Bethells Beach, also known as Te Henga Beach, is a wide, dark sandy stretch of sand that lies about 30 kilometers northwest of the center of Auckland.
The magnificent Bethells Beach meets the mouth of the Waitakere River which flows into the wilderness of the Tasman Sea.
The beach is one of the most popular beaches on the western coast of Auckland, along with Piha, Muriwai, and Karekare. The photogenic nature of the beach has been portrayed in a variety of television projects, including Xena: Warrior Princess.
Bethells Beach Facilities
- Car Parking
- Small café located in the car park
- Toilets and Outdoor Shower
Getting to Bethells Beach
Going to Bethells Beach from Auckland is easy for anyone with a car. The short drive is just about 45 minutes, depending on the traffic, and is basically just west of Auckland. Visitors can reach the beach from a car park with a short walk along the Waitakere River to the beach.
Bethells Beach is also very close to Piha Beach, so visiting both beaches is a perfect day trip from Auckland.
Amazing Spots to Explore at Bethells Beach
Bethells Beach Cave
There is a wide cave at the south end of Bethells Beach which can be explored during low tide.
This big cave is just 30-40 meters deep and has a large opening so there’s plenty of light in it. From the inside, you have the ideal window into nature to Bethells Beach and the surrounding scenery.
O’Neill Bay
While Bethells Beach has a lot of surfing, the most common spot among surfers is the nearby O’Neill Bay. This bay is only a short walk from Bethells Beach and it’s a perfect place to sit back and watch the surfers in motion.
Lake Wainamu and Bethells Beach Sand Dunes
No trip to Bethells Beach will be complete without taking a look at Lake Wainamu and the sand dunes that surround it.
The path to Wainamu Lake takes you along some wonderful volcanic sand dunes. The sand dunes are huge, and once you get to the edge, you’ll experience a steep drop to a small creek that feeds into Wainamu Lake.
Staying SAFE at The Beach
The beach is New Zealand’s favourite playground, but it can be a dangerous spot as well. Knowing about the hazards and risks and preparing yourself can ensure that you and your family will enjoy the heat, the sea, and the beach safely this summer.
The Water Safety Code is a perfect guide to keep yourself safe in and around the water. It consists of four basic rules to remember every time you venture into the water; Be Prepared, Look Out For Yourself and Others, Be Mindful of The Dangers, and Know Your Limits.
Important Reminders for Tourists
Animals | Dogs, other animals, and pets are forbidden at bookable sites and accommodation at all Auckland Council regional parks. Registered aid dogs are an exception. If you have a registered service dog with an exemption, you will need to remind our staff at the time of booking.
In all other areas of the park, unless otherwise stated in the dog-walking section, dogs have to be on their leash to keep them and the public safe at all times.
Alcohol | Visible and excessive consumption of alcohol is prohibited. We may ask you and your party to leave the park and your permit will be revoked.
Smoke-Free Parks | As in all city parks and reserves in Auckland, smoking is not allowed. Our parks are all smoke-free.
Waste Disposal | Please keep our parks and beaches litter-free. Garbage bins were provided in the vicinity to dispose of your rubbish. If there are no bins available, take any trash with you when you leave.
Outdoor Fires | All public areas within the Auckland Region have a strict fire ban. It is illegal to light an open fire at Bethells Beach and its surrounding areas.
