Auckland’s West Coast has several impressive beaches where you will find giant waves from the Tasman Sea crashing in onto rocks the black sand shores.  Less than an hour from the city these beaches are a great escape from the hustle and bustle. This coast is a favourite with surfers, swimmers, beach walkers and those who enjoy a spot of fishing.  In a day you can easily visit a beach or two and if you have the time then pack a bag and spend a weekend. Let’s find out what Auckland’s West Coast beaches have to offer.

MURIWAI BEACH

42KMS FROM AUCKLAND CITY

THE GANNET COLONY

There is something that makes Muriwai unique and that is the Gannet Colony. This impressive gathering of large sea birds can be seen close up from August through to March each year. They come to Muriwai Beach to nest and if you want to see the gorgeous gannet chicks then the first of them start arriving in December. By March the chicks have grown and are leaving their nests. The colony can be seen from viewing platforms which are just a short walk from the main car park.

SURFING AND BLOKARTS AT MURIWAI BEACH

Muriwai is a surfing hotspot and a good place to give surfing a go. Muriwai Surf School has everything you need from surfboards, wetsuits, and lessons. They also hire out blockarts which are loads of fun! However, you do need a windy day and can only ride them two hours either side of low tide.

FISHING AT MURIWAI BEACH

Fishing is another popular activity at Muriwai with the rocks to the left of the beach often crowded over the summer. However, if you are going to fish here please take care! A number of people have lost their lives due to large waves sweeping them off the rocks. Check the tides, the high tide seems to be the better option for fishing but make sure you observe the situation before heading down onto the rocks. Lastly, a life jacket is essential.

WHERE TO EAT AND STAY AT MURIWAI BEACH

If you are looking for a good coffee, snack, meal or takeaways then Sand Dunz Beach Cafe is where you need to go. Located just 50 meters from the beach means you can park up and stroll between the two.

Right by the beach, Muriwai Beach Campground has a variety of accommodation options from tent sites to cabins. If you don’t have your own tent you can hire one.

There are a number of Airbnb options for Muriwai Beach and the surrounding area. If you haven’t used Airbnb before it is a great accommodation choice to consider. You can get up to $50 off your first booking by using this link – AIRBNB $50 OFF

TE HENGA (BETHELLS BEACH)

35KMS FROM AUCKLAND CITY

TE HENGA WALKWAY

If you are up for an amazing coastal walk then Te Henga Walkway won’t disappoint. You can choose your distance depending on the time you have. Just over 2km will take you to O’Neils Bay which is an estimated 40 minutes one way. Another couple of kilometers will see you at Raetahinga Point and if you are feeling really ambitious you can walk all the way up the coast to South Muriwai. If you are going to walk the full 10km length of Te Henga Walkway then you need to be prepared for the return trip which is estimated at nearly 7 hours or arrange for someone to collect you at the end.

SWIMMING AT TE HENGA (BETHELLS BEACH)

Smaller and more sheltered than the other of Auckland’s West Coast beaches makes Te Henga (Bethells Beach) one of the safer beaches for swimming. The beach is patrolled by volunteer lifeguards on weekends and public holidays from Labour Weekend(October) to Easter Weekend (April). During the peak summer period, paid lifeguards are on patrol during weekdays.

BRING THE DOG TO TE HENGA (BETHELLS BEACH)

Te Henga (Bethells Beach) is one of Auckland’s most popular beaches for dogs. Pooches love to burn energy along the shoreline while their owners stroll the beach. Your pet will love you for letting them loose here.

WHERE TO EAT AND STAY AT TE HENGA (BETHELLS BEACH)

There are few options for food and beverages at Te Henga (Bethells Beach) so packing a picnic is a good idea if you plan to spend the day here.

However, there is one possible option if you visit in the summer months or on weekends and that is the mobile Bethells Cafe. They serve great food and coffee and can be found near the entrance to the beach. Although the cafe has EFTPOS, due to the remoteness of this location it occasionally doesn’t work so be sure to bring cash just in case.

Wainamu Luxury Tents is described as Botswana Safari Tents meets Māori Whare. Wainamu is off the grid and you won’t find any cell phone reception so it is the perfect option for those wanting to escape the chaos of the city.

Bethells Beach Cottages has three cottages to choose from. They are perfect for a family getaway or a romantic weekend. Weddings and functions are also hosted here in this stunning location.

PIHA BEACH

40KMS FROM AUCKLAND CITY

THE FAMOUS PIHA BEACH

Piha is not only the most popular beach on Auckland’s West Coast but it is one of New Zealand’s most dangerous. Lifeguards busy saving lives make for good television and the first season of Piha Rescue screened in 2001. The series shows real rescues that occur regularly along this coastline. Twelve seasons have been produced making Piha even more popular but also highlighting how important it is to show caution when entering the waters of Auckland’s West Coast. You may find episodes to watch online if you are interested in watching the heroes of this beach.

LION ROCK (TE PIHA)

Lion Rock is iconic to Piha and separates Piha Beach with North Piha. Although you can no longer climb right to the top (too dangerous) of the rock you can climb part of the way for incredible views. This rock is special to the people of Te Kawerau a Maki (Māori tribe of this area) who know it as Te Piha, hence where this beach got its name. At the end of the short steep climb up Te Piha there is a pou (carved pole) dedicated to an ancestress of the Te Kawerau a Maki people, Ngati Tangiaro Taua . This was her favourite place to sit on Te Piha.

SURFING AT PIHA BEACH

Piha is undoubtedly the most frequented surf beach on Auckland’s West Coast and said to be the most popular surf beach in New Zealand. Massive rock formations make for some fantastic surf breaks and access points to the surf. Left and right-hand breaks can be found either side of Lion Rock with a number of other great breaks on both Piha and North Piha beaches. Most days it is suitable for all levels but it is best to leave it for the experienced surfers when the waves are big.

It is a good idea to check the conditions on Swell Map which will give you wind, swell and tide information. Due to its popularity, the water can get crowded so know your rules. If it is a surf lesson you are after then you will find the New Zealand champion surfers as instructors at the Piha Surf School. Lessons are an hour and a half and include a surfboard and wetsuit.

WHERE TO EAT AND STAY AT PIHA BEACH

There are limited options for eating out in Piha so if you are planning on spending the day then you might prefer to pack a picnic. Alternatively, there is a great store and cafe close to the beach.

The Piha Store is the original village store and the perfect place to stop for the morning paper, a barista coffee or a meaty hot pie. There is a range of delicious cabinet food that caters for all dietary needs and the store also stocks groceries and organic goods. A good option if you want to eat on the move.

If you are after a decent sit-down meal then The Piha Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch. They offer a good range of pizzas along with a variety of other menu items to suit a range of dietary needs. Being a licensed cafe means you can enjoy a nice cold beer with your lunch on a hot summers day. A little pricey but it is the only cafe in Piha so to be expected.

The Piha Domain Motorcamp is a campground located close to the beach and across the road from The Piha Store. A very popular camping option over the summer offering tent and powered sites.

Piha Beachstay might suit those looking for a more comfortable private room or dorm-type accommodation. A very convenient location as the store, cafe, and beach are all within walking distance.

There are a number of Airbnb options for Piha Beach and the surrounding area. If you haven’t used Airbnb before it is a great accommodation option to consider. You can get up to $50 off your first booking by using this link – AIRBNB $50 OFF

KAREKARE BEACH

37KMS FROM AUCKLAND CITY

Karekare Beach is well known for its dramatic landscapes that have attracted writers, photographers and filmmakers alike. It was the setting for the award-winning movie, The Piano. The road to Karekare veers off to the left just minutes before reaching Piha so it is easy to visit both beaches in one day. The sealed road down to Karekare is narrow and steep so be sure to take care.

KAREKARE FALLS

A big attraction to Karekare is the gorgeous 30-meter Karekare Falls. The falls can be reached with a short walk along Lone Kauri Road, from the main car park. From the beginning of the La Trobe Track it will only take you five minutes to reach the bottom of the falls. There are a few steps so unfortunately, it is not wheelchair friendly but you should be able to get a good pram there with ease.

SWIMMING AT KAREKARE BEACH

Karekare is a popular beach for surfing, swimming, and fishing but like all West Coast Beaches, caution should always be taken. At Karekare Beach you will find the well establish Karekare Surf Club where volunteers have been saving lives since 1935. Patrols take place on weekends and public holidays from Labour Weekend until Easter.

WHERE TO EAT AND STAY AT KAREKARE

This is another remote beach with no cafes or stores despite there being a small settlement here. However, it is not far from Piha where you will find the Piha Cafe and Piha Store. Alternatively, you could stop in at Elevation, just 15 minutes from Karekare. They offer a fantastic brunch/lunch and after 5 bistro menu. But what makes this eatery really special though is the amazing views from the deck! You can see across Auckland and beyond which makes for a unique dining experience.

McCreadies Paddock Campground is a small campsite for tents with a maximum capacity of 20. A very affordable option at $8 per night for adults and $4 for children. Bookings are essential and facilities include toilets and untreated water. All rubbish must be taken out by visitors. It is not quite at the beach but just a short walk to the main beach carpark.

As there is a small settlement in Karekare and you will find a few Airbnb options. If you haven’t used Airbnb before it is a great accommodation option to consider. You can get up to $50 off your first booking by using this link – AIRBNB $50 OFF

WHATIPU BEACH

41KM FROM AUCKLAND CITY

Whatipu Beach is the most southern beach along Auckland’s West Coast, situated on the entrance to the Manukau Harbour. There is something really special about this place, maybe it is the remoteness or possibly the gorgeous scenic drive getting there.

WHATIPU CAVES

A significant attraction to Whatipu are the caves, an easy 15-25 minute walk from the campground. You will find a number of caves scattered along the track which leads to the Whatipu Cave Campsite. Some of the caves are well hidden by trees and shrubs so it is a good idea to keep an eye out for well-trodden paths. If you are planning to explore the caves make sure you have a good source of light as some of the caves go deep and get very dark. Be sure to watch out for falling rocks, don’t hang around the cave entrances for longer than you need to. Lastly, keep an eye out for cave weta which you may find if you look up.

HUIA

Huia is a settlement that you will pass through on the way out to Whatipu Beach. It is worth stopping here to enjoy some spectacular views across the Manukau harbour. You can call into the Huia Foodstore for coffee and cake or maybe pick up a few snacks on the way. You may also be interested in stopping at the Huia Settlers Museum.

WHERE TO EAT AND STAY IN WHATIPU

Packing a picnic is the best idea if you are heading out to Whatipu Beach for the day. There are plenty of idyllic spots to spread a blanket and enjoy your lunch. It is also worth noting the town of Titirangi, where you will find a number of great dining options. The Stripe Cafe is a favourite, cosy establishment where you will find great coffee, cabinet food and menu options for all-day breakfast and lunch. Also, and don’t forget the Huia Foodstore just 20 minutes from Whatipu.

Whatipu Lodge & Campground is located right next to the main car park at Whatipu Beach. The Lodge is a great option for groups. However, it is not so economical for just a few people as there is a minimum charge of $250 per night. The Campground works on a first in first serve basis unless you are a group of 12+ then you should book. It is a basic campground with toilets, cold showers, and unfiltered water.

If you are looking for a real remote camping experience you can book and stay at the Whatipu Caves Campsite during the summer months. This campsite opens from November. It is a good idea to book early if you want a spot. There is a maximum capacity of 20 and the only facility here is one composting toilet. This campsite is near the caves with panoramic views overlooking the coast.

PLEASE NOTE – From 1 May 2018, many walking tracks and areas of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park have been closed to prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease. To find out more visit the Auckland City Council Website.

Other articles that may interest you:
Kitekite Falls, Piha
Getting to Great Barrier Island
Six Day Trips from Auckland

ABOUT THE WRITER – Karllie is a solo budget traveller with a passion for inspiring others to explore her homeland of Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. Having travelled to many places around the world she still believes there is nowhere more amazing and beautiful as home. In her 40s, Karllie has a background in education and enjoys the outdoors, especially hiking. Find out more about Karllie…

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