Karekare Beach is a remote and dramatic black sand beach located south of Piha in the Waitakere Ranges. It is known for its
wild atmosphere, powerful waves, and untouched natural surroundings.
Surrounded by cliffs, dunes, and native bush, Karekare Beach feels more isolated than nearby Piha. The beach has featured in
films and remains a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.
For travelers, Karekare Beach offers a raw coastal experience, ideal for scenic walks, photography, and enjoying New
Zealand’s rugged west coast
- 👣 Walk along the expansive black sand beach for a wild, remote experience ✨
- 🌊 Enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery featuring the “Watchman” rock 🏔️
- 📸 Capture stunning landscape photography of the mist-shrouded cliffs 🖼️
- ⛲ Visit the nearby Karekare Falls, accessible via a flat 5-minute walk 🌿
- 🧘 Experience the peace of one of Auckland’s most secluded surf beaches 🌬️
- 🚗 Drive from Auckland via Scenic Drive and the winding Karekare Road 🛣️
- 🅿️ Use the public parking lots located near the beach and picnic areas 🏁
- 👣 Follow the easy track from the car park through the forest to the sand 🗺️
- 🚩 Only swim between the red and yellow flags when lifeguards are present 🏊
- ⚠️ Stay alert and keep well back from the shoreline during high surf 🌊
- 🧥 Bring a jacket to shield yourself from the brisk Tasman Sea winds 🌬️
- 🧼 Use the cleaning stations at forest tracks to protect native kauri trees 🌲
- 10:30 AM – Arrive at Karekare and park near the Pōhutukawa Glade 🚗
- 11:00 AM – Take a long walk along the black sand beach toward the south 🚶
- 12:30 PM – Walk inland to visit the falls and enjoy a picnic in the glade 🥪
- 02:30 PM – Drive back toward Piha or return to Auckland via the Scenic Drive 🏙️
