Our Top 5 Beach Picnic Spots in North Auckland

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The City of Sails is renowned for it’s urban-beach vibe. You’re never too far from a picturesque bay or wild coastline. With summer bbq season upon us, here are our top 5 beach picnic spots in North Auckland to plan your next day out with family and friends.

1. Mahurangi Regional Park 

Located just 57 minutes from Auckland CBD, Mahurangi Regional Park consists of two separate areas: Mahurangi East and Mahurangi West and is separated by the Mahurangi Harbour. Mahurangi West, just 15 minutes from Warkworth, is the perfect spot for a summer picnic - stunning scenery, safe swimming beaches, wide open spaces for a game of cricket and access to public amenities.

Image credit: Dominey Flores

2. Tawharanui

Tawharanui Regional Park is about 80 minutes drive north of Auckland and is considered of the best kept nature spots in the Auckland region. Sandy beaches perfect for swimming and surfing, and pohutukawa tree lined grassed areas make it picnic paradise.

Image credit: @renatoieiri

3. Snells Beach

Located 50 minutes from Auckland CBD, Snells Beach is a popular, family friendly holiday destination. If you’re after a beach with safe swimming, public amenities and close proximity to a shopping centre, Snells Beach is the perfect spot for an all-day picnic.

Image credit: @myjetguru

4. Omaha Beach

Located an hour from Auckland CBD, Omaha Beach is one of the region’s favourite surf beaches. White sandy beaches, surrounded by rolling green hills. It’s the perfect spot to lay out a picnic blanket and chill.

Image credit: Dominey Flores

5. Matheson Bay Reserve

Matheson Bay Reserve, a kilometre south of Leigh, is Picnic heaven with tree lined sandy shores. It’s a great place to spend with the family and has plenty of natural attractions to keep everyone occupied—from safe swimming beaches, rock pools, and the occasional dolphin or orca watching.

Image credit: Dominey Flores