Piha combines a black sand beach with forested hills and distinctive coastal landmarks. Swimming and surfing are popular activities; trails also lead to a waterfall and through the hills. When planning, you can treat time at the beach, the Kitekite Falls Path and exploring inland as separate priorities. Lion Rock and The Gap each provide a distinct, clearly identifiable landmark in the coastal landscape.
Beach, swimming and surfing
Piha Beach is a black sand beach where people surf. Sunbathing, picnicking and fishing are also possible there. Swimming is also popular in Piha. In the middle of the beach, next to Moana Stream, there are public toilets and changing rooms. If you plan to swim, check the latest safety advice about conditions.
Several surf schools near Piha Beach offer lessons for all ages and skill levels. As providers may change, check current options in advance. This lets you plan a potential surf lesson separately from your time at the beach, without making your entire stay revolve around a single activity.
Lion Rock and The Gap
Lion Rock lies between Piha Beach and North Piha Beach. To Te Kawerau, the rock was known as Te Piha. Its position between the two beaches makes it a prominent landmark along the Piha coast; the traditional MÄori name adds a cultural reference to the geographic context.
The Gap is a low-lying point between Taitomo Island and the cliffs. Waves break there in heavy swells. In MÄori tradition, The Gap was considered the lair of the famous taniwha Kaiwhare. At low tide, The Gap can be reached either along the coast or via the Tasman Lookout Track from the southern end of Piha Beach. Access depends on tidal and surf conditions; take these into account when planning your visit.
Waterfall track and forested hills
The Kitekite Falls Path leads to a 40-metre-high waterfall in approximately 30 minutes on foot. The route has compacted gravel paths and boardwalks. The approximate walking time is a useful guide when planning a visit to the waterfall alongside time at the beach or other explorations. After heavy rain, avoid crossing streams and stay on the paths and boardwalks.
The forested hills around Piha Beach also offer opportunities for walking and exploring. From trails near the beach, you can spot wildlife in the hills behind Piha. So, as well as coastal activities, you can choose to enjoy nature in hilly terrain without needing to visit another beach.
Getting there and finding accommodation
The easiest way to reach Piha Beach is by car. If you are looking for a hotel for a stay in Piha, first decide what you would like to focus on: beach activities, the Kitekite Falls Path, walks in the hills, or the coastal landmarks Lion Rock and The Gap. This choice can help you assess whether the destination suits your travel interests. Different conditions apply to individual activities: swimming depends on the latest safety advice, and access to The Gap depends on low tide as well as tidal and surf conditions. Take these factors into account when planning your day.
Discover more destinations: Warkworth, Sandspit, Parakai, Bombay, Waiuku, Kumeu, Mangatangi, Glen Murray.
For the broader travel overview: Auckland.
