Auckland’s Best Beaches
Auckland’s Best Beaches
Source: Pixabay
If you were to ask anyone from New Zealand, what some of the highlights of Auckland are, it is highly unlikely that the region’s beaches wouldn’t get a mention. Auckland beaches are some of the most beautiful places to visit in New Zealand, and many are located only a short drive from the city centre. Not only do these beaches provide stunning scenery for everyone to enjoy, but for anyone on a tight budget, a visit to one of the many beaches can be one of the best free things to do in Auckland.
Missions Bay
Source: Wikimedia Commons by Researchassistent102
A large percentage of the population live in or close to the city, but due to the wonderful geographic location of Auckland, there are plenty of incredible city beaches to visit. Missions Bay is simply stunning and is renowned as one of the top attractions in Auckland.
The beach itself benefits from that beautiful picture postcard white sand, and if you are interested in finishing off your relaxing day at a nice restaurant, you are spoilt for choice. Whether you are after a romantic stroll with your partner at sunset or are simply looking for fun things to do in Auckland, Missions Bay should certainly be on your list of stunning beaches to visit.
Takapuna
Source: By Mark [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Takapuna Beach is another stunning location that offers a few different alternatives to those of Missions Bay for instance. Perhaps you are on a tight budget and are looking for cheap things to do in Auckland. The heritage trail which runs between Takapuna to Milford is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the picturesque scenery and giving yourself some time to relax. In today’s busy world, you will be pleasantly surprised at how relaxing something as simple as an outdoors walk can be, and of course, it doesn’t cost a penny.
Muriwai Beach
Source: By original uploader JShook at English Wikipedia (Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons.)
Visiting this beach is a relaxing pastime that can help you recharge your batteries while getting some healthy fresh air. Located under an hours drive from the city centre, visitors to Auckland should definitely look at hiring a rental car and making the trip, which includes sweeping views of the Tasman Sea and the West Coast. The beach’s famous black volcanic sand will impress and inspire in equal measure, but perhaps one of the most exciting attractions in Auckland is the famous cliff top gannet colony.
As long as you make sure to visit between the months of August to March, you will be able to show your children the amazing sight of 1200 pairs of gannets nesting. This is truly a sight to behold and is, without a doubt, one of the top things to do in Auckland.
Devonport
Source: By Ingolfson at English Wikipedia (Original text: Uploader.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Devonport is a little historic village, that is surrounded by lots of small more intimate sandy beaches. A novel experience for everyone is simply getting there. You can jump aboard the ferry in central Auckland, and within 12 minutes you will find yourself arriving in Devonport. If you are interested in history or exploring, one of the more unusual activities in Auckland is to explore the various underground tunnels.
It is also advisable to visit the volcanic cone, which expands out into the harbour, providing visitors who take the time to explore the most amazing and dynamic 360-degree views, over the Hauraki Gulf and the city. These little beaches and the stunning views make Devonport one of the most diverse and yet interesting beaches on our list.
Hauraki Gulf Islands
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Whether you are interested in seeing dolphins or visiting the island of wine, the Hauraki Gulf Islands offer a little bit of everything. The beaches have miles and miles of golden sand, and there is so much to see and do. Every island has something unique and special about it, and you are virtually guaranteed to have a wonderful time.
Regarding the financial cost implications, visiting these beaches and enjoying the various sights and sounds make a visit to the beach without doubt one of the top things to do in Auckland.
The beauty of Auckland is that no matter where you go in the city, you are never far from a beach. If you’re planning on flying into Auckland, make sure to plan your trips carefully and be aware of the various sights and sounds that each beach provides. In our opinion, and admittedly we may be a little biased, Auckland is home to some of the most stunning beaches anywhere in the world.
Trips to any of the beaches mentioned above can tick a lot of different boxes. Just remember that even though you might be looking for free things to do in Auckland, it does not mean that your day is going to be boring, In fact, provided you choose the right beach to visit, it is entirely possible that by the end of your trip you might be adding one of the beaches above to your list of top things to do in Auckland.