Auckland is spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful beaches, but heading to the beach with a baby or toddler requires a little more planning than it used to. Calm water, easy access, nearby facilities, and somewhere safe for your little one to sit or feed can make all the difference between a relaxing day out and an early pack up.
Whether you’re a new parent or wrangling a busy toddler, these are five of the best baby friendly beaches in Auckland, chosen for their accessibility, family facilities, and suitability for young children. We’ve also included tips to make beach days easier, especially when it comes to feeding and keeping your baby comfortable.
1. Mission Bay - Best All Round Beach for Families
Mission Bay is one of Auckland’s most popular beaches for families, and for good reason. The sheltered bay keeps the water relatively calm, making it ideal for babies and toddlers dipping their toes in for the first time.
Why Mission Bay works with a baby:
- Calm, shallow water
- Flat walking paths for prams
- Toilets, cafes and takeaway options nearby
- Lots of grass and picnic areas
For parents, having somewhere stable for baby to sit while feeding or playing is key. A portable baby chair like Roamie is perfect, easy to carry, quick to set up on grass or sand, and ideal for snack breaks between swims.
2. Long Bay - Space, Shade, and Calm Conditions
Located on Auckland’s North Shore, Long Bay is ideal if you’re looking for space and a more laid-back beach day. The beach is wide, with grassy areas, trees for shade, and a relaxed pace that suits families with young children.
Why parents love Long Bay:
- Large grassy reserve right by the beach
- Calm swimming conditions most days
- Toilets and showering facilities throughout the reserve
- Playground
Long Bay is perfect for setting up a small base for the day. A portable baby chair helps keep baby upright, supported, and comfortable while you enjoy a picnic or watch older siblings play.
3. Orewa Beach - Relaxed, Baby Friendly, and Easy to Spend the Day
Orewa Beach is a favourite for families looking for a calm, spacious beach with everything close by. Located just north of Auckland, it offers a long stretch of sand, gentle water, and excellent facilities, making it ideal for relaxed beach days with a baby.
Why Orewa works well with babies:
- Long, flat beach that is pram friendly
- Generally calm water
- Amazing cafes within walking distance
- Grassy areas and picnic spots just behind the sand
For longer beach days, having a comfortable place for your baby to sit and feed makes a big difference. Roamie’s lightweight, foldable baby chair makes it easy to carry and set up on sand or grass, helping you settle in and enjoy the day.
4. Castor Bay - Calm Water and a Laid Back Spot for Families
Castor Bay is a smaller, sheltered beach on Auckland’s North Shore that’s popular with local families. Its calm conditions, scenic setting, and relaxed pace make it a great option for parents wanting a quieter beach day with a baby.
Why Castor Bay works well with babies:
- Sheltered bay with generally calm, shallow water
- Smaller beach that’s easy to keep an eye on baby
- Toilets and picnic facilities nearby
- Grass and shaded areas just above the sand
For slower-paced beach visits, having a simple, supportive setup helps everyone relax. Roamie’s lightweight, foldable design makes it easy to bring along and set up on sand or grass, giving your baby a comfortable place to sit while you enjoy the surroundings.
Auckland has so many incredible beaches, and with the right setup, they can be enjoyed even with a baby in tow. Choosing baby friendly beaches and bringing practical, portable gear makes it easier to relax, feed, and spend quality time together outdoors