One of the longest stretches of beach in all of New Zealand, Ninety Mile Beach is a prime destination for a summer beach trip. The expansive stretch of sand offers an array of experiences and adventures, from sandboarding and surf casting to cultural sites and excellent local dining. Each area along the beach has its own distinctive personality and appeal, all benefitting from the picturesque coast. Whether you’re planning a family trip with the kids to play on the beach, an adventure holiday for water sports and treks or a romantic retreat with sunbathing and nightlife, you can find it in Ninety Mile Beach. Learn more about a trip to Ninety Mile Beach to see what it has in store.
Things to do in Ninety Mile Beach
Ninety Mile Beach stretches from just past Kaitaia to Cape Reinga along the Aupouri Peninsula. Along that stretch, you’ll find numerous things to see and do with the whole family, from surfing and trekking to nightlife and sightseeing. Find out what you can expect from a holiday in Ninety Mile Beach.
Water sports and activities for the kids
Ninety Mile Beach offers a playground of soft sand and seas for all types of fun. Fishing is one of the most popular activities in Ninety Mile Beach, especially with the native species like gummy shark, elephant shark, flathead, snapper and salmon offshore. Some of the more remote beach areas offer the best fishing for kids, such as Pettmans Beach and McGaurans Beach. Ninety Mile Beach also has dramatic dunes that are perfect for sandboarding down the slopes. Other fun activities include golf, surfing, diving and clam digging with the little ones.
Family sightseeing
Ninety Mile Beach is home to unique sights and experiences for the whole family. The Mathews Vintage Cars & Farm Machinery Museum boasts a massive collection of vehicles and historical artefacts spanning New Zealand’s history. You could also take a group walking tour of Bay of Islands to learn more about the local history and see the off-the-beaten-track attractions.
Historic tours in Cape Reinga
Located near Ninety Mile Beach, Cape Reinga offers numerous historic sites and outdoor experiences for fun with the whole family. The lighthouse at Cape Reinga is an iconic beacon constructed in 1941 and offers stunning coastal views. From the lighthouse point, you can see the spot where the waves of the Pacific Ocean crash into the waves of the Tasman Sea. In town, you’ll find a variety of local eateries with delicious seafood and local delicacies.
90 Mile Beach accommodation
From conventional hotel stays to sprawling lodges that accommodate huge groups, Ninety Mile Beach has an array of accommodation options to make your stay convenient and comfortable. Learn more about accommodation in Ninety Mile Beach.
Family holiday homes and cottages
Whether you want privacy or you want to stay close to the water, holiday homes and cottages are a great option. You can find cottages, villas, cabins and holiday homes within a short walking distance or right on the sand, so you can spend as much time as you want enjoying the beach with the kids. Holiday homes are all self-contained, so you’ll have a full kitchen, spacious rooms, laundry facilities and child-friendly amenities like toys and games to help you make the most of your trip. You can find large home rentals for the whole family or book a cosy cottage for a couple’s or solo trip.
Hotels
Hotels offer versatile options for every type of traveller, all with the benefits of hotel services and amenities. You can choose between serviced rooms or self-contained apartment units, so you can be as pampered or self-sufficient as you wish. Hotels are available on the waterfront for stunning beach views and beach access. If you have a group, you can book a room or apartment with all the space you need for the kids or your friends.
Group lodging for groups and families
If you’re travelling with a large group of friends, a big family or a few families, group lodging is the best option for your stay in Ninety Mile Beach. You’ll have your pick of surf lodges and beach lodges with space for 12 or more people, all within steps of the sand. Lodges have a lot of variety as well, from shared bunkrooms to beachfront master bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. Lodges are self-contained, so you’ll have all the convenient amenities of a home away from home.