Counting the wavesβ¦
Counting the wavesβ¦
You'll round the final bend on Matauri Bay Road and the view opens all at once: a wide crescent of sand so white it glows against pohutukawa shade, turquoise shallows deepening to cobalt, and the Cavalli Islands punctuating the horizon. The bay holds its color even under cloud, a trick of the sand reflecting light back through the water. Wade in and the seabed stays visible twenty meters out, rippled sand giving way to patches of kelp where snapper cruise. Families cluster near the boat ramp at the southern end, but walk north and you'll claim space beneath the gnarled coastal trees, their crimson blooms carpeting the sand in December. The snorkeling around the rocks at either headland rewards patienceβblue maomao flicker in the surge, and if you're lucky, a stingray glides past, wings rippling. A walking track climbs the northern headland to the Rainbow Warrior memorial, where the French government's bombed Greenpeace flagship lies scuttled offshore as a dive site. From the monument, the entire sweep of Matauri unfolds below, the sand tracing a geometry so clean it looks drafted. Down on the beach, the water stays swimmable most days, protected enough for children yet open enough to feel the pulse of the Pacific beyond the islands.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Matauri Bay Beach.
Photos
Matauri Bay Beach is generally safe for swimming during calm weather, with sheltered conditions inside the bay. The white-sand beach slopes gently into turquoise waters, making it suitable for families. However, there are no lifeguard patrols, so swim between the flags if present and stay close to shore. Check local conditions before entering, as wind and swell from the northeast can create currents. Always supervise children closely and avoid swimming alone in unpatrolled areas.
The best time to visit Matauri Bay Beach is during New Zealand's summer months from December to March, when weather is warmest and most stable for swimming and beach activities. The bay enjoys pleasant conditions from late spring through early autumn (November to April). Weekdays and shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds while still providing good weather. Early mornings provide calm waters and stunning light for photography, particularly with views toward the Cavalli Islands offshore.
Matauri Bay Beach is located approximately 30 kilometers north of Kerikeri in Northland. From State Highway 10, turn onto Matauri Bay Road and follow it to the beach. The drive from Kerikeri takes about 35 minutes through rural countryside. There is a parking area near the beach with basic facilities. The roads are sealed but winding in sections. No public transport serves Matauri Bay directly, so a rental car is essential. The nearest major town for services is Kerikeri.
Matauri Bay itself is a small coastal settlement with limited commercial facilities. Accommodation options include holiday homes, a campground, and occasional bed-and-breakfasts in the area. For a wider range of restaurants, cafes, and lodging, visitors typically base themselves in Kerikeri (35 minutes south) or the Bay of Islands towns. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks for a beach day, as there are no shops or cafes directly at the beach.
Matauri Bay Beach is distinguished by its striking turquoise waters and views of the dramatic Cavalli Islands just offshore. The Rainbow Warrior memorial sits on the headland overlooking the bay, commemorating the Greenpeace vessel scuttled here in 1987. The sweeping crescent of white sand and relatively uncrowded nature make it feel more pristine than busier Bay of Islands beaches. The combination of scenic beauty, historical significance, and excellent snorkeling opportunities around the rocky headlands creates a memorable Northland experience.
