New Zealands is famous for its gorgeous beaches; picking the most beautiful ones can be tricky!
If you ask any Kiwi about their favorite beach, you’re bound to get various answers, and that’s part of the fun. This beautiful corner of the world has everything from pristine white sandy shores that make you feel like you’re in a tropical paradise to striking black sandy beaches that showcase the country’s volcanic history, along with rugged coastlines that are simply breathtaking.
Hot Water Beach on the lovely Coromandel Peninsula is one beach you can’t miss. Here, you can dig your own hot pool in the sand, thanks to the geothermal springs bubbling underneath.
To help you explore this incredible coastal wonderland, I’m excited to share ten amazing standout beaches every season. Each one has its own unique vibe, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand. Get ready for some unforgettable experiences!
Ninety Miles Beach
This unique beach is one of the most amazing beaches in New Zealand. Its iconic name that’s sure to capture your attention. But here’s a fun fact – despite its name, it’s not actually 90 miles long! Shocking, right?
Ninety Mile Beach is a unique and memorable destination that attracts people for various activities. With 88 kilometers of shoreline, it’s no surprise that surfcasting is one of the most popular activities here. Whether you’re a regular fisherman or a once-a-year visitor for the annual five-day fishing competition, the Beach offers an excellent opportunity to catch some snapper.
It’s like the Beach has no end.
The Beach is also known for its spectacular sunsets and world-class surfing break. There is truly something for everyone at Ninety Mile Beach.
Doubtless Bay
Doubtless Bay is a beautiful spot you won’t want to miss when visiting New Zealand!
Located on the east coast of the Northland Region, just northeast of Kaitaia, it’s a paradise for beach lovers. With a variety of stunning beaches like Tokerau Beach, Taipa, Cable Bay, Coopers Beach, and Mangonui Harbor, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find charming rocky headlands that add to the bay’s appeal.
Each beach has its unique vibe, and the water is crystal clear, perfect for a refreshing swim. The soft, luxurious sand is a lovely caramel and white, making it a great relaxing place. Plus, there’s so much marine life to discover!
We had a fantastic time fishing, sailing, swimming, and snorkeling.
So, if you’re planning your trip, don’t forget to include Doubtless Bay on your itinerary—it’s sure to be a highlight of your adventure!
Mount Maunganui Beach
Mount Maunganui Beach is such a gem in the Bay of Plenty region! With its gorgeous clear blue waters and soft golden sands, it’s no wonder this beach is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. The coastline seems to go on forever. It is perfect for swimming, surfing, or just lounging in the sun on the beautiful white sand.
The lush green hillsides surrounding the beach add to its charm. It creats a picturesque setting that you can’t help but love. We had the best time soaking up the sunshine, splashing around in the ocean, and simply enjoying the beach vibe. Our day at Mount Maunganui Beach was absolutely unforgettable, and I can’t wait to go back!
Castlepoint Beach
Castlepoint Beach Lagoon is an excellent destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. With its beautiful reef, peaceful lagoon, stunning sand dunes, and the iconic Castle Rock, this location offers a diverse range of natural features to explore. Take advantage of the two lovely walking tracks available in the area for those seeking adventure.
The beach lagoon at Castlepoint boasts a breathtaking landscape, and the uniquely shaped reef significantly enhances its charm.
We enjoyed observing fur seals lounging on the rocks and swimming nearby during our visit. Their curiosity added an enjoyable aspect to our experience!
We also encountered a variety of seabirds, including white-fronted terns and red-billed gulls, especially at the southern end of the reef. It was unfortunate that we missed seeing any black shags during our time there.
Overall, Castlepoint Beach Lagoon is a wonderful place to appreciate nature. Also to observe wildlife up close, making it a highly recommended spot for nature enthusiasts.
Pokohino Beach
During our summer vacation on the North Island, we stumbled upon the most amazing hidden gem—Hokohino Beach! You won’t believe how fantastic it is! With a cool cave to explore, a rock jumping spot at the southern end, and calm waters that hardly ever have waves, it’s the perfect place for a fun day out.
Getting to this beautiful beach is part of the adventure!
Just take Normans Access Road through a lovely forestry area, and you’ll find a car park. After that, it’s only a 20-minute walk down to the beach, so wear comfy shoes and pack some snacks and drinks! Just a heads up—the road can be rough and gravelly, which might be a challenge for some vehicles. The hike is a little steep and can get tricky if it’s raining. So keep an eye out and watch your step, especially where trees have fallen across the path!
Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by Hokohino Beach, nestled in a peaceful bay surrounded by gorgeous forest. It’s a lovely spot to relax, whether you want to swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun while enjoying the beautiful views.
You’re going to absolutely love it!
Wanaka
Wanaka is a charming town in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including stunning mountain vistas and tranquil lakes. The iconic Lake Wanaka, often reflecting the surrounding peaks, is a sight to behold, especially during sunrise and sunset when the colors of the sky illuminate the water. The town is dotted with quaint cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant art galleries, contributing to its inviting atmosphere.
The locals here are exceptionally welcoming and friendly, creating a sense of community that makes visitors feel right at home as if they’ve known them forever.
Wanaka offers diverse activities throughout the year, appealing to all seasons. In winter, the nearby ski resorts, such as Treble Cone and Cardrona, draw snow enthusiasts with their thrilling slopes and breathtaking views. During the summer, outdoor lovers can enjoy hiking, biking, and water sports or simply swim and relax by the lake.
With such a vibrant array of experiences, Wanaka remains a lively and engaging destination for travelers year-round.
West Coast, South Island
The rugged coastline is perfect for those invigorating beach walks you love, but you might be pleasantly surprised by the relaxing spots it offers, too!
In the subtropical north, you’ll find palm trees lining the golden sands, while the sheltered bays in the south are just right for gentle surf breaks, making it great for everyone, no matter your skill level. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare wildlife in different areas—nature lovers will be in heaven!
Carters Beach is the spot for you if you want a safe swimming place! It’s perfect for a refreshing dip and the starting point for Kawatiri Beach, another safe spot for surfers. And don’t forget to check out Pororari Lagoon, known for its calm waters and stunning views—perfect for a relaxing day out!
Make time to visit Hokitika for its fantastic summer driftwood festival, and treat yourself to fish and chips at Dulcie’s—so delicious! If you want to stay nearby, the Beachfront Hotel is a lovely option by the waves.
The Heaphy Track is a fantastic hike for those ready for a more extended adventure. It’s surrounded by steep cliffs and beautiful rainforests, making it a great picnic spot. If you’re in the mood for a shorter trail, try the Truman Track. It’s just 600 meters long and offers breathtaking coastal views, plus it leads to a beautiful beach with a waterfall.
Enjoy your adventures!
New Brighton Beach, Christchurch
This beach is such a delightful seaside town, and it’s the perfect spot for a fun family day out! There are many activities for everyone, like Championship Adventure Golf and Escape Fort Perch, a super cool escape room in the historic Fort Perch Rock.
What I love about this town is its lovely vibe, similar to many charming little towns in New Zealand. The beach here stretches for an impressive 18 kilometers (11 miles) and includes South New Brighton, New Brighton, and North New Brighton. The sand is dark and thick, just like the beach in Busan, South Korea, where I used to run with my military unit. The sandy surface here is solid and really great for running!
One of the best things about this beach is that it doesn’t have a lot of rocks or seashell fragments lying around, and the gentle slope means there aren’t any big waves crashing in. The sound of the seagulls mixed with the waves creates a peaceful atmosphere.
So, why not come and give it a try? You might just love it!
Akaroa Beach
This beach is a charming hidden gem on New Zealand’s South Island that combines French-influenced culture with abundant, vibrant marine life.
This picturesque town features an array of delightful cafes and restaurants that celebrate French cuisine, offering a variety of pastries, crepes, and seafood dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of France. Strolling through Akaroa, visitors can admire the beautifully preserved streets, which still retain their original French names, such as Rue Lavaud and Rue de Montaigne, adding to the town’s unique character.
One of Akaroa’s standout attractions is the opportunity to see Hector’s Dolphin, the rarest dolphin species in the world, known for its distinctive rounded dorsal fin. This idyllic location provides numerous fun activities, including kayaking in the stunning harbor and swimming with these playful dolphins, offering an unforgettable experience for marine enthusiasts.
Only an hour’s drive from Christchurch, Akaroa’s accessibility makes it easy for travelers to enjoy its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage while escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether wandering the quaint streets, savoring delicious local cuisine, or engaging with the unique wildlife, Akaroa promises an enriching experience for all who visit.
Moeraki Boulders
Moeraki Beach is renowned for its stunning and unique boulders fascinatingly spherical stones scattered across the sandy shoreline. Each of these impressive boulders weighs several tonnes and can reach heights of up to two meters, creating a striking sight against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Scientists believe these boulders are calcite concretions that formed around 65 million years ago, involving the gradual accumulation of minerals around a nucleus buried beneath the earth.
The best time to appreciate the boulders is during low tide when they are fully exposed and easily accessible. You will find convenient parking nearby, making it easy to stop by for a visit. Additionally, there’s a charming café on the beach where you can enjoy refreshments while enjoying the breathtaking views.
Moeraki Beach embodies the quintessential Kiwi beach experience, characterized by its stunning natural beauty, rich geological history, and welcoming atmosphere.
It is a must-see destination for anyone exploring New Zealand’s coastline.
“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”
— Jacques Yves Cousteau