Are you on the hunt for the best New Zealand beaches? I’m here to help!
As a local New Zealander who spends the majority of summer at the beach, I’ve discovered all the best spots that are worth visiting.
New Zealand, a land renowned for its dramatic landscapes and breathtaking views, is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the world – not that I’m biased… But seriously, I’ve travelled to 24 different countries now and a lot of the beaches on this list still take out the top spot in my books!
From the rugged, untamed shores of the wild West Coast to the sun-drenched, golden bays of the North Island, this guide will take you on a journey to discover hidden gems and local favourites.
So, grab your sunscreen and join me as we explore the top beaches in New Zealand, as we have with other destinations in the past.
Table of Contents
Top 15 New Zealand Beaches
Below you will find the 15 best beaches in New Zealand, as recommended by a local!
New Zealand is one of few places, together with Norway, where you can find both fjords AND beaches! Get it?
Read next: A guide to New Zealand’s fjords
#1 Te Arai
Te Arai Beach is a stunning coastal gem located on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, near the town of Mangawhai. This beach is known for its vast stretches of soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a haven for beachgoers, surfers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
It’s a particularly popular spot with surfers (and a great place for surf lessons). The beach offers consistent waves that cater to all levels, with various surf schools and rental services available for those looking to catch their first wave or improve their skills.
Its location makes it a perfect day trip from Auckland, driving here takes about an hour and a half, offering a quick escape to one of New Zealand’s most beautiful beaches.
#2 Omaha Beach
Omaha Beach is easily one of my favourite beaches in the Auckland region. It’s super easy to get here from the city and takes about an hour – if you get lucky with the traffic.
Located on the east coast of the North Island, it’s a picturesque destination and popular beach town. There are a lot of holiday homes here and a collection of shops and cafes by the surf club so it’s very easy to spend the day here.
The beach is big enough that even on a busy day, there’s plenty of room for everyone. Again it’s a popular surfing spot when the conditions are right but some days it can also be completely flat, making it super relaxing for a swim or perfect for getting the paddle board out.
#3 Opito Bay
Opito Bay, situated in the stunning Coromandel Peninsula on the North Island, is a hidden gem that offers a slice of paradise away from the crowds. If I had to choose one beach in New Zealand to be my favourite, it would probably be Opito Bay.
This secluded beach is renowned for its pristine white sands, and calm turquoise waters. It’s such a beautiful spot, when we went here I never wanted to leave! It was even more serene that there were hardly any people around, even though I was here in summer.
When visiting Opito Bay, make sure you also walk around to Crayfish Bay. The landscape is completely different and totally unique, it’s well worth seeing.
A part of what keeps this slice of paradise so secluded is you can only stay here if you rent a holiday home, there are no motels or campgrounds in Optio Bay itself.
#4 Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui, often called “The Mount” by locals, is a lively coastal town in the Bay of Plenty region. With its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere, Mount Maunganui offers a unique blend of natural beauty and leisure activities that make it a must-visit destination.
The main beach at Mount Maunganui is a long stretch of golden sand that has been consistently voted as one of New Zealand’s best beaches. It’s a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, attracting beachgoers from all over the world.
I’ve spent a lot of time here over the years, it certainly gets pretty busy in peak summer that’s for sure so try to avoid visiting over the Christmas holidays if you can.
Another thing I love about Mount Maunganui is it isn’t just the beach that’s gorgeous but the town is fun to explore. There are plenty of boutique shops, cafes and bars worth visiting. Copenhagen Cones are known for their delicious ice creams, they make their waffle cones fresh and they smell soo good!! Astrolabe Brewbar is also a very popular spot with outdoor seating and delicious pub-style food.
#5 Piha Beach
Piha is another Auckland beach that’s worth visiting, it’s only a 45-minute drive from the city. This rugged West Coast gem is set within the Waitakere Ranges and is famous for its black sand, towering cliffs, and the iconic ‘Lion Rock’ located in the centre of the beach.
It’s considered one of New Zealand’s top surfing destinations, but the strong currents and rips mean it’s best suited to experienced surfers.
Lifeguards patrol the beach during the summer months, and designated swimming areas are flagged for safety. Piha is known for being a pretty dangerous beach so it’s highly advised to stay between the flags when out swimming.
The best way to spend your day at Piha is to take a picnic with you and hang around till sunset. Due to its West Coast location, the sunsets here are super dreamy!
#6 New Chums Beach
New Chums is one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets and is often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Part of what makes this beach so special is it’s only accessible on foot which has helped preserve its untouched beauty and serene atmosphere.
Tucked away on the Coromandel Peninsula, this slice of paradise is accessible via a walking track that begins at the northern end of Whangapoua Beach. This walk, which takes about 30 to 40 minutes can be done either side of low tide. Make sure you also head up to the New Chums Beach lookout before going down to the beach because these views are something else.
I would happily travel back to New Chums Beach every weekend if I could! It’s that beautiful.
Due to being so secluded, there are no facilities here so make sure you bring some water and food with you if you plan to hang out for a while. Just remember to leave the beach as you found it and take all your rubbish home with you.
#7 Matapouri Bay
Matapouri Bay, nestled on the stunning Tutukaka Coast in the Northland region of New Zealand’s North Island, is a coastal haven renowned for its pristine white sand beach, and crystal-clear water.
It’s become more popular over the years but this idyllic bay still offers a tranquil retreat for beach lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a picturesque slice of paradise. The waves are gentle making it a perfect spot for swimming or kayaking.
Matapouri Bay is easily accessible from the road, with a scenic drive from Whangarei taking approximately 45 minutes.
#8 Hot Water Beach
Hot Water Beach is not only famous for its beautiful landscapes set within the Coromandel Peninsula but it’s also extremely well known for its natural underground hot springs that filter up through the sand.
You can dig your own natural spa pool in the sand which is pretty cool! Just make sure you visit two hours on either side of low tide so you can access the sand on the right part of the beach. Don’t worry about not being able to find the right spot, there’s a very high chance other people will also be here digging.
If you haven’t got a shovel, it’s possible to rent one from local shops. You can also swim at Hot Water Beach but do be cautious as the currents can be strong.
#9 Kuaotunu Beach
Kuaotunu is another hidden gem that tourists often miss. Also located in the Coromandel Peninsula, close to Opito Bay, Kuaotunu offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The beach itself is beautiful, stretching along the coast and offering an idyllic setting for sunbathing, swimming, and long, leisurely walks.
There is a campground in Kuaotunu and I usually stay here when exploring the area. It has a beautiful river that runs through the camp, the sunsets are stunning and it’s located directly across from the beach – what more could you ask for! It’s definitely one of my favourite Coromandel camping spots.
The town is very small, there’s no supermarket here but that’s all part of the charm. Luke’s Kitchen is a must-try if you feel like enjoying a meal out.
#10 Hahei Beach
Another favourite New Zealand beach of mine, also located on the Coromandel Peninsula is Hahei Beach. This gem screams Kiwi summer with its soft white sand and clear blue water. On a calm day, the gentle waves make for a peaceful swim.
Hahei itself is a small, welcoming community with a laid-back vibe. It’s another popular holiday destination so try avoid visiting on long weekends or over the school holidays to beat the crowds.
The village offers a range of accommodation options, cafes, and local shops, making Hahei Beach an excellent base for exploring the wider Coromandel area.
#11 Cathedral Cove
A short boat ride from Hahei Beach is where you’ll find Cathedral Cove, one of the Coromandel Peninsula’s most iconic natural landmarks.
The cove itself is framed by towering white limestone cliffs and is home to a stunning beach with soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. It has always been one of my favourite spots to visit whenever I plan a trip to Hahei or Hot Water Beach.
Usually, Cathedral Cove is accessible by foot but at the moment the Cathedral Cove walkway is closed until further notice due to storm damage and landslips so currently it’s only accessible by boat. It is also advised not to stand near or walk under the cove’s arch.
Even if you just choose to stay on the boat, Cathedral Cove is still gorgeous and well worth visiting.
#12 Kaiteriteri Beach
If you’re heading to the South Island then make sure you don’t miss Kaiteriteri Beach. It’s famous for its distinctive golden sands, derived from high quartz content, which gives the beach a warm, inviting glow.
In the summer it gets pretty packed, it’s a very popular spot! Split Apple Rock is also worth visiting to escape the crowds for a bit.
Kaiteriteri serves as a primary entry point to the Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand’s smallest but most visited national park. If you have some extra time in the area I’d highly recommend exploring the park further and visiting some of the other beaches in the area because they are seriously breathtaking (and a lot less crowded)!
You don’t have to walk the entire Abel Tasman track either, it’s possible to walk one way on a day trip and catch a water taxi back to the start.
#13 Tauranga Bay
Located in the Northland region, Tauranga Bay is a picturesque beach known for its expansive, sheltered bay and fine, golden sand. This beach is a favourite among families offering gentle waves and clear waters ideal for swimming and water activities.
One of the best things about the bay is the beachfront camping. I would highly recommend staying here for a few nights and soaking up the scenery. It’s one of my favourite Northland camping spots, you really can’t beat falling asleep to the sound of the ocean.
#14 Tawharanui Regional Park Beach
Tawharanui Regional Park Beach, located on the Tawharanui Peninsula north of Auckland, boasts one of the region’s most beautiful white-sand beaches, backed by rolling pastures and native forest.
This regional park integrates conservation, recreation, and farming, making it a unique destination. Then the beach itself offers excellent conditions for swimming, surfing, and kayaking, with its clear blue waters and abundant marine life.
#15 Awaroa Bay
Awaroa Bay is located at the top of the South Island within Abel Tasman National Park. It is a beautiful stretch of secluded coastline. The turquoise waters and golden sand are so stunning that a group of New Zealanders raised money to buy this spot for the Department of Conservation so that it could be kept open to the public.
Since there is no road access and the nearest camping spot is an hour and a half’s walk away, Awaroa Bay is extremely remote which helps keep it so pristine. You could say I saved the best for last!!
Final Words: The Best Beaches in New Zealand
Well that’s a wrap on the best beaches in New Zealand! I hope this list has given you some inspiration for your trip. You honestly can’t go wrong with any of these beaches, they’re all as stunning as each other and offer a unique slice of New Zealand’s coastal beauty.
From the golden sands of Kaiteriteri Bay to the tranquil waters of Matapouri Bay, and the natural sanctuary of Tawharanui Regional Park. Whether you’re after a peaceful retreat, a family-friendly beach day, or an outdoor adventure, these beaches provide a perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories in New Zealand’s stunning landscape.
I hope you enjoy immersing yourself in nature, exploring the local communities and experiencing the best of the Kiwi lifestyle!