Water Activities

Muriwai Beach

Muriwai Beach is a stunning coastal destination that families absolutely love, with dramatic dark sand stretching along the shore and spectacular views of the Tasman Sea. The beach is perfect for children to explore rock pools, build sandcastles, and splash in the waves, whilst parents can relax and enjoy the wild, natural beauty of this special Auckland spot. Look out for the gannet colonies on the cliff tops – they're a truly magical sight that kids find absolutely fascinating!

How muchTe utu: Free
Ages: 4–89+
WhereKei hea: Muriwai
Rating: 4.8; 4,743 on Google

Get directions Full listing detailsregionalparks.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Perfect for

Water Activities Free Things to Do Outdoor Activities

LocationTe wāhi

Muriwai

458 Motutara Road

Directions Website

What other parents say

Nav5 months ago

Visited Muriwai Beach recently and honestly, it’s one of those places that just stays with you. The black sand, the sound of the waves crashing and that fresh coastal breeze ;everything about it feels so raw and peaceful at the same time. It’s not your typical beach and that’s what makes it special. There’s something really calming about just walking along the shore, watching the waves roll in and taking a moment to slow down from everything else. The views are stunning, especially around sunset. The sky, the ocean, and the open space all come together so beautifully. it just puts you in a good headspace. If you’re looking for a place to relax, clear your mind or just enjoy nature, this is definitely worth the drive. Such a gem out west 👍🌅

Paul Belli2 months ago

Love Muriwai. If you love wild rugged West Coast Auckland, this is a gem amongst the wild! Photographers paradise too I might add.

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Tuija Peltonen8 months ago

We wanted to visit black sand beaches and Muriwai Beach was our first visit. Sand was very hot. We went first to that beach area where swimming was not recommended but later went to correct swimming area with lifeguards onsite. Beach was pretty and day was very hot.

Tim Warren4 months ago

It’s just a stunning beach. Get a permit from Auckland Council and you can drive on it, but only do it if you’ve got a off-road vehicle or you will probably get stuck It’s a great place to go fishing, you can serve here, it’s just stunning

Famiza Dean7 months ago

Muriwai beach is on another level!! The black sand? Unreal. The cliffs? Breathtaking. The waves crashing against the shore? Pure power. This place feels wild, dramatic, and absolutely cinematic. Walking along the beach with that ocean breeze hitting your face is an instant reset for the soul. And the gannet colony? Iconic. Watching them glide over the cliffs is something you don’t see every day. Hands down one of the most epic beaches in Auckland. 5/5 without hesitation.

Reviews from Google.