Imagine stepping away from Auckland’s hustle into a world where golden sand stretches for a kilometer, native birds call from regenerating bush, and the sparkling Hauraki Gulf unfolds before you. That’s Long Bay Regional Park, and honestly, it’s one of those places that makes you wonder why you haven’t been here sooner.
Just 20 minutes north of the city, this coastal paradise offers everything from gentle family strolls to proper hiking adventures. Whether you’re after a peaceful picnic spot, want to explore hidden coves, or need somewhere the kids can run wild safely, Long Bay delivers.
Jump on the Northern Motorway (State Highway 1), take the Long Bay exit, and follow the signs. Parking is free, which is always nice in Auckland! There are heaps of car parks dotted around, so you can choose your adventure level.
Regular buses run from the city – check the Auckland Transport app for times that work for you.
Time: 15-20 minutes | Distance: 1.1km | Vibe: Easy as
Perfect if: You’ve got little ones, need wheelchair access, or just want a peaceful wander
This lovely loop starts near the northern car park and takes you through the wetlands where you’ll spot pukeko (those striking blue-black birds) and probably some ducks that’ll make the kids giggle. The mature puriri trees along the way are absolute stunners.
Local tip: Early morning or late afternoon is when the birds are most active – and it’s cooler too!
Time: 45-75 minutes | Distance: 3.8km | Vibe: Moderate with some huffing and puffing
Perfect if: You want those Instagram-worthy views and don’t mind a bit of a climb
This is the walk everyone talks about, and for good reason. You’ll climb through farmland to clifftops that’ll make you forget you’re anywhere near a city. The views across the Hauraki Gulf are absolutely stunning – on a clear day, you can see forever.
Important stuff: Check the tides before you go. If you want to return via the rocks (which is pretty cool), you need half-tide or lower. Also, there’s a nudist beach on the way, just so you know what you’re getting into!
Safety note: The track to the old WWII pillbox sometimes closes when it gets too slippery. Check before you detour.
Time: 15-20 minutes | Distance: 1.6km | Vibe: Easy and green
Perfect if: You love native bush and bird sounds
This track winds through regenerating native forest and is like stepping into a green cathedral. The tea trees bloom beautifully, and the birdsong is incredible. It can get a bit muddy when it’s wet, but that’s just part of the charm.
Time: 2.5-4 hours | Distance: 9km | Vibe: Proper hiking
Perfect if: You want a full day out and have decent fitness
This is the big one, a proper coastal adventure that takes you through farmland, along clifftops, and down to the Okura River. You can even return along the coast if you’re confident and the tide’s right (and we mean really confident – this isn’t for beginners).
Timing is everything: If you’re doing the coastal return, you need to complete it within 2 hours of low tide. No exceptions, safety first!
This isn’t just any beach, it’s a proper 1km stretch of golden sand with gentle slopes that make it perfect for families. The water’s protected, so it’s usually calm enough for swimming, and at low tide, the beach gets so wide it’s like having your own private paradise.
Summer (Dec-Mar): Warmest water, perfect for proper swimming
High tide: Best depth for swimming
Low tide: Amazing for exploring rock pools and beach games
Kayaking: Launch right from the beach – easy as
Windsurfing: Great when there’s a decent breeze
Check the tide times before you come, it makes a huge difference to your day. Low tide is brilliant for exploring, high tide is perfect for swimming.
Modern playground: Right in the main area, so you can watch from your picnic spot
Safe creek: Vaughan Stream creates shallow pools at high tide, like nature’s own paddling pool
Massive grass areas: Perfect for ball games, frisbee, or just running around
BBQ spots: Book ahead for guaranteed space, or bring your own for designated areas
The creek mouth at high tide is absolutely perfect for toddlers, shallow, warm, and safe. Older kids love the freedom to explore the beach, and there’s enough space that everyone can spread out without feeling crowded.
If you’re planning to bring your dog, you need to know that Long Bay has pretty strict rules about this. It’s all about protecting the native birds that call this place home.
Honestly? You might want to consider Mairangi Bay, Browns Bay, or Orewa instead. They’re much more dog-friendly and still gorgeous beaches. Long Bay’s restrictions are pretty limiting if you want to spend the whole day there with your pet.
Back in 1862, the Vaughan family bought 600 hectares here and ran sheep for the next 100 years. Their beautiful homestead still stands, lovingly restored by the Torbay Historical Society. It’s a fascinating glimpse into what life was like when this area was all farmland.
The Ngāti Kahu iwi called this place home long before European settlement in the 1850s. They understood sustainable coastal living in ways we’re only just rediscovering.
During WWII, this coastline was heavily defended. You can still find the concrete pillbox remains if you take the bush track detour on the Granny’s Bay walk. It’s a sobering reminder of when New Zealand felt genuinely threatened by invasion.
This is when Long Bay really shines. The weather’s beautiful (15-20°C), the crowds haven’t arrived yet, and everything’s coming alive after winter. The native plants are blooming, birds are active, and you’ll actually find a decent parking spot.
Peak season for good reason – warmest weather (20-25°C) and perfect swimming conditions. Just be prepared for company! Weekends can feel like half of Auckland has had the same idea. Get there early if you want a BBQ spot.
Honestly, this might be the best time. The weather’s still lovely, the crowds have thinned out, and the light is absolutely magical for photos. Plus, you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself.
It’s cooler but still totally doable. Perfect if you love storm watching or just want some serious peace and quiet. The gulf views are often clearest in winter, and there’s something quite special about having this beautiful place almost to yourself.
Auckland’s coastal weather can change quickly. The sea breeze keeps it cooler than you might expect, and it can get quite windy. Rain makes the bush tracks muddy and the coastal walks potentially dangerous – maybe save those for another day.
The swimming here is generally very safe, but it’s still the ocean. Keep an eye on the kids, especially when the tide’s changing. Rip currents are rare but can happen during storms.
The initial tracks work well for wheelchairs and strollers, though there are some steeper bits. Beach access varies, some entry points are easier than others. All the facilities (toilets, parking) are accessible.
The coastal clifftop adventures aren’t going to work with mobility aids, but there’s still plenty to enjoy at beach level.
It’s pretty cool, proper restaurants, cafes, even a pub. There’s excellent Asian food, sushi, and casual dining all within walking distance of the southern park areas.
Long Bay is the gateway to Auckland’s amazing northern park system. If you love this place, you should definitely check out:
The 970-hectare Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve is pretty special. You can dive or snorkel here (it’s incredible underwater), but remember, no fishing in the reserve boundaries. If you see anyone taking fish or marine life, report it to DOC on 0800 362 468.
The Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve was established in 1995 thanks to passionate locals who fought for protection. It’s working, fish populations are bouncing back, and the underwater world is thriving.
You’ll see ongoing work to bring back native dune plants like spinifex and pīngao, protect crucial wetland bird habitat, and help native bush regenerate. The 100 Acre Track is a great example of what’s possible when we give nature a helping hand.
Long Bay Okura Great Park Society has been championing this place since 1996. They run conservation projects and educational programs. If you love what you see here, consider supporting their work.
Stay on tracks, don’t disturb wildlife, take only photos. Your respect for this place helps ensure it stays beautiful for future generations.
Emergency: 111
Auckland Council: 09 301 0101
DOC Conservation Hotline: 0800 362 468
Report Pollution: 09 377 3107
We’ve put this guide together using official sources, local knowledge, and plenty of personal experience. Everything was current as of writing, but always check conditions before you head out. Have an amazing time!
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