Did you know New Zealand has the ninth-longest coastline in the world? With 9,300 miles to enjoy, it comes as no surprise that the incredible destination is home to no shortage of equally magnificent beaches. And while the Land of the Long White Cloud has more sunny stretches of sand than we can list here, these are 10 of its most beloved.
Abel Tasman National Park
Located in the country’s Nelson Tasman region, Abel Tasman National Park is a thriving coastal paradise that doubles as New Zealand’s smallest national park. Travelers looking to tour this stunning natural area will find themselves spoiled for choice as its abundant cruises, heli-tours and sailings make it easy to explore by land, sea and sky. In addition to its wide selection of exciting activities, Abel Tasman is famous for its 37-mile coastal track, calm waters and peaceful beaches, of which it has six: Anchorage, Torrent Bay, Bark Bay, Onetahuti, Awaroa and Totaranui. For the ultimate Abel Tasman experience, visitors are encouraged to spend the night at one of the park’s many comfortable onsite accommodations, including private lodges, hiking huts and campsites.
Cathedral Cove
Famed for the picturesque stone archway that inspired its name, Cathedral Cove is an impressive spot situated in the coastal town of Coromandel. Somewhat remote, most visitors access this natural wonder by boat or kayak. However, for those who don’t mind a long stroll, it can also be reached by foot via an hour-long walking trail at the north end of Hahei Beach. Once at the cove, New Zealanders recommend snapping a few photos beneath the massive arched cavern before heading to the nearby golden sand beach for a picnic and a swim.
Hokitika Beach Walk
For those who prefer a more active beach visit, the town of Hokitika, or “Cool Little Town,” as the locals call it, has the Hokitika Beach Walk, a 1.1-mile walking trail perfect for scouting driftwood, pebbles and pounamu (greenstone). The scenic section of black sand beach is a favorite spot for catching the sunrise and sunset by day and stargazing by night. It’s also home to the beloved Little Blue Penguin, a rare penguin species native to New Zealand, and offers incredible views of the surrounding mountainous landscape.
Koekohe Beach
Beachgoers preparing for a trip to New Zealand will surely encounter tales of the Moeraki Boulders, a series of strange spherical stones scattered across Koekohe Beach. Weighing several tons a piece and reaching heights of up to six feet, these mysterious formations played a role in Māori legend which says the boulders are gourds washed ashore from Āraiteuru, an ancient voyaging canoe believed to have wrecked upon the same shores many years ago. Today, scientists classify the Moeraki Boulders as calcite concretions dating back 65 million years, and, while perhaps less exciting, it doesn’t make them any less impressive. In addition to marveling at the bizarre geologic features, Koekohe Beach is also a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing.
Maunganui Beach
For “So Cal” vibes in Middle Earth, vacationers can head to The Mount, a laid-back surf town that doubles as the home of Maunganui Beach, one of New Zealand’s best spots for surfing, outdoor dining and seemingly endless strips of soft white sand. Speaking of the best, TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards have dubbed Maunganui Beach the “Best Beach in New Zealand” not once, not twice, but more than six times and the popular attraction is consistently ranked among the top beaches in the world. Also adding to its appeal is Maunganui Beach’s proximity to Mount Maunganui (also called Mauao), a favorite hiking spot with incredible views of the surrounding peninsula.
Maitai Bay
Situated in the Northland region of New Zealand, Maitai Bay provides the perfect backdrop for summer activities like swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and more. This sunny stretch of sand is a favorite escape among locals and travelers alike, and, for vinos, it also acts as a great jumping-off point for visits to Karikari Estate, the area’s famed vineyard and winery. When the sun starts to set, Maitai Bay is an incredible destination for stargazing, something travelers can easily do when they book an onsite campsite or make a reservation at nearby Carrington Estate.
Piha Beach
A different kind of beach vibe, Auckland’s Piha Beach is best known for its stunning black sand landscapes, crashing ocean waves and iconic Lion Rock, a towering formation said to resemble the big cat of the same name. Due to its powerful waves, Piha Beach is an ideal spot for surfers, the bravest of which flock to the area to conquer its unruly waters. In addition to surfing, Piha Beach attracts visitors in search of laid-back activities like picnicking, sunbathing and hiking to places like nearby Kitekite Falls.
Ninety Mile Beach
Travelers looking to channel their adventurous side need to look no further than Ninety Mile Beach, one of New Zealand’s premier destinations for exciting activities like bodyboarding, horseback riding, “blokarting” — an activity involving a locally-designed “land yacht” that resembles a sailboat on wheels— and “surfcasting” — aka shore fishing. Contrary to its name, Ninety Mile Beach is actually around 55 miles long, and the area is also popular for its campsites and eco-lodges where visitors are encouraged to spend the night.
Tāwharanui Regional Park
Less than an hour outside of Auckland, Tāwharanui Regional Park provides a peaceful solace from the hustle and bustle of everyday life; it also happens to be one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets. Here, the quiet park boasts a beautiful backdrop with its rolling hills, abundant wildlife, teeming rock pools and dreamy white sand making it the ultimate getaway for a relaxing afternoon. Like many New Zealand beaches, Tāwharanui Regional Park has options for overnight camping, it’s also only a 15-minute drive from Sculptureum, a garden, gallery and restaurant that’s worthy of a visit.
Wharariki Beach
One of the most photographed beaches in New Zealand’s Nelson Tasman region, people from around the globe flock to Wharariki Beach to experience its dramatic sandstone rock formations and adorable wildlife which includes the likes of seals and seabirds. While Wharariki is beautiful all times of day, travelers are encouraged to visit during low tide when they can stroll the area’s scenic coastline, exploring its many caverns, islands and towering sand dunes along the way. In addition to adventures by foot, horseback riding is also a sought-after attraction.
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