Karekare Beach is an unspoiled beach located 38 km west of Auckland in the small coastal village of Karekare. The picturesque black sand beach is surrounded by the Waitakere Ranges and is great for surfing, bodyboarding on the sand dunes or swimming during patrolled hours.

Popular with Aucklanders looking to escape the city, it is still a lot quieter than its northerly neighbour Piha.

Crowded House's album 'Together Alone' was recorded here with one of the songs named in its honour, while scenes from Oscar winning movie The Piano and Xena: Warrior Princess were also shot here.

Products and specialities

Surf Beach
Swimming

Reviews

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Kare Kare Beach is one of Auckland's most beautiful beaches and best surf spots. A sprawling expanse, it's typically less busy than the nearby, and equally beautiful, Piha - making it a great option when you want to avoid crowds (but not the best if you want to take littlies for a swim).

Nothing beats a Saturday drive to Karekare beach. This is an essential trip to take if visiting Auckland. This beach is NZ to a tee. Big rolling black sand dunes, rugged terrain and ferocious seas. I prefer to walk on the beach here rather than swim, but there are life guards on duty in the summer so you can swim between the flags if you dare. When visiting Karekare beach next, be sure to check out the majestic waterfalls. Its just a short bush walk to get there which in itself is beautiful.

Great place to visit! Love the falls!

Beautiful spot, nice little walks nearby, good for families.

Karekare Beach is like your sweet, little, yet oh-so fierce grandma. It’s a beautiful and serene spot, but one that can play host to enormous waves, strong currents and even stronger winds. It’s a crowd favourite during summers, when you’ll often see the little ones running up the sand dunes only to slide down them again on their boogie boards. I love it most during the short winter days though, when you can catch a quick brisk walk along the coastline just before sunset. On days when Karekare is really turning it on it’s easy to think that you’ve just stepped into another, yet to be discovered, world.

My parents use to bring me to Karekare and now I am bring my kids here too...This use to be and STILL is one of my favorite beaches. It has some wicked walks, an awesome waterfall, and we just love going and letting the kids let off some steam...lots to explore.

This is my personal choice for west coast beaches since it is flat, friendly and not dangerous like neighbouring Piha.  In fact I will never understand why people risk their lives and those of their kids at Piha when 10 minutes before is the turn off to Karekare. Karekare is so good for picnics and swimming.    Perfect for mall children without the risk of rip like its neighbour. Grab a picnic, the kids and a blanket - this is where summer is!!

My partner and I went to this beach yesterday as inspired by the lyrics of a Crowded House song. It did not disappoint! There's the beach, tidepooling/rock hopping, fishing, a waterfall, and gorgeous views. Plus, it was not overrun by people. I would suggest being careful on the road there, as it's very narrow and people aren't quite as careful as they should be, and bring gum boots if you have them, because you do need to cross a stream (though you can rock hop one part). 

I think it is really beautiful out at KareKare. Although it may not be the most amazing swim ever, its definitely good for surfing. And you'll always have peace of mind knowing that KareKare has an amazing Surf Life Saving Team. Yes the walk to the beach itself is kinda long, but its well worth when your on the beach. 

Sorry piha, muriwai… Your surf is good but Karekare is the looker!!! Absolutely stunning spot not too far from home. It is quite secluded with spectacular views, amazing sunset!!! and no tourists or crowds. And did i say SUNSET??!!! Great walks and we found a secret freshwater waterfall off a farm on our trip in !! Absolutely amazing!