Northland Beaches

Did somebody say 'beaches'? Northland has everything you need for a packed sand-and-sea itinerary. Here are some of the best coastal spots.

What to do in Northland? Why, go to the beach, of course. Okay, so there are actually heaps of other things to do in this beautiful part of New Zealand's North Island, but with coasts this beautiful, at least one beach trip is a must-do.

Part of the beauty of planning a trip in Northland is that the distances are relatively small, especially when it comes to driving east to west or west to east. That means you can find time to visit beaches on both the western coast and the eastern coast. And it's well worth doing that, since they have hugely different personalities.

Ready to take on those beautiful North Island beaches? Let's go!

West Coast Beaches

Wild, wonderful and scattered with wacky rock formations, vast dunes and atmospheric shipwrecks, the western coast is nature at its most raw.
Despite its name, Ninety Mile Beach is a still very impressive 55 miles long. Various parts of it are the perfect match for swimming, surfing and fishing.
Follow Ninety Mile Beach South to reach the clean, light sands along the coast of surf-friendly Ahipara Bay.

East Coast Beaches

White sands, blue waters and a wealth of outdoor activities guarantee an unforgettable experience in the tropical Bay of Islands.
Dolphins are regular guests at Bay of Islands beaches. Try Oke Bay for a good chance of spotting some.
To the north of the Bay of Islands, Matauri Bay has tip-top diving, snorkelling and a scenic drive aptly nicknamed Million Dollar View Road.

Swimming Beaches

The Bay of Islands is a safe bet for swimming. Sheltered golden-sand Long Beach (Oneroa) is a favourite with locals.
Taupo Bay is a great far-north option for calm water conditions made for swimming, diving, snorkelling, kayaking and more.
Oakura is a long-standing family favourite. This chilled-out swimming beach is within easy reach of the Bay of Islands.

Created in partnership with Northland RDO

Don't miss Northland's top attractions!

Russell Beach

Wander along the jetty for wonderful views of Kororareka Bay, get out on the water in a boat and enjoy alfresco dining along the beachfront.

Kai Iwi Lakes

Hike through the forest, go kayaking, set up camp on the lakeshore or dip into the clear waters for a swim in this scenic triple-lake nature reserve.

Mangawhai Heads Beach

Part of a scenic natural harbor, this sandy South Pacific beach in New Zealand’s Northland is a wonderful place to relax or get active in the outdoors.

Paihia Beach

Go on fishing charters, swim in the sea and browse shops and restaurants near Paihia’s main beach, the site of an annual swimming event that attracts competitors from around the country.

Te Paki Sand Dunes

Ride across or down massive dunes on a sandboard or just enjoy the scenery and the coastal views at this outstanding natural attraction.

Northland activities

Bay of Islands Cruise & Scenic Helicopter Flight

By Salt Air

Recommended 100% by Travellers

Experience the Bay of Islands from both the air and sea. Soar through the sky via helicopter for a bird's-eye view of more than 144 islands, visit Roberton

Duration: 4h

Bay of Islands Cruise Excursion - Hole in Rock Cruise

By Canterbury Leisure Tours

Recommended 88% by Travellers

Discover one of New Zealand's best sailing, fishing, and tourist destinations with a half-day cruise that shows what the Bay of Islands is all about. Home to

Duration: 3h

Full-Day Cape Reinga Tour

By GreatSights

Recommended 82% by Travellers

Uncover the wild beauty of the vast and untouched region at the tip of the North Island—Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua). As you travel north, enjoy a taste

Duration: 11h

Cape Reinga Airplane Flight & Drive Half Day Tour

By Salt Air

Recommended 100% by Travellers

Take in the majestic landscapes of New Zealand’s North Island from both air and land where 2 scenic flights give you unforgettable bird’s-eye views of the

Duration: 4h 20m

2hr Surf Lesson - Tutukaka Coast

By ONeill Surf Academy NZ

The O'Neill Surf Academy Learn to Surf 2 hour surf lessons cover all aspects of learning to surf, whether it’s a brief intro or making progress. We teach

Duration: 2h

Bay of Islands Day Cruise Adventure on 'The Rock'

By The Rock Adventure Cruise

Glide across bright blue waters between lush green isles on a comfortable boat that immerses you in the spectacular wonders of the Bay of Islands. Sail out to

Duration: 5h 30m

Day Tripper Surf Tour- Tutukaka Coast

By ONeill Surf Academy NZ

Our Learn to surf 'Day Tripper' is great value! A full day at the beach with a morning surf lesson, lunch to refuel then an afternoon surf lesson. O'Neill

Duration: 5h

Kids Surf Lesson - Tutukaka Coast

By ONeill Surf Academy NZ

These extra special O'Neill Surf Academy lessons are designed with kids in mind. Providing children with the opportunity to learn about beach safety, ocean

Duration: 2h

Post-Cruise Shore Excursion: Guided Bay of Islands Tour with Transfers

By Canterbury Leisure Tours

End your cruise vacation with one last excursion to the beautiful Bay of Islands. This tour takes care of transportation and accommodation, allowing you to

Duration: 3d

Shore Excursion: Bay of Islands Helicopter Flight

By Canterbury Leisure Tours

Discover the Bay of Islands with a helicopter flight that lets you see the lush grasses and island beaches from your vantage above the spectacular coastline.

Duration: 20m

Hole in the Rock Scenic Helicopter Flight - 20 minutes

By Salt Air

Admire a bird's-eye view of the picturesque Bay of Islands with great vistas over the 144 islands aboard a scenic helicopter flight. Take in the beautiful

Duration: 20m

Island Adventure Cliffs & Caves Cruise

By GreatSights

Discover one of New Zealand's most breathtaking sights during a cruise to glimpse the Bay of Islands—a watery region that's home to more than 140 islands.

Duration: 2h 30m

How to get to Northland

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