Kerikeri Beaches & Swimming Spots

Discover the best beaches and swimming spots in Kerikeri, including dog-friendly options. Enjoy the beautiful waterways of the Bay of Islands with our local insider guide.

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Kerikeri's Hidden Swimming Gems

Kerikeri isn't right on the coast, but it has some of the best freshwater swimming spots in Northland and you can easily drive to beautiful Bay of Islands beaches.

Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands have lots of great places to swim. You can choose from cool river swimming holes along the Kerikeri River or beautiful beaches just a short drive away - there's something for everyone!

We're locals who've spent years checking out all these spots. We've put together this guide to help you find the best places to cool off and enjoy our beautiful area. Whether you want a family-friendly spot, a quiet place to relax, or somewhere your dog can have fun too, we've got great options for you.

Many of these swimming spots are just a short drive from our accommodation at Kerigold Chalets, making them perfect for day trips during your stay with us.

Local Tip

The best time for swimming in Kerikeri is from December to March when water temperatures are warmest (around 19-22°C). Always check local conditions and tides before heading out.

Popular Kerikeri Swimming Spots

Discover these local favorites for cooling off in Kerikeri's beautiful freshwater locations

Freshwater Swimming Hole Rock Jumping

Charlie's Rock

5/5

Charlie's Rock is a favorite local swimming hole on the Kerikeri River, with a big rock that's perfect for jumping into the cool, deep water below. You can get there with a short walk through the bush. It's a real Kiwi swimming spot that visitors staying at Kerikeri accommodation should definitely check out.

Located off Landing Road, approximately 3km from Kerikeri town center

Limited parking available at the track entrance

5-10 minute walk through native bush to reach the swimming hole

No facilities - bring everything you need

Local Tip

Visit Charlie's Rock early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds during summer. Always check water depth before jumping and be aware that water levels can change after heavy rain.

Waterfall Freshwater Scenic

Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa)

4/5

Rainbow Falls is one of Kerikeri's most famous natural spots, with a beautiful 27-meter waterfall and a big swimming hole at the bottom. It's easy to get to and great for swimming in a really pretty setting. Many people staying at Kerikeri accommodation say it's their favorite place to swim in the area.

Located at the end of Rainbow Falls Road, 3km from Kerikeri town center

Large parking area with good facilities

Public toilets available

Short walk to viewing platforms and swimming area

Historic Freshwater Family-Friendly

Kerikeri Basin

4/5

The Kerikeri Basin has some nice swimming spots near the historic Stone Store and Kemp House. You can enjoy a cool swim here after checking out New Zealand's oldest buildings. When looking for places to stay in Kerikeri, think about how close they are to this historic area.

Located at the end of Kerikeri Road, near the Stone Store

Ample parking available at the Stone Store Basin

Cafes and facilities nearby

Historic site with swimming opportunities

Ocean Beach Scenic Swimming

Matauri Bay

5/5

Matauri Bay is one of the prettiest beaches in the Bay of Islands, with clear blue water and white sand. It's about a 30-minute drive from Kerikeri, but well worth it for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. Lots of people staying at Kerikeri accommodation take a day trip to enjoy this beautiful beach.

Located 30km north of Kerikeri (30-minute drive)

Parking available at the beach

Basic toilet facilities available

Great for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling

Local Tip

Visit the Rainbow Warrior memorial at the top of the hill for spectacular views over the bay and Cavalli Islands. The walk is steep but worth it for the panoramic vistas.

Ocean Beach Surfing Family-Friendly

Taupo Bay

5/5

Taupo Bay is a beautiful white-sand beach about 45 minutes north of Kerikeri. It's great for swimming, surfing, and fishing. The water is super clear and the scenery is lovely, making it a perfect day trip from your Kerikeri accommodation.

Located 45km north of Kerikeri (45-minute drive)

Parking available near the beach

Public toilets and changing facilities

Camping ground nearby (seasonal)

Local Tip

The northern end of Taupo Bay is more sheltered and better for swimming when there's a swell. If you're into surfing, the southern end offers good waves when conditions are right.

Hidden Gem Rock Pools

Fairy Pools

4.5/5

The Fairy Pools are natural swimming holes on the Kerikeri River. The river flows over smooth rocks to make these magical little pools that are perfect for swimming. It's a local secret that many people staying at Kerikeri accommodation don't know about, but locals love it.

Located on the Kerikeri River, approximately 2km from Kerikeri town center

10-minute walk from the Rainbow Falls car park

Best visited during summer when water levels are lower

No facilities - bring everything you need

Local Tip

The Fairy Pools can be accessed by following the Kerikeri River Track downstream from Rainbow Falls. Bring water shoes as the rocks can be slippery, and be cautious of water levels after heavy rain.

Ocean Beach Sheltered Family-Friendly

Opito Bay

4.5/5

Opito Bay is a pretty, sheltered bay just 15 minutes from Kerikeri. The water is calm and clear, making it great for swimming and kayaking. You get beautiful views of the Bay of Islands, and it's nice and peaceful - that's why families staying at Kerikeri accommodation love it so much.

Located 12km east of Kerikeri (15-minute drive)

Limited parking available at the beach

Basic toilet facilities available

Shallow, calm waters ideal for children

Local Tip

Visit Opito Bay at low tide to explore the small rock pools that form along the shoreline. The bay is also a great spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, with rental options available in Kerikeri.

Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Kerikeri

Bring your four-legged friends to these pet-friendly beaches and swimming spots

Doves Bay

4/5 for dogs

Doves Bay is a hit with dog owners visiting Kerikeri. It has a small beach where dogs can swim and play. The bay is sheltered with calm water, which is great for dogs who like swimming but get scared in big waves. When looking for pet-friendly places to stay in Kerikeri, check how close they are to this dog-friendly beach.

Located in Doves Bay, 5km from Kerikeri town center

Limited parking available

Dogs allowed off-leash in designated areas

Calm, sheltered waters ideal for dogs

Waitangi Beach

4.5/5 for dogs

Waitangi Beach has a long shoreline where dogs can run around and have fun. Some parts allow dogs all year, while others have rules that change with the seasons. There's lots of room for dogs to explore and meet other dogs. It's not far from Kerikeri and many people staying at Kerikeri accommodation bring their pets here.

Located in Waitangi, 10km from Kerikeri (15-minute drive)

Good parking facilities available

Check seasonal restrictions for specific areas

Public toilets and facilities nearby

Te Haumi Beach

4/5 for dogs

Te Haumi Beach is quieter than Waitangi Beach, which is great for dogs who don't like crowds. The beach has both sand and pebbles with shallow spots for dogs to enter the water. It's easy to get to from Kerikeri and we suggest it for visitors staying at Kerikeri accommodation who want a more private beach day with their dogs.

Located between Paihia and Waitangi, 12km from Kerikeri

Small parking area available

Dogs allowed on-leash year-round

Less crowded than other beaches

Local Tip for Dog Owners

Always carry fresh water for your dog, especially when visiting beaches. Salt water can make dogs sick if they drink too much, and the hot sand can quickly dehydrate them.

Remember to bring waste bags and clean up after your pet to keep our beaches beautiful for everyone.

If you're staying with us, check out our Pet-Friendly Accommodation Options at Kerigold Chalets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Kerikeri beaches and swimming spots

What is the best swimming spot in Kerikeri for families with young children?

When is the best time of year to swim in Kerikeri?

Are there any dangerous swimming spots to avoid in Kerikeri?

Which Kerikeri beaches have lifeguards?

Can I bring my dog to all Kerikeri beaches?

Stay at Kerigold Chalets and Explore Kerikeri's Swimming Spots

Our comfortable accommodation is the perfect base for exploring all the beautiful beaches and swimming spots Kerikeri has to offer.

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