Kohimarama Beach, located in Auckland, New Zealand, has a rich history that dates back to the early Maori settlement. The area was originally known as “Kohimarama,” meaning “gathering place for the seashells.” In the 19th century, European settlers arrived, and the beach became a popular spot for recreation and relaxation. Over the years, Kohimarama has evolved from a quiet coastal area to a vibrant suburban beach, maintaining its natural beauty while developing amenities for locals and visitors. Today, it remains a cherished spot for both its historical significance and its serene, picturesque environment.
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Overview of Kohimarama Beach
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- Address: Kohimarama Beach, Tamaki Drive, Auckland, New Zealand
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Parking Fee: Free, but limited availability
- When to Go: Best time is summer (December to February) and autumn (March to May)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Kohimarama Road at Allum Street (5-minute walk)
- Nearest Railway Station: Britomart Station, Auckland (approximately 15-minute drive)
- Nearest Airport: Auckland Airport (approximately 30-minute drive)
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Best Time to Visit Kohi Beach
The best time to visit Kohimarama Beach is during the summer months from December to February, when temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F), perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. This period also coincides with New Zealand’s festive season, adding a vibrant atmosphere with numerous events and activities. The extended daylight hours allow for long, enjoyable days at the beach. For those seeking a quieter experience, autumn (March to May) offers mild temperatures, averaging between 15°C and 22°C (59°F to 72°F), and fewer crowds, providing a more relaxed and peaceful visit.
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3-Day Itinerary for Kohimarama Beach Tour
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Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
Morning:
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- Check-In: Settle into your hotel, like Stay Coastal – Mission Bay or Aarangi Motel.
- Beach Stroll: Kick things off with a relaxing walk along Kohimarama Beach to get a feel for the area.
Afternoon:
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- Lunch: Grab a tasty lunch at Kohi Beach Eatery & Store.
- Sun and Swim: Spend your afternoon sunbathing and swimming.
Evening:
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- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Der Metz Restaurant.
- Sunset Walk: Take an evening walk along the beach and enjoy the sunset.
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Day 2: Adventure and Exploration
Morning:
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- Water Sports: Start the day with paddleboarding or kayaking.
- Coffee: Recharge with a coffee at Santa Brew Coffee NZ.
Afternoon:
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- Picnic: Have a picnic lunch at Kohimarama Beach Reserve with takeaways from Kohi Fresh Fish & Takeaways.
- Explore: Check out the rock pools and do some birdwatching.
Evening:
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- Burgers: Enjoy a casual dinner at Downlow Burgers – Kohimarama.
- Relax: Chill on the beach and unwind.
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Day 3: Nearby Attractions and Farewell
Morning:
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- Breakfast: Treat yourself to breakfast and ice cream at Movenpick Mission Bay.
- Bastion Point: Drive to Bastion Point for amazing views and explore the gardens.
Afternoon:
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- Cycling: Rent a bike and cycle to Mission Bay and St Heliers. Stop for lunch at a beachfront café.
- Sea View Bridge: Visit Sea View Bridge for stunning coastal views.
Evening:
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- Farewell Dinner: Have a final dinner at a beachfront restaurant.
- Final Walk: Take one last walk along the beach before heading home.
Enjoy your trip! This plan should give you a great mix of relaxation, adventure, and exploration at Kohimarama Beach.
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Distance from Nearest Cities to Kohi Beach
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- Auckland City Center: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) – About 15 minutes by car.
- Takapuna: Approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) – About 20 minutes by car.
- Manukau: Approximately 22 kilometers (13.5 miles) – About 25 minutes by car.
- Papakura: Approximately 34 kilometers (21 miles) – About 35 minutes by car.
- Henderson: Approximately 26 kilometers (16 miles) – About 30 minutes by car.
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How to reach Kohimarama Beach
From Auckland City Center: Head east on Customs Street East, continue on Stanley Street, merge into The Strand, and turn right onto Tamaki Drive. Follow Tamaki Drive for about 7 kilometers to the beach.
From Takapuna: Head southeast on Lake Road, left onto Esmonde Road, merge onto State Highway 1 (SH1) towards Auckland, take the Port Exit, and follow The Strand to Tamaki Drive. Continue for about 7 kilometers to the beach.
From Manukau: Head north on Great South Road, merge onto State Highway 20 (SH20), then onto State Highway 1 (SH1) towards Auckland. Take the Port Exit, follow The Strand to Tamaki Drive, and continue for about 7 kilometers to the beach.
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Routes to Kohimarama Beach
From Auckland City Center:
Customs Street East → Stanley Street → The Strand → Tamaki Drive → Kohimarama Beach
From Takapuna:
Lake Road → Esmonde Road → State Highway 1 (SH1) → Port Exit → The Strand → Tamaki Drive → Kohimarama Beach
From Manukau:
Great South Road → State Highway 20 (SH20) → State Highway 1 (SH1) → Port Exit → The Strand → Tamaki Drive → Kohimarama Beach
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Activities to Enjoy at Kohimarama Beach
Water Sports
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- Swimming: Enjoy the calm, clear waters perfect for swimmers of all levels.
- Paddleboarding: Rent a paddleboard and explore the serene sea.
- Kayaking: Rent a kayak for a peaceful paddle along the coastline.
Land-Based Activities
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- Beach Volleyball: Set up a net and play with friends.
- Jogging and Walking: Use the long promenade for a scenic stroll or jog.
- Cycling: Bike along the pathway connecting nearby beaches.
Relaxation and Leisure
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- Sunbathing: Relax on the golden sands with a book and sunscreen.
- Picnicking: Enjoy a meal in shaded picnic areas or grassy spots.
- Meditation and Yoga: Practice mindfulness in a tranquil beach setting.
Wildlife and Nature
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- Birdwatching: Spot various seabirds along the shore.
- Exploring Rock Pools: Discover marine life in the rock pools at low tide.
Kohi Beach offers diverse activities for all interests and ages, making it an ideal destination for a fun and memorable day by the sea.
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Nearby Places to Kohimarama Beach
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- Kohimarama Beach Reserve – 1 min: Just a minute’s walk from the beach, the Kohimarama Beach Reserve offers a lush green space perfect for picnics and relaxation. With shaded areas and benches, it provides a great spot to unwind after a day on the sand, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and sea breeze.
- Kohimarama Presbyterian Church – 4 min: Located a short four-minute walk from the beach, Kohimarama Presbyterian Church is a charming and welcoming place of worship. The church, with its warm community atmosphere, often hosts events and services that add to the local cultural experience.
- Kohimarama Yacht Club – 1 min: Adjacent to the beach, the Kohimarama Yacht Club is a hub for sailing enthusiasts. The club offers sailing programs for all ages and skill levels, making it an excellent place to learn the ropes or enjoy competitive sailing in the Hauraki Gulf.
- Kohimarama Tennis Club – 7 min: A brief seven-minute walk from the beach, the Kohimarama Tennis Club features well-maintained courts available for both casual and competitive play. It’s an ideal spot for tennis lovers looking to hit a few balls in a friendly and vibrant setting.
- Sea View Bridge – 4 min: Just four minutes away, Sea View Bridge offers picturesque views of the coastline and the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely walk, providing great photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
- Bastion Point – 5 min by car: A five-minute drive from Kohimarama Beach, Bastion Point is a historical and scenic location with panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. The site is rich in cultural history and features beautifully landscaped gardens, making it a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
- Okahu Bay Wharf Fishing Pier: Not far from Kohimarama Beach, the Okahu Bay Wharf Fishing Pier is a favorite spot for anglers. The pier provides excellent opportunities for fishing in a serene environment, with the chance to catch a variety of fish while enjoying stunning coastal views.
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Kohi Beach Cafe
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- Kohi Beach Eatery & Store – 1 min: Just a minute’s walk from Kohimarama Beach, Kohi Beach Eatery & Store offers a delightful array of breakfast and brunch options. Known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking in the beachside views.
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- Santa Brew Coffee NZ – 1 min: Also only a minute away, Santa Brew Coffee NZ is a cozy café specializing in quality coffee and delicious pastries. Whether you’re in need of a morning caffeine fix or a sweet treat after a beach day, this café is a convenient and welcoming option.
- Kohi Fresh Fish & Takeaways – 7 min: A short seven-minute walk will take you to Kohi Fresh Fish & Takeaways, a local favorite for its fresh seafood and classic fish and chips. Ideal for a casual meal, this spot offers generous portions and a taste of New Zealand’s beloved takeaway cuisine.
- Downlow Burgers – Kohimarama: Conveniently located, Downlow Burgers serves up mouthwatering burgers with a variety of gourmet toppings. Known for their juicy patties and inventive flavors, this is a great place to grab a satisfying meal after a day at the beach.
- Der Metz Restaurant – 1 min: Just a minute from the beach, Der Metz Restaurant provides a unique dining experience with its fusion of European and New Zealand cuisine. The restaurant offers a cozy, elegant setting and is renowned for its exceptional service and beautifully presented dishes.
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- Movenpick Mission Bay – 2 min: A short two-minute walk brings you to Movenpick Mission Bay, a popular spot for indulgent ice cream and desserts. With a wide selection of flavors and high-quality ingredients, it’s the perfect place to cool down and treat yourself on a sunny day by the sea.
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Nearby Hotels to Kohimarama Beach
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- Stay Coastal – Mission Bay – 2 min by car: Just a quick two-minute drive from Kohimarama Beach, Stay Coastal offers modern and comfortable accommodations in the heart of Mission Bay. With its chic decor and convenient location, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the nearby beach and dining options.
- Kohimarama Lodge – 4 min: A four-minute walk from the beach, Kohimarama Lodge provides cozy and welcoming lodgings perfect for families and solo travelers.
- Aarangi Motel – 2 min: Situated a mere two minutes from Kohimarama Beach, Aarangi Motel is a 3-star establishment offering clean and affordable accommodations. The motel’s prime location and budget-friendly rates make it an ideal option for travelers.
- Okahu Bay Villas – 6 min by car: A six-minute drive from the beach, Okahu Bay Villas offer luxurious and spacious accommodations with stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf. These villas are perfect for those seeking a more private and upscale stay.
- The Bays Bed & Breakfast – 2 min: Just a short two-minute drive from Kohimarama Beach, The Bays Bed & Breakfast provides a charming and intimate lodging experience. Known for its warm hospitality and delicious breakfasts, it’s an ideal choice for couples and solo travelers looking for a home-away-from-home atmosphere.
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Important FAQs for Visiting Kohimarama Beach
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Q: What is the best time to visit Kohimarama Beach?
A: The best time to visit Kohimarama Beach is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Autumn (March to May) is also a good time, offering mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Q: How do I get to Kohimarama Beach from Auckland City Center?
A: You can reach Kohimarama Beach by driving east on Customs Street East, continuing onto Stanley Street, merging into The Strand, and then turning right onto Tamaki Drive. Follow Tamaki Drive for about 7 kilometers to the beach.
Q: Are there facilities available at Kohimarama Beach?
A: Yes, Kohimarama Beach has several facilities, including public restrooms, changing rooms, showers, picnic areas, and barbecue spots. There are also nearby cafes and restaurants for dining.
Q: Is there parking available at Kohimarama Beach?
A: Yes, there is parking available along Tamaki Drive, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
Q: What activities can I do at Kohimarama Beach?
A: Kohimarama Beach offers a variety of activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, beach volleyball, jogging, walking, cycling, sunbathing, picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring rock pools.
Q: Are there places to eat near Kohimarama Beach?
A: Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants near Kohimarama Beach, including Kohi Beach Eatery & Store, Santa Brew Coffee NZ, Kohi Fresh Fish & Takeaways, Downlow Burgers, and Der Metz Restaurant.
Q: Can I rent water sports equipment at Kohimarama Beach?
A: Yes, you can rent paddleboards and kayaks from local vendors at the beach.
Q: Is Kohimarama Beach family-friendly?
A: Yes, Kohimarama Beach is very family-friendly, with calm waters suitable for swimming, ample space for beach games, and facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas.
Q: Are pets allowed at Kohimarama Beach?
A: Pets are generally not allowed on the main beach area, especially during peak times. It’s best to check local regulations or signs at the beach for specific rules regarding pets.
Q: What should I bring for a day at Kohimarama Beach?
A: You should bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a picnic blanket, snacks or a picnic lunch, water, and a good book or beach games. If you plan to engage in water sports, you might also want to bring or rent the necessary equipment.