Quick Facts
📍 Location: Waiake Beach Reserve, Torbay Auckland
🏖️ Beach length: ~0.45 km
🕓 Best time: Morning or low tide
🚗 Parking: On-street at Waiake Reserve
🚻 Facilities: Toilets, showers, changing sheds
The Walk: Distance and Duration
The beach is part of the North Shore Coastal Walk
A 23–31 km scenic route stretching from Long Bay to Devonport, taking around 6–7 hours if completed in full.
Shorter walks between neighbouring bays are perfect for casual strollers;
Waiake itself is only about 450 metres long, ideal for a peaceful beach wander.
(Tip: Check tides — several coastal sections are only accessible at low tide.)
The Experience: North Shore’s Quiet Gem
Walk the beach and paddleboard in calm waters
Climb The Tor (tide permitting) & picnic on the reserve
Continue coastal path toward Browns Bay or Long Bay
Relax and enjoy the golden glow over the Hauraki Gulf
Nearby cafés in Torbay Village or Browns Bay make for perfect coffee stops after your swim or walk.
Reviews and Local Impressions
Visitor Impressions ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.7/5 average)
“Gorgeous and photogenic. Great tidal pools and calm water.” – Wanderlog
“Perfect for families. Beautiful scenery, clean facilities, and a cozy vibe.” – Google Reviews
“I’ve loved Waiake since childhood — walking to The Tor at low tide never gets old.” – Yelp Review
Facilities include toilets, showers, and parking along the reserve.
The Tor can be explored on foot at low tide but is slippery when wet, so caution is advised.