New Zealand’s North Island is a paradise for beach lovers, offering everything from stunning white sands and calm swimming spots to rugged black sand coastlines with great surfing spots. Whether planning a road trip or relaxing getaway the variety of coastal landscapes and beaches in the North Island provides something for everyone.
Explore the best North Island beaches from the North, East and West coasts to help you plan the perfect seaside visit. From secluded bays in Northland to surfing beaches on the west coast, find the very best NZ has to offer.
North Coast North Island Beaches
The northern region of the North Island is home to some of the most untouched and beautiful beaches in the country. With a warm climate and crystal-clear waters, this part of New Zealand is perfect for those seeking tropical and relaxing beach getaways. The beaches here often have soft and golden sand, calm waters, native trees, and pohutukawa, which surround the coast. Many of these locations are also rich in marine life, making them excellent for snorkelling, kayaking, and fishing. Unlike the bustling beaches near major cities, the northern beaches offer a more tranquil experience, perfect for those wanting to unwind.
Matapouri Bay, Tutukaka Coast
Matapouri Bay is a true gem of the Tutukaka Coast, offering soft sand and beautiful waters. This beach is famous not just for its stunning coastline but also for the nearby Mermaid Pools, natural rock pools that fill with seawater and provide a unique swimming experience. The bay itself is fantastic for swimming and sunbathing, with gentle waves making it safe for all ages.
Matapouri Bay is located on the Tutukaka Coast, approximately 35km northeast of Whangārei. To get there, take State Highway 1 north out of Whangārei, then turn right onto Puna Rere Drive then another right onto Ngunguru Road at Tikipunga. Follow this winding coastal road for around 25km, passing through Ngunguru and continuing onto Matapouri Road. After another 10km, you’ll arrive at Matapouri Bay, where parking is available near the beachfront. From there, it’s a short walk to the beach.
Maitai Bay, Northland
Maitai Bay, located on the Karikari Peninsula, relatively far north, is a stunning beach with calm, clear waters and golden sand. Its secluded nature makes it one of Northland’s hidden treasures, offering a peaceful spot away from crowded tourist hotspots. The bay is divided into two sections, Waikato Bay and Maitai Bay, both of which are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding. The gentle waters make it a fantastic spot for families with children wanting to relax or have a day adventuring and swimming.
Maitai Bay is located northeast of Kaitaia, approximately 45km away. If you are travelling up from Kaitai head north on State Highway 1 until you reach Awanui, then take the right onto State Highway 10. After approximately 15km, just before Lake Ohia, take the left onto Inland Road, continuing along for another 15km up to Maitai Bay/Waikato Bay Carpark. There’s a DOC campsite nearby, allowing visitors to stay overnight for easy beach access, making it a great spot for either a multiple-day trip or an afternoon visit.
Oke Bay, Bay of Islands
Tucked away near Russell in the Bay of Islands, Oke Bay is an idyllic destination for travellers looking for a peaceful beach escape. Its white sandy shore and clear turquoise waters create a picture-perfect setting that is relatively quiet, even during peak travel seasons. The surrounding native forest adds to its charm, making it a great spot for a picnic or an afternoon of relaxation. Kayakers and snorkelers love the bay for its marine life, while walkers can explore the nearby tracks that lead to stunning viewpoints.
Oke Bay is located near Rawhiti, approximately 25km southeast of Russell. To get there from Russell, take Russell-Whakapara Road out of town, then turn left onto Waikare Road. Follow this winding coastal route for about 14km before turning right onto Rawhiti Road. From here, park near the Oke Bay Track entrance and take a short scenic walk down to the beach.
West Coast North Island Beaches
The west coast of the North Island contrasts with the serene northern shores, offering dramatic landscapes and wild surf. Known for its rugged surroundings, black sand, and powerful waves, these beaches are perfect for surfers and those looking for a more adventurous beach day. Many of the west coast beaches are located within regional parks or reserves, providing excellent hiking opportunities alongside stunning coastal views. However, the surf here can be intense, so swimming should be done with caution and within lifeguarded areas.
Piha Beach, Auckland
One of the most famous surf beaches in New Zealand, Piha Beach is a must-visit for those wanting a taste of Auckland’s west coast. The striking black sand, seaside cliffs, and the iconic Lion Rock make it a must-see spot on New Zealand’s North Island. Piha is the perfect beach for surfers to enjoy powerful waves and those interested in walking to explore the many trails in the surrounding Waitākere Ranges. The beach is also a great place to watch the sunset over the west coast.
Piha Beach is located about 40km west of Auckland’s CBD, taking approximately 45 minutes by car. To get there, take State Highway 16 West and turn right onto Route 13. Follow along route 13 until you reach Piha Road and head down. Follow along Route 13 until you reach Piha Road. This winding road leads directly to Piha, offering stunning views before arriving at the beach. Parking is available near the beachfront, with easy access to walking tracks, surf spots, and scenic lookouts.
Muriwai Beach, Auckland
Stretching for 60 kilometres along the west coast, Muriwai Beach is famous for its gannet colony, striking cliffs, and wild surf. It’s a top choice for those looking for adventure, whether that be in the form of surfing, fishing, or exploring the coastal scenery. The gannet colony, located on the cliffs near the southern end of the beach, is a must-see, especially between August and March when the birds are nesting. Murawai is also the perfect spot for outdoor activities like surfing in the rugged waves or trekking on the beach on horseback.
Muriwai Beach is located about 40-50 minutes away from Auckland’s CBD. To get there, take State Highway 16 west and exit at Waimauku. Follow State Highway 16 for about 10km, then turn left onto Muriwai Road. Continue for another 9km, following signs for Muriwai Beach. The road winds through rolling countryside before arriving at the main car park near the beach.
Ngarunui Beach, Raglan
Raglan is renowned for its surf culture, and Ngarunui Beach is at the heart of it all. This expansive stretch of black sand is perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers, thanks to its consistent waves. Beyond the surf, Ngarunui is an excellent spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying long coastal walks. The surrounding area is full of charming cafes and surf shops, making it the perfect place for a beach day.
The beach is accessed via Wainui Road which you can hop on from the heart of Ragland. Head along Wainui Road for about 4km then take a right onto Ngarunui Beach Road and follow along until you reach the car park where a short walking track will take you down to the beachfront.
East Coast North Island Beaches
The East Coast is known for its golden sands, sheltered bays, and warm waters, making it perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing. The beaches here tend to be more family-friendly, with calmer surf and a wide range of accommodation options nearby. These locations are particularly popular in the summer months, attracting both locals and tourists looking for the perfect beach getaway.
Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula
A highlight of the Coromandel Peninsula, Cathedral Cove is one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand. The stunning rock arch, golden sands, and clear waters make it a top beach destination in the North Island and New Zealand as a whole. The cove is only accessible by foot, boat, or kayak, with the walk from Hahei Beach taking around 45 minutes. The surrounding marine reserve offers incredible snorkelling with many fish and marine life nearby. For those looking for an adventure, guided kayak tours provide a unique way to explore the area.
For the walking track, drive or walk to the Cathedral Cove Car Park on Grange Road in Hahei. From there, follow the well-marked walking track, which takes approximately 45 minutes one way. The path offers stunning views before heading down to the beach.
Hahei Beach, Coromandel Peninsula
Hahei Beach, also located on the Coromandel Peninsula, is a must-visit spot, known for its soft, pinkish-white sands and calm, clear waters. The gentle waves and warm temperatures make it one of the most popular swimming beaches on the North Island. It’s also the gateway to Cathedral Cove. Visitors can kayak, take a boat tour, or walk from Hahei to explore this stunning rock arch and marine reserve. One of Hahei’s standout features is its proximity to the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, a hot spot for marine life.
Hahei Beach is easily accessible via Hahei Beach Road from the nearby village, which offers cafes, restaurants, and accommodation, making it a great base for exploring the Coromandel.
Wainui Beach, Gisborne
Located just minutes from Gisborne, Wainui Beach is one of the most stunning and well-loved surf beaches in New Zealand. Wainui Beach is famous for its consistent waves, perfect for both beginner and experienced surfers. Gisborne is known as the first city in the world to see the sunrise, and Wainui Beach offers an unforgettable view of the sun over the Pacific Ocean. The surf conditions at Wainui Beach are excellent year-round, however, the beach is also great for swimming, with clear, warm waters in the summer months.
Wainui Beach is easily accessible via Wainui Road, just a 10-minute drive from Gisborne’s city centre. Head out of the town centre on Pacific Coast Highway, hopping straight onto Wainui Road until you reach Moana Road to find parking options for easy beach access along the road.
Plan Your Visit to NZ’s Beautiful North Island Beaches
New Zealand’s North Island is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. From the untouched beauty of Maitai Bay in the far north to the rugged surf beaches of the west coast and the golden sands of the east, there’s a perfect beach for all preferences along New Zealand’s North Island coasts.
Exploring these beaches is even easier when you have the right vehicle for your adventure. Find a range of rental cars and vans at Mode Rentals, making it simple to hit the road and experience everything the North Island has to offer. With convenient pick-up and drop-off locations in Auckland, Wellington, and more you’ll be on your way to discovering these stunning North Island beaches in no time.
Book online today with Mode Rentals and start planning your ultimate New Zealand road trip.
