Piha Beach
Beach Safety (via SafeSwim.org.nz)
Piha Beach
Water Quality: GREEN|Patrolled: No (Lifeguards off duty until summer)View full details on SafeSwim.org.nzPiha Lagoon
Water Quality: RED Alert|Patrolled: NoView full details on SafeSwim.org.nz
Facilities
- Parking
- Toilet
- Beach
Wild, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful, Piha Beach is one of Auckland’s most iconic coastal destinations. Located on the west coast just 45 minutes from the city, Piha is famed for its dramatic black sand, pounding surf, and the striking silhouette of Lion Rock, a natural volcanic formation that stands sentinel between the north and south ends of the beach.
A favourite with experienced surfers, Piha’s waves are powerful and exhilarating. For others, it’s a place to relax, explore tide pools, hike nearby tracks in the Waitākere Ranges, or simply take in the raw beauty of New Zealand’s west coast.
Facilities include public toilets, a surf club with seasonal patrols, and local cafés tucked just back from the shore. While the beach is untamed, it’s not without charm, especially at sunset, when the light turns the ocean gold and the cliffs deep red.
Piha is best suited for confident swimmers and adventurous explorers seeking a wilder side of Auckland.
Local Guide Tips
Local Tip: Lion Rock Lookout
Climb partway up Lion Rock for an incredible view over Piha’s black sand and wild surf. The short walk is steep but manageable and best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset.
Local Tip: Swimming Safety
Piha is known for strong rips and powerful waves. Always swim between the flags and check conditions with the Piha Surf Life Saving Club before entering the water.
Local Tip: Sunset Spotting
Piha sunsets are legendary. Head to the southern end of the beach or perch near the rocks for the best uninterrupted views as the sun dips into the Tasman Sea.
Local Tip: Grab a Local Bite
Piha Café serves up coffee, smoothies, and classic Kiwi fare in a laid-back setting. It is a great place to fuel up before a hike or wind down after the beach.
Local Tip: Hidden Waterfall Walk (Kitekite Falls)
Just a 2 min drive from Piha Beach, Kitekite Falls is a must-visit for nature lovers. This stunning multi-tiered waterfall is tucked into the native bush of the Waitākere Ranges and reached via a gentle 45-minute return walk through ferns, streams, and towering kauri.
The track leads to a dramatic 40 metre cascade that spills into a large, swimmable pool, which is perfect for a cool dip on a hot day. For the adventurous, a short climb above the falls reveals even more scenic views and tranquil rock pools.
Pack sturdy shoes and your camera as Kitekite Falls is one of Auckland's West Coast’s true hidden gems.
