trip.