Long Bay Regional Park is one of Auckland’s most popular coastal parks — a 160-hectare reserve on the North Shore with a kilometre of sandy beach, sandstone cliff walks, native forest and a children’s playground. It’s free to enter, close to the city, and suitable for all ages, which explains why it draws large crowds on summer weekends.
Practical Information
| Location | Long Bay, North Shore, approximately 30 km north of Auckland CBD |
| Access | Entrance via Beach Road, Long Bay — ample car parking on site |
| Entry | Free |
| Camping | No tent camping. Self-contained vehicle (SCC) parking area available — book through Auckland Council |
| Facilities | Toilets, showers, BBQs, picnic areas, playground, café nearby |
| Swimming | Safe beach, pram-friendly beach access |
| Dogs | On-leash in designated areas; check signage on arrival |
About Long Bay Regional Park
Long Bay has been a popular Auckland seaside destination for over a century. The park stretches from the beach at Long Bay northward along Waitemata Group sandstone cliffs to the Okura estuary — a varied landscape that shifts from family picnic ground to quiet coastal bush within a short walk. The cliff-top sandstone formations are distinctive, sculpted by weather into layered shelves above the surf.
The beach itself is a genuine asset: about one kilometre of north-facing sand that catches the sun most of the day, with gentle enough surf for children in calm conditions. The water is generally clean and the beach is pram-accessible, making it popular with families from across the North Shore.
Walking Tracks
The park’s main walking route is the Long Bay—Okura Track, a 16-kilometre return route that follows the cliff tops north from Long Bay to the Okura estuary. The section within the park itself takes around 2—3 hours return and passes through native coastal forest with views back across the Hauraki Gulf. Shorter options include the cliff-top loop (45 minutes) and the beach foreshore walk. The park also connects to the Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand’s long-distance walking route.
The cliff-top sections pass remnants of World War II gun emplacements — the same coastal defence network found at other Auckland parks. Side tracks lead down to the cliff base at low tide.
Facilities and Family Activities
Long Bay is one of the better-equipped regional parks for families. The Variety Children’s Charity Playground is designed for accessibility alongside standard play equipment. BBQ areas are scattered through the picnic grounds under mature trees. Toilets and showers are available near the beach car park. For food, a café operates near the entrance — check current hours directly as these change seasonally.
The park is also suitable for kayaking and windsurfing in calm conditions, and the beach provides a reasonable launch point. No boat ramp is available within the park itself.
What Visitors Say
“One of the best beaches near Auckland — clean, long and not too crowded on weekdays. The cliff walk is lovely and the kids loved the playground. Go early on summer weekends.” — TripAdvisor reviewer
“Great family spot. Beach is great for swimming and the BBQ areas are well set up. The walk along the cliff tops above the beach is stunning — definitely worth doing before or after a swim.” — Google reviewer
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Long Bay Regional Park — official page with track maps, facility information and SCC parking booking.
AllTrails — Long Bay Regional Park — trail maps, distances and visitor reviews for walking tracks in the park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Long Bay Regional Park free to enter?
Yes, entry to the park and beach is free for all visitors. The SCC overnight parking area requires a booking fee.
Can I swim at Long Bay?
Yes. The beach is considered safe for swimming, with generally gentle conditions. It is unpatrolled, so swim with care.
Is Long Bay accessible by public transport?
Yes. Several bus routes serve the Long Bay area from central Auckland and the North Shore. Check AT Metro for current routes and timetables.
How long is the Long Bay—Okura Track?
The full track is approximately 16 kilometres return. The section within Long Bay Regional Park itself is shorter — around 2—3 hours return to the Okura end and back.
Are dogs allowed at Long Bay Regional Park?
Dogs are permitted on leads in designated areas. Check signage at the entrance for current rules, as these can vary by season.
Is there camping at Long Bay Regional Park?
No tent camping. A self-contained vehicle (SCC) parking area is available for campervans — book in advance through Auckland Council.
More Auckland Parks and Reserves
Long Bay sits at the southern end of a chain of coastal parks stretching north toward the Whangaparāoa Peninsula. For more coastal walking, Shakespear Regional Park at the tip of the peninsula offers a similar mix of beach and bush. Browse all parks at Auckland parks and reserves.