Swimming In Auckland
Awesome places to swim, swimming holes & More
Greatest places to go Swimming In Auckland
Welcome to our guide to Auckland’s best free swimming spots! Nestled between rugged coastlines, serene lakes, and lush native forests, Auckland offers a diverse selection of beautiful swimming locations that are completely free to enjoy.
From the tranquil pools at Karekare Falls and Kitekite Falls to the sandy beaches of Orewa and Mission Bay, this list includes spots for every kind of swimmer and nature lover. Whether you’re seeking adventure with a hike to a secluded waterfall, looking to snorkel in pristine marine waters at Tāwharanui Regional Park, or hoping for a family-friendly beach day at Point Chevalier, you’ll find the perfect spot here.
This page provides details on each location, including accessibility, amenities, safety tips, and local regulations to ensure a memorable experience. Explore Auckland’s natural beauty, immerse yourself in its clear waters, and enjoy these free swimming spots while being mindful of conservation efforts and local guidelines.
Dive into nature and make the most of Auckland’s stunning outdoor settings!
Waterfalls and Natural Swimming Holes
Karekare Falls
- Location: Karekare, West Auckland
- Features: Freshwater pool with a 25-meter waterfall, perfect for a peaceful swim.
- Accessibility: Short walk from the Lone Kauri Road car park with picnic spots nearby.
- Highlights: This secluded spot, made famous by the movie The Piano, offers a beautiful and quiet retreat.
Kitekite Falls
- Location: Near Piha, Waitakere Ranges
- Features: Multi-tiered falls with a large swimming pool at the base.
- Accessibility: 30-minute walk from the Piha car park via a scenic track.
- Highlights: Great for families; enjoy swimming surrounded by natural beauty and take a dip in the cool waters of the Waitakere Ranges.
Oakley Creek Falls
- Location: Waterview, Central Auckland
- Features: Central Auckland’s only natural waterfall with a small, refreshing swimming hole.
- Accessibility: 15-minute hike from the Oakley Creek Reserve entrance, making it one of the city’s most accessible waterfalls.
- Highlights: Easily accessible by public transport, this spot offers a serene swimming escape just minutes from the city center.
Lucas Creek
- Location: Albany, North Shore
- Features: A hidden gem, offering a picturesque waterfall with a small swimming area.
- Accessibility: Short walk from Albany Highway along a paved path suitable for strollers.
- Highlights: Best enjoyed after rainfall for a stronger water flow; a peaceful spot away from the crowds.
Lakes and Coastal Beaches
Lake Wainamu
- Location: Near Te Henga/Bethells Beach
- Features: Crystal-clear lake surrounded by scenic sand dunes, ideal for swimming and sandboarding.
- Accessibility: 30-minute walk from the Bethells Beach car park, passing through unique black-sand dunes.
- Highlights: A favorite among locals for its remote beauty and refreshing water.
Cornwallis Beach
- Location: Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, West Auckland
- Features: Long, calm beach with a wharf for fishing, making it a perfect spot for families.
- Accessibility: Accessible 24/7 for pedestrians, with vehicle access limited to daytime hours.
- Highlights: Beautiful beachside setting with picnic areas, ideal for a day of relaxation by the water.
Tāwharanui Regional Park
- Location: Tāwharanui Peninsula
- Features: Pristine white-sand beach with snorkeling opportunities and scenic rock pools.
- Accessibility: 90-minute drive from Auckland CBD, with plenty of parking available.
- Highlights: Excellent for snorkeling, with clear waters teeming with marine life; enjoy exploring trails and spotting native birds.
Orewa Beach
- Location: Orewa, North Shore
- Features: Popular sandy beach with family-friendly swimming, BBQ areas, and shaded picnic spots.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible with ample parking and nearby facilities.
- Highlights: Great for families with gentle waves and seasonal lifeguards ensuring a safe swimming environment.
Mission Bay
- Location: Mission Bay, Central Auckland
- Features: Busy urban beach with a promenade lined with cafes and scenic views of Rangitoto Island.
- Accessibility: Well-connected by public transport with ample parking nearby.
- Highlights: Popular for its convenient location, calm waters, and amenities like playgrounds and picnic areas, making it a full-day destination.
Point Chevalier Beach
- Location: Point Chevalier, Auckland
- Features: Sheltered beach known for its calm waters, best for swimming at high tide.
- Accessibility: Public transport options and nearby street parking make it easily accessible.
- Highlights: Perfect for families with young kids; nearby picnic and BBQ areas add to its appeal for group outings.
Tāpapakanga Regional Park
- Location: Firth of Thames
- Features: Offers both a pōhutukawa-lined beach and a freshwater lagoon, providing diverse swimming options.
- Accessibility: A 1-hour drive from Auckland CBD, with parking available and camping options.
- Highlights: A unique dual swimming experience with stunning scenery, ideal for day trips or extended stays.
Blockhouse Bay
- Location: Manukau Harbour, West Auckland
- Features: Horseshoe-shaped bay with cool waters, open green spaces, and historical significance.
- Accessibility: Close to public transport routes and offers ample parking.
- Highlights: Quiet and family-friendly, with grassy areas and a nautical-themed playground.
These diverse swimming spots across Auckland, from serene lakes and vibrant beaches to hidden waterfalls, provide endless options for cooling off and enjoying New Zealand’s natural beauty. Remember to check water safety guidelines and tide conditions before diving in to make the most of your experience.
