Bethells Beach (Te Henga)
Beach Safety (via SafeSwim.org.nz)
Bethells Beach
Water Quality: GREEN|Patrolled: No (Lifeguards off duty until summer)View full details on SafeSwim.org.nz
Facilities
- Parking
- Toliets
- Beach
Bethells Beach, known by its Māori name Te Henga, is a rugged black sand beach on Auckland’s west coast. It is popular with surfers, walkers and nature lovers. It's less commercialised than nearby Piha but offers a wilder more untouched feel being framed by steep dunes, windswept cliffs and the roaring sea.
The beach is part of a broader landscape that includes the Te Henga Walkway, Lake Wainamu and awesome sea caves which are accessible at low tide. While the surf is powerful and best left to experienced swimmers, Bethells is ideal for long beach walks, photography or simply taking in the raw beauty of Auckland’s west coast.
Facilities are minimal. Expect a car park, public toilets, and not much else. But I feel that’s part of the appeal. It’s a place to unplug and reconnect with nature, just 45 minutes from the city.
Local Guide Tips
Local Tip: No Lifeguards Year-Round - Please be careful
There are no surf lifeguards outside summer weekends, and rips are common. Swimming is not recommended unless patrol flags are up, which is rare.
Local Tip: Limited Facilities
There are no shops or cafés at Bethells, so bring your own water, food, and supplies. Toilets are located near the main car park.
Local Tip: Walk to Lake Wainamu
From the car park, follow the inland track across sand dunes to Lake Wainamu, a freshwater lake great for swimming and cooling off after a coastal hike.
Local Tip: Sea Cave Access
At low tide, walk south along the beach to find sea caves carved into the cliffs. Watch the tide closely and only explore when conditions are safe.
Local Tip: Te Henga Walkway
This coastal trail starts at Bethells and climbs into the cliffs. The first section offers panoramic views over the beach and is a great option even if you don’t complete the full walk.