Last updated July 2026
Long Bay Regional Park (also known as Te Oneroa o Kahu) is a popular 160-hectare coastal reserve on Auckland’s North Shore. It features a long sandy beach, sandstone cliffs, native bush and family facilities, drawing visitors year-round. The park lies adjacent to the Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve and offers easy access from the city. It is free to enter and suitable for all ages, with safe swimming conditions in calm weather.
Practical Information
| Location | 2000 Beach Road, Long Bay, North Shore, Auckland |
| Access | Entrance via Beach Road; ample on-site parking. About 25-30 km or 30-minute drive north of Auckland CBD. |
| Entry | Free |
| Camping / Overnight | No tent camping. Self-contained vehicle (SCC) overnight parking available; book through Auckland Council. |
| Facilities | Toilets, showers, BBQs, picnic areas, playground, nearby café |
| Swimming | Safe beach with pram-friendly access; check Safeswim for current conditions |
| Dogs | Allowed on-leash in designated areas only; prohibited at bookable sites and accommodation |
| Public Transport | Bus services available from central Auckland and North Shore |
About Long Bay Regional Park
Long Bay has served as a seaside destination for Aucklanders for over a century. The park protects the northernmost of the east coast bays and extends northward along distinctive Waitemata Group sandstone cliffs toward the Okura estuary. The landscape transitions from open beach and picnic grounds to coastal forest and estuary margins.
The main beach offers approximately one kilometre of north-facing sand that receives sun for much of the day. Gentle surf and generally clean water make it suitable for families, with pram access along the foreshore. The park connects to the Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve, supporting a range of coastal activities.
Facilities include the Variety all-abilities playground, scattered BBQ and picnic areas under mature trees, and changing rooms with showers near the main car park. A café operates near the entrance. The park is smoke-free, rubbish-free and prohibits outdoor fires.
Walking Tracks
The primary route is the Long Bay-Okura Track, an out-and-back trail of approximately 8 km one way that follows cliff tops through native coastal forest with views across the Hauraki Gulf. The section within the park typically takes 2.5-3 hours return. Shorter options include cliff-top loops and beach walks.
The track forms part of the Te Araroa Trail. Remnants of World War II coastal defence structures are visible along the cliffs. Side paths descend to the shoreline at low tide. Track maps are available on the Auckland Council website.
Swimming and Water Activities
The beach provides safe swimming in suitable conditions, though it remains unpatrolled. Visitors should check current water quality on the Safeswim website before entering the water. The sheltered bay also supports kayaking and windsurfing in calm conditions, with the beach serving as a launch point. No boat ramp exists within the park.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the clean, long beach and family-friendly atmosphere, noting it is less crowded on weekdays. Many enjoy the cliff-top walks for views and the accessible playground for children. Early arrival is recommended on summer weekends.
Families highlight the well-equipped BBQ and picnic areas alongside safe swimming spots. Reviewers frequently mention the scenic cliff walks as a highlight before or after time on the beach.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Te Oneroa o Kahu / Long Bay Regional Park: official page with maps, facilities, dog rules, booking information and current alerts.
Safeswim: real-time water quality and swimming safety information for Auckland beaches including Long Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Long Bay Regional Park free to enter?
Yes, entry to the park and beach is free. A booking fee applies for self-contained vehicle overnight parking.
Can I swim at Long Bay?
Yes, the beach is suitable for swimming in appropriate conditions. It is unpatrolled; always check Safeswim for current water quality.
Are dogs allowed at Long Bay Regional Park?
Dogs are permitted on-leash in designated areas. They are prohibited at bookable sites, accommodation areas and certain other zones; check signage on arrival.
Is there camping at Long Bay Regional Park?
No tent camping is available. Self-contained vehicle parking can be booked in advance through Auckland Council.
How long is the Long Bay-Okura Track?
The track is approximately 8 km one way. The section within the park typically takes 2.5-3 hours return.
Is Long Bay accessible by public transport?
Yes, regular bus services connect Long Bay with central Auckland and the North Shore. Check AT Metro for timetables.
Are there World War II structures in the park?
Yes, remnants of coastal defence gun emplacements from World War II are visible along the cliff tops.
What is the official name of the park?
The park is officially known as Te Oneroa o Kahu / Long Bay Regional Park.
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