Muriwai Beach

Muriwai Beach is Auckland’s west coast at its wildest, with black sand, powerful surf and clifftop views across the Tasman Sea. At Ōtakamiro Point, the Takapu Refuge is home to a mainland gannet colony, with birds nesting roughly August to March.

Follow the Maukatia Gannet Track to viewing platforms above the cliffs, or explore the surrounding coastal walks and lookouts. The surf can be powerful and unpredictable, so only swim between the flags when lifeguards are on patrol.

Track access has been affected by storm damage and ongoing upgrades since 2023, so check Auckland Council’s current track status before you go. Muriwai is around a 45-minute drive west of The Chancellor on Hobson, with no public transport directly to the beach.