PHOTO: Pexels
Discover New Zealand’s Most Stunning Beaches: A Comprehensive Guide for Beach Lovers
With an awe-inspiring 15,000km (9320 miles) of coastline, New Zealand is a paradise for beach enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking tranquil sunsets, thrilling adventures like surfing and kayaking, or hidden coastal gems, Aotearoa’s shores offer something for everyone.
Finding a great beach is effortless, but narrowing down your options can be daunting. Here’s your ultimate guide to New Zealand’s top 10 beaches, each offering a unique slice of coastal heaven.
1. Piha Beach: Iconic and Adventurous
Located on Auckland’s rugged west coast, Piha Beach is renowned for its dramatic black sands and powerful surf. This beach is a haven for thrill-seekers and sunbathers alike. Frolic in the foamy waves (always swim between the flags), or take a stroll to marvel at the stunning headlands of Lion Rock and Taitomo Island.
Get to know New Zealand’s very best beaches with this guide © Auckland Festival of Photography Trust / Getty Images
Planning Tip:
Piha is best visited in the summer months. Ensure you bring plenty of water and sunscreen as the black sand can become scorching hot under the midday sun.
2. Anchorage: The Jewel of Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park boasts countless breathtaking beaches, but Anchorage stands out with its golden sands and lush forest backdrop. This tranquil paradise is accessible via the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.
Planning Tip:
Stay overnight at the conservation campsite or hut to fully enjoy the beach. Take a detour to Cleopatra’s Pool, a natural rock pool with a smooth water slide.
3. Ninety Mile Beach: Epic Coastal Adventure
Despite its misleading name, Ninety Mile Beach stretches 88km (54.6 miles) along Northland’s west coast. This seemingly endless expanse of sand, bordered by giant dunes and the Tasman Sea, offers a unique adventure.
The North Island’s Ninety Mile Beach is only 88km long © Amos Chapple / Lonely Planet Images / Getty Images
Planning Tip:
Te Paki Stream car park provides a great access point to the beach. From here, explore the dunes or walk north to Scott Point for panoramic views.
4. Scott’s Beach: Remote and Rugged Beauty
Scott’s Beach marks the coastal crescendo of the Heaphy Track in Kahurangi National Park. This remote spot, accessible via the scenic drive through Karamea and a short hike from Kōhaihai, offers an untouched coastal experience.
Planning Tip:
Pack sturdy shoes for the hike and a camera to capture the ethereal beauty of the salt-misted shoreline, jagged rocks, and native nikau palms.
5. New Chums Beach: The Hidden Gem
On the Coromandel Peninsula, New Chums Beach is a secluded treasure that promises serenity. Accessible only via a 30-minute trek from Whangapoua, the effort required to reach this beach deters crowds, ensuring a peaceful visit.
Isolated New Chums Beach is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful © MB Photography / Getty Images
Planning Tip:
Visit during low tide and wear sturdy shoes for the rocky path. If you’re there around Christmas, you’ll see pōhutukawa trees in full bloom, adding a festive touch to the golden sands.
6. Ngarunui Beach: Surfing for All Levels
Located near the laid-back surf town of Raglan, Ngarunui Beach is perfect for those learning to surf. With gentle waves and lifeguard patrols from October to April, it’s a family-friendly beach that also appeals to beginner surfers.
Planning Tip:
Join a lesson at Raglan Surf School for an unforgettable experience. If you prefer spectating, Manu Bay nearby offers views of expert surfers riding some of the longest left-hand breaks in the world.
7. Wainui Beach: Eastland’s Crown Jewel
Just north of Gisborne, Wainui Beach is a favorite among swimmers and surfers. Backed by dune and bush reserves, this beach fosters a close-knit community of ocean enthusiasts.
Wainui Beach is regarded as one of New Zealand’s best surfing destinations © PhotoCPL / Getty Image
Planning Tip:
Stop by Zephyr Wainui for plant-based smoothies and bowls after a day on the waves. Early mornings here are magical, with soft light casting a golden hue over the water.
8. Pūrākaunui Bay: Tranquil Escape in the Catlins
Nestled in the Catlins, Pūrākaunui Bay is a secluded sanctuary far from the hustle and bustle. The beach is framed by towering cliffs and native bush, offering peace and quiet with minimal distractions.
Planning Tip:
Perfect for camping and disconnecting, this beach is ideal for a digital detox. Swim when the surf is calm, or try surfing when the waves pick up.
9. Wharariki Beach: Nature’s Masterpiece
A short walk through farmland leads to Wharariki Beach in Golden Bay, where mighty dunes and jagged rock formations meet the wild Tasman Sea. This photogenic spot is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, with seals often seen playing in the shallows.
Wharariki Beach isn’t great for swimming, but perfect for a peaceful walk on the shore © 7Michael / Getty Images
Planning Tip:
Swimming is dangerous here, so focus on exploring the dunes and capturing stunning photos. Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting.
10. Cathedral Cove: A Natural Icon
One of New Zealand’s most famous beaches, Cathedral Cove, features a grand stone arch and a natural waterfall. However, storm damage in 2023 has limited access. Visitors can still reach the beach via kayak or boat, but safety precautions are essential.
Planning Tip:
Before planning your trip, check the Department of Conservation’s website for updates on access. For snorkeling enthusiasts, nearby Gemstone Bay offers a marine reserve with abundant marine life.
New Zealand’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful. From the black sands of Piha to the golden seclusion of New Chums Beach, there’s something for every kind of beach lover. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or breathtaking landscapes, New Zealand’s coastline promises unforgettable experiences.
SOURCE: LONELY PLANET