Karekare Beach

Karekare Beach offers families a stunning black sand paradise with dramatic cliffs, natural rock pools, and calmer swimming areas than neighboring Piha. This secluded west coast gem provides adventure-seeking families with opportunities for rock pooling, beachcombing, and exploring the iconic Karekare Falls just a short walk from the beach. The quieter atmosphere and spectacular scenery make it perfect for families wanting a more peaceful beach experience.

• ✓Dramatic black sand beach surrounded by native bush and towering cliffs
• ✓Rock pools teeming with sea life perfect for junior explorers at low tide
• ✓Karekare Falls walking track with kid-friendly waterfall destination
• ✓Quieter, less crowded alternative to nearby Piha Beach
• ✓Famous filming location from The Piano, adding a touch of movie magic

1. 1.Visit at low tide to access the best rock pools and more beach area for kids to explore safely. Check tide times before leaving Auckland.
2. 2.Pack everything you need including food, water, and beach gear. There are no shops, cafes, or facilities at the beach itself, and the nearest stores are back in Piha or Titirangi.
3. 3.Take the 20-minute walk to Karekare Falls before hitting the beach. The track starts from the carpark and kids love the waterfall reward at the end.
4. 4.Supervise children closely near the water. West coast beaches have dangerous rip currents and unpredictable surf. Swim only in the designated safer areas between the flags when lifeguards are present.
5. 5.The drive from Auckland takes about 50 minutes and involves steep, winding roads. Take motion sickness precautions for kids prone to carsickness.

Visit on weekday mornings during summer (December to February) for the best weather and fewer crowds. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the beach before afternoon winds pick up. Avoid visiting during or after heavy rain as the access road can be treacherous.

Free entry and parking available but spaces are limited. No facilities like bathrooms, showers, or food vendors on site, so come fully prepared. The beach is not patrolled year-round, so swimming supervision is entirely your responsibility outside of peak summer months.

Best visited during summer months (December to March) when weather is warmest and lifeguards may be present on busy days. Winter can be very cold and windy with rough seas unsuitable for swimming. The beach is accessible year-round but conditions vary dramatically by season.

Pack a picnic as there are no food options at Karekare. The nearest cafes and restaurants are in Piha (10 minutes drive) including Piha Cafe for fish and chips and burgers, or head back to Titirangi (25 minutes) for more family dining options.