Sun, Sand & Surf: Discover the Best Beaches Near Tepee Matakana
Updated: Sep 30
Beaches Around the Matakana Coast
The Matakana Coast has plenty of beaches to explore, from the long stretch of Omaha to the sheltered waters of Mathesons Bay and the coastline around Tāwharanui.
Whether you want to surf, swim, snorkel or spend a few hours on the sand, there are plenty of options within an easy drive of Tepee.
Here are a few of our favourites.
Omaha Beach
About 10 minutes from Tepee, Omaha Beach is one of the easiest beaches to get to from Tepee.
The long stretch of sand is popular for swimming, surfing, walking and bodyboarding, with plenty of space to find a quieter spot away from the main areas.
Why visit:
Good surf conditions for beginners and improvers
Lifeguards during the summer season
Dunes and boardwalks for an easy walk along the beach
It's also an easy place to spend a morning before heading back to Matakana for coffee or lunch.
Tāwharanui Regional Park
A little further along the coast, Tāwharanui Regional Park is worth setting aside a few hours for.
The peninsula has beaches, coastal tracks, native bush and open farmland, all within the regional park. Anchor Bay is a popular place for swimming and surfing, while the Ecology Trail gives you a chance to explore further inland.
Keep an eye out for native birds as you walk, and take some time to explore the smaller beaches and coves around the park.
The road into the park is unsealed, so allow a little extra time for the drive. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.
Goat Island Marine Reserve
Near Leigh, Goat Island Marine Reserve is a different way to experience the coast.
New Zealand's first marine reserve is home to a wide range of marine life, including snapper, blue maomao and stingrays. You can snorkel from the beach, hire equipment or join a guided dive with Goat Island Dive & Snorkel. The Goat Island Discovery Centre is also worth a visit if you'd like to learn more about the marine reserve.
Afterwards, stop in Leigh for something to eat before heading back to Tepee.
Mathesons Bay
Just beyond Leigh, Mathesons Bay is smaller and more sheltered than the open beaches around Omaha and Tāwharanui.
It's a good place for a swim, paddleboard or a quiet afternoon with a book. There's also a short bush walk from the car park if you feel like exploring beyond the beach.
On a calm day, bring your snorkel and explore around the rocks.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Timing: Early morning and late afternoon are often quieter times to visit the beaches.
Tides: If you're planning a coastal walk or exploring around the rocks, check the tide before you go.
What to bring: Sunscreen, a hat, water, a towel and something to eat are always useful. A rain jacket is worth packing too — the weather on the coast can change quickly.
Surfboards: Keen to hire a surboard- get in touch with us!
Look after the coast: Stick to marked tracks, take your rubbish with you and give wildlife plenty of space. You may come across nesting shorebirds or other native wildlife along the way.
Back to Tepee
After a day at the beach, it's a short drive back to Tepee.
Rinse off, put your feet up and settle into your tepee, or head down to the shared outdoor space. There’s a fire pit, so you can stay outside a little longer.
You can also book a session in our forest sauna — a warm, quiet way to finish the day.
