Long Bay Regional Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Long Bay Regional Park?
What makes it 90% Kids-Friendly: Kids have a large all-abilities playground, lifeguarded shallow beach, BBQ lawns and an easy 1 km nature loop; many toilets with change rooms help parents handle meals, sand and wet clothes.
Positives:
- Free facilities: Playground, BBQs, toilets and showers are all free to use.
- Easy access: Flat paths and close car parks make moving between spots simple.
Challenges:
- Limited parking: Car parks fill by late morning on weekends—come early.
- Sun exposure: Few shaded beach spots—bring hats and a pop-up shelter.
What is Long Bay Regional Park?
- A coastal regional park on Auckland’s North Shore, extending along Long Bay beach and the Okura Estuary
- A protected landscape of sandy shoreline, estuarine wetlands, regenerating native forest and rolling farmland adjoining the Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve
- A Council-managed reserve that incorporates heritage features such as the 19th-century Vaughan Homestead and extensive cliff-top walking tracks
What is so special about Long Bay Regional Park for with kids?
- Inclusive all-abilities playground with swings and flying fox
- Short, wildlife-rich nature trail perfect for little explorers
- Shallow, calm beach with summer lifeguards
- Free picnic tables and BBQs beneath native trees
- Optional kayak hire for an extra splash of adventure
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives enough time for playground, beach play and a relaxed picnic without tiring younger kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Long Bay Regional Park
All-Abilities Playground:
Let kids zoom down slides, swing on bucket seats and ride the flying fox.
Tip: Bring spare socks and supervise on the flying fox for safety.
Nature Trail Loop:
Easy 1.1 km loop through wetlands to spot pūkeko and ducks.
Tip: Pack binoculars or a camera to capture bird sightings.
Beach Swimming:
Gently sloping sand and calm water ideal for young swimmers.
Tip: Always swim between the red-and-yellow flags and use flotation aids.
Picnic & BBQ:
Free electric and wood-fired BBQs under pōhutukawa trees.
Tip: Arrive early to claim a BBQ station and bring reusable plates and cutlery.
Family Kayaking:
Hire sit-on kayaks for a fun paddle in Long Bay waters.
Tip: Book kayak hire in advance and fit lifejackets tightly on children.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Long Bay Regional Park
- Early start: Arrive at opening to secure parking and a popular BBQ site.
- Tide check: Use an app to check tide times for safe beach and rock-pool play.
- Gear drop: Unload bulky items at the nearest car park before exploring.
Reviews of Long Bay Regional Park
S v
This place is really good for picnic and camping. More than 1 km space on this bay.
Saadia Siddiqa
Good place Huge ground area to larty, relax n camp Nice beach are but all areas usually crowded not excessive but pretty much.. Shower in front of changing rooms And huge changing areas for male n female Would be better if showers were installed inside aswel Rooms need few hanging hoooks Overall a good place for family picnics or outdoor parties 🥳
DK Guide
I loved staing there overnight. Quiet, close to the beach and you hear the waves. Just a loveley beach and park space.
Chathura Weragoda
Awesome place to be and really nice walking track with great views
Alli Rokke
One of my favourite places on Earth. A lovely long linear regional park with a fun playground for kids, picnic areas, a beautiful beach, an old homestead and a gorgeous coastal walkway.
When is the best time to visit Long Bay Regional Park (Auckland, New Zealand)?
In summer swim between flags and use sunscreen. In spring watch pōhutukawa bloom and go kite flying on windy days. In cooler months pack layers and check tide times before beach play.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Picnic ingredients and snacks | NZD 30 |
| 1-hour kayak hire | NZD 40 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 70 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Long Bay Regional Park
Address: Beach Road, Long Bay, Auckland 0792, New Zealand
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About Long Bay Regional Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 9 301 010110 BEST nearby Activities
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