Takapuna
North Shore, Auckland, Auckland
Urban cool meets laid-back beach vibes at Takapuna, just 15 minutes from Auckland CBD. Not only does this North Shore suburb have white-sand beaches, a volcanic lake, and ocean views looking out to Rangitoto Island, but the small town center has enough shops, cafés, and restaurants to keep Aucklanders entertained away from the beach.
There's plenty to do, whether you’re escaping to Takapuna for a weekend break, enjoying a day at the beach, or using the coastal suburb as a base for visiting Auckland. Head down to Takapuna Beach to swim, snorkel or stand-up paddleboard, sail or windsurf on Lake Pupuke, and hike the Lava Trail along the Hauraki Gulf coast. Afterward, browse the shops and boutiques, visit the weekly market, and choose from more than 150 bars, restaurants, cafés, and ice cream parlors.
Getting around Takapuna on foot is easy, so prepare to do plenty of walking. Don’t forget your swimsuit—you’ll never be far from the water.
Takapuna Beach has grassy picnic areas, changing rooms, and playgrounds. It’s also the first Auckland beach to provide full access to wheelchairs.
Takapuna has plenty of options for eating, drinking, and shopping and provides great alternatives for foodies looking to expand their Auckland repertoire.
Takapuna Beach is located along Auckland’s North Shore, about a 15-minute drive from Auckland CBD. To reach Takapuna by public transport, take one of the many North Shore-bound buses from Auckland CBD to Takapuna, about a 30-minute journey. Alternatively, ride the ferry from downtown Auckland to Devonport (about 30 minutes), then take Bus 813 to Takapuna (about 15 minutes).
Sunseekers throng to Takapuna in the summer and the beach can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. It’s often warm enough to swim in late spring or early fall, and this is generally a quieter time to visit. Time your visit to coincide with the weekly Sunday markets or for annual events such as the Winter Lights Festival (July) and Summer Days festival.
A short drive across Auckland Harbour Bridge or a ferry ride across Waitematā Harbour, the North Shore is home to laid-back seaside towns and some of Auckland’s closest beaches. Takapuna is the unofficial ‘capital’ of the North Shore, but equally popular is harborside Devonport, with its historic buildings, lively art scene, and sandy beach. North of Takapuna, Milford Beach is a local favorite, Albany is known for its shopping malls and golf course, and Long Bay Regional Park has family-friendly beaches.
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