Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Travel

Escape to the Most Drool-Worthy New Zealand Beaches this Spring

By

best beaches new zealand
Image used with permission by copyright holder
We’re barely into the start of spring in the U.S., but, if you live in one of the 48 states (damn you, Florida and Hawaii!) where snow is a real possibility, chances are good you’re already dreaming of sun, surf, and warmer climes. As if you needed another reason to visit New Zealand, the country is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here are five of our favorites.

For Surfers: Piha

Best Beaches in the winter in New Zealand
Image courtesy of 100% Pure New Zealand Image used with permission by copyright holder

Situated less than an hour from Auckland, the black sand beach at Piha is arguably the best surf beach in New Zealand. This beach isn’t for the faint of heart as large; constant swells and craggy shoreline can prove dangerous for beginners. Back on solid ground, travelers can explore a beautiful waterfall hike, the area’s dramatic cliffs, and even abseil Piha Canyon.

Recommended Videos

For Bird Lovers: Muriwai Beach

Image courtesy of 100% Pure New Zealand Image used with permission by copyright holder

The black sand of Muriwai Beach stretches for roughly 40 miles, making it a worthy destination in its own right. However, the majority of visitors come for the bird-watching, specifically the beach’s large gannet colonies. Every year, from August to March, approximately 1,200 pairs of gannets make their nest on one of two craggy islands just offshore. The birds are loud, large (with a wingspan of more than six feet), and ungainly, making the colony incredibly entertaining to watch.

Related

For Chilling: The Coromandel Peninsula

The Coromandel Peninsula
Sleeping God Canyon/Image courtesy of 100% Pure New Zealand Image used with permission by copyright holder

The Coromandel is the place to go for kiwis on vacation. The North Island area offers more than 250 miles of unspoiled beaches not far from Auckland. The vast white sand expanse is perfect for relaxing and stretching out on your own uncrowded patch of beach. When you’re ready for something more exciting, head inland to the mountains for waterfall hiking and canyoneering in Sleeping God Canyon.

For Hikers: Abel Tasman National Park

abel tasman national park
Image courtesy of 100% Pure New Zealand. Image used with permission by copyright holder

Abel Tasman National Park may be New Zealand’s smallest, but there’s no shortage of waterfront hikes. Every trail is a short walk to cool off with a dip or a snorkel amid the area’s calm, cool waters. The coastline here follows the extreme north edge of South Island and is a great place to spot fur seals and dolphins playing just offshore.

For Divers: Poor Knights Islands

poor knights island
Poor Knights Island (Photo: Steve Shattuck/Flickr) Image used with permission by copyright holder

Situated in the far north of North Island, The Poor Knights Islands are remote, rugged, and breathtaking. The tiny area is frequently ranked among the world’s top dive destinations. With its rough, sun-soaked waters, rich kelp forests, and many caves to explore, they offer no shortage of underwater adventure opportunities.

Images courtesy of 100% Pure New Zealand.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Mike Richard
Mike Richard
Contributor
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South…
You’ll soon need a visa to visit this incredible country
Be sure to add getting a visa into your travel plans for this country
Panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro Mike Swigunski via Unsplash

When you want to experience it all, Brazil delivers in every way. Take in the views of Rio de Janeiro, with its mix of mountains and cityscapes. Sample flavorful, satisfying cuisine like Vatapá stew, containing shrimp, ground peanuts, coconut milk, and herbs. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Atlantic Forest contains nearly 900 bird species.

Read more
There’s an underwater waterfall in this island nation
This stunning optical illusion is a sight to be seen
Underwater Waterfall

Situated in the Indian Ocean approximately 1,200 miles southeast of Africa, sits the gorgeous Mauritius. This picturesque country is known for its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Mauritius is also home to one of the most captivating natural wonders on Earth– the Mauritius Underwater Waterfall. This beautiful optical illusion has fascinated visitors and travelers alike for years. 

Despite its name, this phenomenon isn’t actually a waterfall in the traditional sense. Instead, it’s an optical illusion created by sand and sediment deposits on the ocean floor, paired with the unique underwater topography of the area. 
The formation of the underwater waterfall

Read more
Here’s how much it will cost you to charter a Four Seasons private jet
four seasons jet in the sky

Want to take luxury travel to new heights? Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts is offering the opportunity to charter their custom-designed private jet for a limited time in 2024. But this exclusive experience comes with an eye-watering price tag.
The sky-high costs

For approximately $115,000 per day, up to 48 guests can enjoy the ultimate in personalized air travel aboard the Four Seasons private jet. This Airbus A321neoLR aircraft has been outfitted with 48 flatbed leather seats, a luxurious lounge area, and an exceptional in-flight dining experience curated by an executive chef.

Read more