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4 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Leave the hustle and bustle of the City behind, come and enjoy our native Waitakere Ranges, Arataki Visitor Centre, local nature, flora and fauna, Māori history, and stunning panoramic views of both harbours, then continue onto Piha Beach with its black sand, volcanic cliff faces, wild surf and a few other hidden gems along the way, paradise at its finest.
(Min 2 pax)
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Piha Beach
Visit the beautiful Piha Beach out the wild west, famous for its black sand, surfing, volcanic cliff face and lovely scenic views with photo opportunities. Experience amazing views of both harbours, see and hear about our native trees and wildlife before a short walk to the lookout, the start of the Hillary Trail. Rainforest trek, up to the amazing Kitekite Falls, enjoy a summer swim underneath the falls. Then it’s onto the stunning black sand beach where you will see the treasures Piha has to offer.
Pickup included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pick up
Lunch
Select a pickup point
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
13 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
agnesMeHi,Feb 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very nice beach, or various beaches, depending on whether is high tide or low tide. Black (hot) sand. I was there on Saturdays and it had quite a lot of visitors (not as much as in Rimini ;) ) But even then it is worth a visit it could be difficult at most to find a parking space. Access to Lion Rock is closed, you can no longer climb up.

B3996YJkarenl,Oct 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Piha Beach is breathtaking—black sand, rugged cliffs, and powerful waves. Perfect spot for a scenic walk or just soaking in dramatic New Zealand coastline vibes.
75rioj,Sep 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We visited Piha Beach, renowned for its dramatic black volcanic sand, roaring surf, and iconic Lion Rock vista—it was the perfect backdrop for our own spontaneous adventure. The rugged cliffs and waves make it a surfer's dream, while the scenery is astonishingly photogenic—truly more stunning than many other black sand beaches we've seen.
moodblu,Mar 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We went on a tour from Auckland that took us to the Phia Beach, a beautiful black sand beach with an awesome rock formation called Lion Rock. It was well worth our time to go to this beach. Our guide did us a little demonstration with a magnet, showing that there was a significant amount of bits of iron in the sand. He explained that it is carried in and deposited by the action of the ocean on the lava rock. The ocean waves were beautiful at this location. We were warned not to go into the water as there were rip tides and currents that could be very dangerous. It was a very windy day, and I don’t know if that causes this type of tides. This was an interesting location and we had a great time taking pictures of the ocean, beach and surrounding rock formations.





angchweeleng,Jan 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
A very unusual beach. The strong current, choppy waves and black sand makes a very picturesque although windy place. Be careful if you are near or at the waters as there were cases of the strong currents pulling people out to sea.



Joseph C,Jan 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
Had an amazing time visiting Piha beach and Mt. Eden with Brett as our guide. Brett was a great guide. Would definitely recommend this tour.
petesargearing,Jun 8, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
A short drive from Auckland CBD, you get to this wonderful beach that has several spots to explore. Waves can get aggressive so must be careful. There is also a small strip of food and beverage places - would highly recommend packing a picnic basket!
nicole,Jan 7, 2024
- Review from Viator
Thank you Brett for a fantastic tour of Piha Beach, we thoroughly enjoyed it. Would highly recommend Brett to other travellers. Very friendly and accomodating.
james t,Dec 2, 2023
- Review from Viator
Fantastic trip. Incredibly beautiful and scenic beach. Loved the walk through the rainforest. Driver was very knowledgeable of the area. Great pictures. Wonderful experience.
Reed S,Aug 5, 2023
- Review from Viator
This tour was wonderful! Brett took us to Piha beach and a nearby rainforest. The whole time he shared history and interesting facts about New Zealand while showing us the beautiful scenery. We walked around Piha beach and the cove and then had lunch in a village on the way back into town. It was a great experience!
Operated by NZ ADVENTURE TOURS