Our Top 5: The most beautiful beaches on New Zealand's North Island
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As New Zealand is an island nation, our absolute favorite route on our road trip naturally took us right along the coast. For us, that meant breathtaking views, exciting viewpoints, and the most magical sunrises and sunsets we have ever seen!
We simply love spending time at the beach, and we tried to be by the sea almost every day. Whether we arrived there after a long hike or rolled our van directly onto the beach to camp there – most of the time, we found ourselves in a little hidden paradise. And more often than not, we had this little patch of land all to ourselves.
Today, we are taking you along to the breathtaking nature of New Zealand's North Island. Here are our top 5 of the most beautiful beaches. We are more than happy to share these absolute highlights with you, so that you can fall in love with them just as we did!
1. Castlepoint Beach
Located right on the east coast, Castlepoint Beach is our absolute number 1. We found this place by chance through a camping app. There is a really cool lighthouse there, which sits majestically on the cliffs. It may not be the typical beach for sunbathing, but the rugged, natural beauty of this place is simply magical.
Funny tip: You can watch the Castlepoint lighthouse anytime via a livestream on the internet (perfect for showing your family live where you are currently wandering around!).
2. Sandy Bay Beach
Our second favorite is Sandy Bay Beach. A wonderfully peaceful place, which lies in a small bay and is therefore wonderfully protected from the wind. There are even toilets and picnic tables here, making it the perfect spot for a really relaxed beach and vanlife day.
3. Hahei Beach
Further up on the Coromandel Peninsula lies Hahei Beach, our number 3. Yes, it is a bit more touristy here because of the famous Cathedral Cove nearby, but the crystal-clear, bright blue water is worth every visit.
Our insider tip: Be sure to visit the public toilets there – they have a huge glass window with probably the best view you will ever have in such a place!
4. Waikanae Beach
Down on the west coast, near Wellington, you will find Waikanae Beach. An incredibly long, beautiful sandy beach. It is the perfect place for an endless beach walk at sunset or an afternoon to relax and unwind.
5. Whirinaki Bluff
Back on the east coast, Whirinaki Bluff awaits you. The special thing here: The sand is pitch black! It may not be the best place for swimming, but the black sand in contrast to the white waves and this incomparable rugged beauty make it the perfect backdrop for spectacular coastal photos.
Take a piece of New Zealand home with you
After exploring the North Island for two months, these many beaches really left a lasting impression on us. Every single one has its own unique charm, and we hope that you will soon be able to discover these natural wonders for yourself.
If you want to bring the salty feeling of New Zealand and its rugged coasts directly home with you, be sure to check out our jewelry with the iridescent New Zealand paua shell (abalone). A little piece of the ocean that will accompany you on your own adventures!