Plan a seaside holiday with Hibiscus Coast beaches
The Hibiscus Coast is a coastal paradise of beautiful beaches and pristine waters for your beach holiday. The coast stretches along the Hauraki Gulf in the Auckland Region and features an abundance of beach areas and charming coastal communities with attractions and seaside amenities. You can have it all at the Hibiscus Coast’s beaches, from water sports and adventure to cultural attractions and family fun. Whether you want to make memories with the kids, have a romantic beach trip or enjoy thrilling activities on land and sea, the Hibiscus Coast’s diverse beaches are the ideal choice. Find out more about the best beaches on the Hibiscus Coast and plan your exciting seaside holiday.
Red Beach for family adventure
Named for the red shells that colour the sand, Red Beach is a lovely family beach with a quiet atmosphere. Families flock to the beach to let the kids play in the water while the adults relax on the sand. It’s also a popular spot for boogie boarding. The beach has shady picnic areas for enjoying a beach lunch. You may also enjoy a romantic evening watching the sunset from the shore.
Tindalls Bay for wildlife sightings
Tindalls Bay is a white-sand beach surrounded by gorgeous pohutukawa trees and an abundance of wildlife. The beach is popular for boating, stand-up paddleboarding and other water sports. You’re also likely to see dolphins and whales frolicking offshore. The ice cream shop close to the beach is perfect for a quick snack on the sand.
Orewa Beach for watersports
Boasting 3 kilometres of coastline, Orewa Beach is the perfect place for a beach retreat on the Hibiscus Coast. The beach offers many water sports, including kitesurfing and windsurfing, and beach activities like flying kites and beachcombing. The kids will also like the large playground at the edge of the sand. Families like the beach for its gentle shallows where kids can wade and swim safely. Plenty of eateries can be found near the beach for snacks and full meals.
Arkles Bay for beach picnics
If you want a secluded beach experience, Arkles Bay offers a sheltered strip of sand with gentle waters. You’ll find rocky areas to explore on both sides and a quiet river where you can canoe, kayak or fish. The beach has several grassy areas where you can picnic or let the kids play. For refreshments, there’s a nearby cafe that offers snacks, meals, sweet treats, gifts and souvenirs.

Army Bay for family amenities
Nestled near the end of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, Army Bay is a remote beach area with a lot of facilities and opportunities for activities on land and sea. The beach has soft sand for sunbathing and beachcombing, excellent fishing areas, public picnic spots in the shade and nearby washrooms. You’ll find shops nearby for food, supplies and picnic and beach equipment, as well as eateries if you want to dine on the waterfront.
Stanmore Bay for kid-friendly activities
Known for its sunsets and facilities, Stanmore Bay is a favourite of locals on the Hibiscus Coast. The beach has an abundance of options for activities, including a skate park, soccer fields, a boat club and a playground. You also have numerous pubs and restaurants to choose from behind the beach for snacks, ice cream and meals.

Little Manly for whale watching
Renowned for its dolphin and whale watching, Little Manly is a popular beach for sunbathing and relaxing by the water. You’ll find a lot of adventure at Little Manly, including cliff jumping and surfing, but families can bring the kids and have a fun beach day. In addition to soft sand and gentle surf, the beach has rock pools that the kids can explore when the tide goes out.
Manly Beach for fun with your dog
Manly Beach is located in the heart of Whangaparaoa and is one of the most popular travel destinations on the Hibiscus Coast. The white-sand beach offers many amenities for families, including tennis courts, grassy areas, surf clubs, boat launches and nearby shops and eateries. During the summer season, Manly Beach is dog friendly and offers parklands to play with your pup.