Wandering which beaches in New Zealand to explore and how to reach different New Zealand beaches? Check out this travel guide that covers some of the most beautiful spots in the country.
The gorgeous and rugged landscape of New Zealand is home to some of the most incredible and breathtaking beaches and shorelines you have ever seen.
From the spectacular Wharakiki Beach to the untamed Makara Beach, the shoreline is blessed with a plethora of beaches.
You can soak in the gorgeous sunsets, catch a wave when surfing, or enjoy leisurely stroll with soft sand in your toes. New Zealand beaches offer a perfect travel experience when you just want to have some sun and sand.
Here are a few of the best beaches in New Zealand that you can find.
Beaches in New Zealand
Wharakiki Beach
Head to a car rental and take a drive to the spectacular Wharakiki Beach.
Found in the North of the Southern Island, Wharakiki can be accessed by a quick 20-minute walk along the shoreline, which is exceptionally photo-worthy on its own.
While the beach is too dangerous for swimming, that isn’t the reason to visit here. There are no bells and whistles, just simple, breathtaking beauty and it is a beach that is worth spending a few hours enjoying.
New Chums Beach
New Chums is one of the highly rated beaches in New Zealand, and one visit here will let you know why.
Found on the Coromandel Peninsula, New Chums is arguably the best beach in the country, and if you can only visit one, it should be here.
The turquoise water, bright, white sand, and the gorgeous forest that surrounds it all combine to create a slice of heaven that you will struggle to leave.
Matapouri Beach
Found just outside of Auckland, Matapouri Beach is one of the many exceptionally beautiful and tranquil beaches you will find on your way up North.
Matapouri stands out from the crowd thanks to its sprawling sand and the almost unbelievable peace and quiet it offers.
Surrounded by jagged rocks and rolling dunes, Matapouri looks like something right out of a movie. Plus, the small and cosy town of Matapouri has a couple of B&Bs, allowing you to stay over for a few nights and explore the entire area.
Whatipu Beach
Found close to Auckland, Whatipu Beach is famed for its black sand and gorgeous waves.
While it can be very windy at times, even stopping to enjoy your lunch in the car while you watch the water is well worth the effort.
The best part of Whatipu is the many coves you can find, and when you visit on the right day, you can easily find a calm and empty spot for you to enjoy by yourself.
Totaranui Beach
Found in the incredible Abel Tasman National Park, Totaranui Beach is arguably the best beach on the South Island.
Once you have driven through the park and taken in all the flora and fauna it has to offer, you are rewarded by reaching Totaranui.
The beach is massive and you can easily find a spot away from any crowds. Combined with the gentle waves, it is the ideal spot to take the family for a day of beach games, swimming, and an unforgettable beach picnic.
Rotoroa Island
Rotoroa Island can be found a short ferry ride from Auckland, and has four spectacular beaches for you to enjoy. Ladies Bay, Men’s Bay, Mai Mai Bay, and Cable Bay all offer soft sandy shorelines and gorgeous waves that are perfect for swimming and surfing.
On top of the amazing beaches, Rotoroa also serves as a nature sanctuary and is home to many native species of plants and animals, including the elusive kiwi.
Makara Beach
Found 30 minutes outside of Wellington, Makara Beach is a wild and untamed spot, and one of the best-kept secrets in the country. There are also plenty of walking trails for you to choose from, allowing you to take in all the beauty the area has to offer.
While the beach is famous for being quite cold no matter the time of year, don’t let that put you off. Throw on a warm jacket and pack a picnic; the cold weather won’t be enough to make you leave.
Te Pukatea Beach
Back in the Abel Tasman National Park, Te Pukatea Beach is a smaller beach, and can only be reached by walking trail, but that doesn’t mean it should be skipped.
It is surrounded by forest, it is secluded, and considering many don’t make the trek, a peaceful beach afternoon is almost guaranteed.
Whites Beach
Another beach that requires a trek is Whites Beach. Found near Auckland, the beach is surrounded by jagged rocks and trees, and looks like something you would find in Jurassic Park, let alone New Zealand.
There are no facilities at Whites, so be sure to take all your trash back with you, but this beach serves as the perfect spot for lunch or a few sunset drinks with family and friends.
Hot Water Beach
Finally, Hot Water Beach in Coromandel isn’t exactly a lesser-known spot, and is popular with both locals and tourists. As the name suggests, this beach is famed for its warm water, but you’re going to have to do some digging to enjoy it.
Under the sand, you will find hot water waiting to be discovered; therefore, bring a shovel and take the time to dig your own, natural hot tub.
In conclusion, New Zealand is home to some truly exceptional beaches, and whether you want to walk to find them or take a quick drive out of the city, you are sure to find one that will be one of the highlights of your adventure.
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