Kohimarama Beach sits on Tāmaki Drive between Mission Bay and St Heliers — one of the central-east Auckland beach strip’s most family-friendly swimming spots. The long curving sand beach faces Rangitoto and the Hauraki Gulf, with calm sheltered swimming conditions, easy public access and the village shops a short stroll away.
Practical Information
| Address | Tāmaki Drive, Kohimarama, Auckland (eastern bays) |
| From central Auckland | ~7 km — about 15 min drive or cycle along Tāmaki Drive |
| Type | Sheltered urban swimming beach |
| Conditions | Calm, gentle waves; best at mid–high tide |
| Lifeguarding | Patrolled by Eastern Beach Lifeguard Service in summer (check NZ Surf Life Saving for dates) |
| Facilities | Toilets, changing rooms, grass reserve, playground, cafes opposite |
| Parking | Paid street parking along Tāmaki Drive |
| Dogs | Off-lead before 10am and after 6pm in summer; on lead other times |
| Cost | Free public beach |
About the Beach
Kohimarama is the central one of the three classic eastern bays beaches (Mission Bay to the west, St Heliers to the east), and arguably the most family-oriented of the trio. The curving bay is sheltered from the prevailing south-westerlies by the headlands at each end, with calm Hauraki Gulf water that warms reasonably well in summer. The beach sits directly on Tāmaki Drive — a popular weekend cycling and walking route — making it part of one of Auckland’s most enjoyable seaside strips.
Swimming Conditions
Best swimming is at mid–high tide when the water reaches up to the sand. At low tide the gentle gradient means a long walk out to swimmable depth. The bay is well-sheltered so there’s rarely significant surf or current, making it a popular choice for families with young swimmers. Check Auckland Council’s Safeswim service before visiting — stormwater overflow after heavy rain can affect water quality (current swim warnings are updated in real time on their site).
Combining Kohimarama With the Eastern Bays
The Tāmaki Drive cycleway and shared path runs the full length of the bays — Kohimarama works well as a midway stop on a Mission Bay to St Heliers walk or cycle. The village strip across Tāmaki Drive has multiple cafes and an ice-cream shop facing the beach, plus the local Kohimarama Yacht Club at the eastern end. On a hot day, combining Kohimarama with the larger sandy stretches of Mission Bay (busier, more facilities) and St Heliers (quieter village atmosphere) gives a full day-out option.
Where to Learn More
Safeswim — Kohimarama Beach — Auckland Council’s real-time water-quality service; check before swimming, particularly after rain.
Auckland NZ — Kohimarama Beach — official visitor information.
Surf Life Saving NZ — patrol schedules and beach safety information for Auckland beaches.
Ōrākei Local Board — the local board responsible for the eastern bays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kohimarama safe for kids?
Yes — it’s one of Auckland’s most family-friendly beaches, with sheltered calm water and summer lifeguard patrols. Always check Safeswim for current water quality.
What’s the best time to swim?
Mid to high tide when the water reaches up to the sand. Low tide leaves a long walk to swimmable depth.
Are dogs allowed?
Off-lead before 10am and after 6pm in summer; on lead at other times. Check Auckland Council current rules before visiting with a dog.
Is there parking?
Yes — paid street parking along Tāmaki Drive. Busy on summer weekends; arrive early.
What about facilities?
Public toilets, changing rooms, grass picnic reserve, playground, and cafes/restaurants directly opposite on Tāmaki Drive.
Can I cycle there?
Yes — the Tāmaki Drive cycleway connects from the central city, making it a popular cycling destination.
For more eastern bays beaches see Beaches in Auckland — including Mission Bay Beach next door and St Heliers Bay.