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Just 25 minutes north of Auckland, Orewa Beach is where countless Kiwi kids stand up on their first waves and adults from the city come to experience their first encounter with the sea. The long sandy shoreline and gentle, rolling surf make it perfect for beginners. Visitors love it because there’s easy parking and cafés right across the road. After a surf lesson, you can grab an ice cream, walk the beach promenade, or grab a drink at a local spot.
Why it’s great for beginners: mellow waves, easy access, family-friendly vibe.
For the best local surf lessons check out: https://orewasurflessons.co.nz/
Just south of Te Arai, Forestry Beach has a more sheltered and mellow feel, a longboarders dream some might say, although when Te Arai is too big or windy be sure that this beach will be having some epic waves for all levels to enjoy. Nestled beside the pine forest, it’s a magical spot where you will feel like you´re on a surf adventure. On smaller days, it’s one of the easiest and safest places for beginners to get their balance and start riding unbroken waves.
Why it’s great for learners: forgiving waves, a unique backdrop, and a quieter vibe compared to Te Arai.
To have daily webcam access to this spot, you might want to consider becoming a member of Goodsurfnow.co.nz
Te Arai is known as one of the most consistent surf beaches in the region. With plenty of space to spread out, it’s where beginners can progress from the basics to something a little more challenging. When it´s on, it is an epic beach break / right hand point break for the more experienced surfer, make it an amazing beach for all levels and ages. The waves here often are clean and mellow which makes it a great step-up spot once your groms have built some confidence and beginner/intermediates to learn dropping in green waves and trimming down the face of the wave. Everyone loves the wide sandy beach and beautiful natural setting. Also a great spot for beach days with its rest areas, bathrooms and van parking lot. You can even go horseback riding through the hill and see the beautiful scenery.
Why it’s special: consistent waves, a step-up for growing surfers, and a wild, open coastline.
Further north, Mangawhai Heads combines small-town charm with epic beginner waves. Families love it here because the beach offers something for everyone. The estuary is safe for little ones, while the main surf beach delivers fun, rolling waves for kids and teens learning to ride unbroken waves. And when the surf session is done, the whole family can refuel at Mangawhai’s cafés, bakeries, or weekend markets.
Why families choose Mangawhai: the variety, the vibe, and the chance to make a whole weekend of it.
Local surf lessons by the Mangas locals: https://mangawhaiheadssurfschool.com/
What makes the East Coast truly unbeatable for beginner surfers is not just the waves. It’s the whole experience. Parents and Visitors can relax knowing the beaches are patrolled in summer, the sand bottoms are safe, and professional surf schools operate at each spot. Add in local attractions like coastal walks, great food, and family-friendly parks, and you’ve got everything needed for an unforgettable surf day or weekend getaway.
Whether you are taking your very first lesson at Orewa, chasing your first “real” wave at Te Arai, finding adventure at Forestry, or spending a weekend at Mangawhai, these beaches set the stage for a lifetime of surfing. It’s not just about riding waves. It’s about building confidence, resilience, and stoke that stays with you forever.
ISA Certified instructor and Chief editor for Aotearoa Surf
NZ #1 qualified, experienced and proven surf school.
Surfing lessons, camps, programs & hire.
Kids, adults, women, youth, schools and teams.
Orewa, Te Arai, Mangawhai, Omaha, Piha.
