Exploring West Auckland by Campervan: Best Beaches & Camping Spots

For many campervan travellers exploring New Zealand’s North Island, Auckland is where the adventure begins. It’s the country’s biggest city and main international gateway. And with plenty of options for campervan hire near the airport and in the city, it’s easy to hit the road straight after you land.

Unlike many big cities, Auckland is surrounded by nature. Within an hour’s drive, you can go from downtown cafés to rainforest-covered hills, waterfalls, and beaches that feel completely wild.

This guide takes you to Auckland’s west coast. Below are some of our favourite beaches and campervan spots in the region.

Why the West Coast?

While Auckland’s east coast is known for calm bays and city beaches, it’s the west coast that really captures the wild side. Think black sand, crashing surf, and rugged cliffs, all just an hour from the city.

That black sand is one of the first things you’ll notice. It comes from volcanic rock that’s been washed down from the old Waitākere Ranges and shaped by the sea over time.

There’s so much to explore in this region of Auckland. Let’s check out some of the best beaches to visit on the west coast.

Best Beaches to Visit in West Auckland

Muriwai

If you want a proper taste of Auckland’s wild coast, Muriwai Beach is the place to start. It’s just under an hour’s drive from the city, depending on traffic. The beach stretches for miles along the Tasman Sea and perfectly captures the raw beauty of New Zealand’s west coast. The waves here can be powerful (and sometimes dangerous), so only swim when lifeguards are on duty.

One of Muriwai’s biggest drawcards is the gannet colony at Otakamiro Point, where hundreds of white gannets nest on the cliffs above the surf. This typically happens from August to March, and sometimes into April. Watching them dive and glide over the ocean is really special, and something you don’t want to miss.

Piha

Piha is very much the heart of Auckland’s west coast. Just under an hour from the city (depending on traffic), it’s known for its black sand and Lion Rock, the volcanic landmark that splits the beach in two.

But it’s perhaps most famous in New Zealand for its strong surf - so strong it inspired its own TV show, Piha Rescue. The waves here can be rough and unpredictable, so it’s best to swim only when lifeguards are on duty.

If you’d rather stay out of the surf, you can take a walk up to Kitekite Falls for a dip in the freshwater pools.

Te Henga (Bethells Beach)

Bethells Beach has that classic west coast feel but with a slightly softer edge. It’s around 45 minutes from the city and feels wonderfully remote, surrounded by sand dunes, native bush, and the sound of surf rolling in. It’s popular with surfers, dog walkers, and locals who come for sunset. It’s one of those places that feels peaceful even when it’s busy.

About two kilometres from the beach, tucked behind the sand dunes, is Lake Wainamu (also known as Bethells Lake). It’s the largest natural lake in the Waitakere Ranges. The walk there is half the fun, taking you across wide dunes before you reach the lake fringed by native bush. Follow the track around the lake and you’ll find Wainamu Falls nearby.

Karekare Beach

If you’ve ever seen The Piano, you may recognise this one. The opening scenes of this Oscar winning film were filmed right here, and it’s easy to see why. The beach is pure west coast drama: black sand, big waves, and cliffs wrapped in native bush.

Karekare Beach is just a short drive south of Piha. It’s one of the quieter beaches on the west coast, with black sand, rolling surf, and steep cliffs covered in native bush. There’s not much around (no shops or cafés) which is part of its charm.

Best Campervan Spots in West Auckland

Piha Domain Motor Camp (Powered Site)

If you’re planning to base yourself in Piha for a while, this powered campsite is a great pick. It’s got all the essentials, including a shared kitchen, showers, and laundry facilities. Plus, you’ll be right on the doorstep of Piha’s famous black-sand beach, Lion Rock, and some beautiful local bushwalks.

Muriwai Beach Campground (Powered Site)

Based just a few minutes’ walk from Muriwai Beach, this campground is a prime spot to park up and soak in the best of Auckland’s west coast. There are powered and unpowered sites for campervans, clean bathrooms, hot showers, a shared kitchen, and BBQ areas, so you’ve got everything you need for a comfy stay.

It’s also close to the local café and surf club, so you can grab a coffee in the morning or head down to the water for a sunset walk.

What to Expect When Campervanning on the West Coast

Campervanning on Auckland’s west coast is a very different experience from exploring the rest of the city, but that’s what makes it so special.

Here’s what to know before you hit the road:

1. The roads are narrow and windy - but the views are unreal.

The roads out west wind through forest and open up to epic ocean views, but they’re steep and narrow in spots, especially heading to Piha, Whatipu, and Anawhata. Take it slow, enjoy the scenery, and leave a little extra time for photo stops.

2. Campgrounds are smaller and simpler.

Expect a laid-back vibe and basic facilities rather than full holiday parks. Spots like Piha Domain and Muriwai Beach Campground have everything you need without losing that natural feel.

3. Freedom camping is limited.

If you’ve hired one of our campervans, like the Epic Plus, you may be wondering what the rules are about freedom camping. All our campervans meet the self-containment standards required for freedom camping in New Zealand.

However, freedom camping in West Auckland is quite restricted. This is because much of the coastline sits within protected parkland and conservation areas. Many of these beaches and reserves are managed by Auckland Council or the Department of Conservation (DOC).

Keep an eye on the Auckland Council website (and DOC) for up-to-date rules.

4. The beaches are wild.

As mentioned earlier, strong surf and rips are common in this region of Auckland, so always swim between the flags and check Safeswim before getting in the water.

Time to Hit the Road

Ready to book your campervan and start exploring West Auckland? Epic Campers is just an eight-minute drive from the airport, so you can hit the road as soon as you land.

We’ve got options for every kind of traveller, including newer, modern setups like The Duo or classic, budget-friendly choices like The Epic Original.

Get a quote now and start your New Zealand adventure.

Safe travels!