Katy RosserHad enough of crowded beaches, relentless waves, and sand sticking to everything? This summer, why not ditch oceans for lakes and waterfalls and discover some of the best swimming holes in Auckland?
There sure are plenty scattered around, but we’ve rounded up only the very best swimming holes in the city for you to dive into. It’s time to check them out!
Oakley Creek Falls
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Website: http://temp.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/EN/parksfacilities/parksall/Pages/home2.aspx
Address: 1520 Great North Road, Waterview, Auckland 1026, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 301 0101
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you’re up for a refreshing swim not too far from the bustling CBD, Oakley Creek Falls is the ultimate spot, just a 15-minute journey away. Known for its natural beauty, this hidden gem boasts a stunning waterfall where you can unwind and recharge.
Start with a leisurely stroll from Oakley Creek Reserve, and before you know it, you’ll find yourself standing before the breathtaking six-meter cascade and the inviting swimming hole that pulls you to dive right in.
Once you’ve had your fill of water fun (or perhaps before you take the plunge), why not extend your trip with a relaxed 20-minute walk? The lush green surroundings offer unmatched peace and it’s a good warm-up too before or after dipping in the waters.
Additionally, with ample space around the water, you can even have a mini picnic in the area, So, you can back, and savor the quietness that the business district can never offer.
Karekare Falls
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Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/default.aspx
Address: Huia, Karekare 0772, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 22 175 8614
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you’re planning a visit to Karekare Beach, make the most out of it by taking a hike to Karekare Falls, where a refreshing freshwater swimming hole awaits!
Don’t worry, it’s only a short, uphill walk from the beach car park (about 10 minutes’ walk, easy and accessible), and totally worth the effort.
Once there, you’ll encounter a stunning waterfall approximately 30 meters tall, with clear fresh water spilling into a cool swimming hole. Feel free to take a dip, but remember to swim at your own risk, as the water here can be a bit challenging!
Besides the falls and swimming hole, there’s also a picnic table where you can capture some stunning long-exposure photos of the falls (ideal for Instagram) or simply enjoy a snack with your friends.
Kitekite Falls
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Address: Piha 0772, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 301 0101
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
You’ve probably visited Piha Beach before, and maybe you’ve even tried climbing Lion Rock, but did you know there’s a stunning waterfall nearby? That’s Kitekite Falls for you!
To get there, just follow the boardwalk-based track from the beach, and you’ll be treated to the sight of this waterfall.
At the bottom of the waterfall, there’s a beautiful, spacious swimming hole. It’s perfectly safe to take a dip here, even though the water might be a bit chilly – just think of it as the ideal way to cool off on a hot day.
And if that’s not enough, there’s another trail in the area that you can hike, leading you up to the top of the waterfall. Just a heads up – it’s a bit steep, so it’s not suitable for everyone!
But once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views overlooking the valley and a few more swimming holes. The first one is large and deep, set back from the cliff edge, making it perfect for families or anyone seeking a safe spot to splash around.
The other one is smaller and tucked away over the cliff, offering a more adventurous experience. It may not be as large, but the views are unbeatable, and it’s great for a leisurely swim.
Lake Wainamu
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Address: Auckland 0781, New Zealand
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Often overshadowed by the black-sand beaches of Piha and Bethells, Lake Wainamu is actually one of Auckland’s best-kept secrets for swimming. Getting there involves a one-hour hike from the Bethells Beach car park, but it’s totally worth it.
The lake itself is perfect for swimming, with its calm waters. However, it’s important to note that it gets deep very quickly, so if you’re not a confident swimmer, it’s best to stay closer to shore.
You can also take a leisurely walk around the lake on a proper track that goes all the way around.
It takes about an hour or two, but it’s worth it because hidden behind the lake is a lovely swimming hole with a waterfall where you can take a dip – just be prepared for the cold water!
This swimming hole is quite popular, so it can get crowded at times, especially on weekends and during the summer months. So, be cool and share the space with others.
Hunua Falls
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Website: http://regionalparks.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/hunuafalls
Address: Hunua Ranges Regional Park Falls Road, Hunua 2583, New Zealand
Contact details: +64 9 301 0101
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Huana Falls at this popular swimming spot, located 45 minutes south of Auckland, is one of the tallest in the region, standing at a whopping 30 meters high. The waterfall is situated in the Hunua Falls Reserve on the western side of the Hunua Ranges Regional Park.
There’s an easy 15-minute walk along the track that follows the stream, which leads you to a lookout platform where you can view the waterfall.
If you’re up for more adventure, you can continue along the track that descends through the forest to the base of the Hunua Falls and the swimming hole.
Here, you can take a dip but do so at your own risk. If you’re not confident in the water, it’s best to admire the falls from a distance!
Alternatively, there are plenty of perfect spots for a family picnic either along the walk or near the waterfall. With that, you can still naturally soak in the surroundings.
Lucas Creek Waterfall
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Address: Albany Heights, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Though often considered a hidden gem, those who’ve visited Lucas Creek Waterfall know its secret won’t last forever.
Tucked away in the heart of Albany, this breathtaking waterfall is surprisingly easy to access. In fact, just a quick 10-minute hike off the Albany highway will lead you there.
Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a picturesque waterfall straight out of a fairy tale, complete with a swimming hole below. If you’re content to simply enjoy the view, you can walk to the lookout point and take in the scenery.
But if you fancy a swim, there’s a concrete path by the bridge over Lucas Creek that leads to the swimming hole.
The waterfall is especially stunning after rainfall, and a cloudy day adds to the atmosphere for capturing memorable photos. But of course, it’s important to avoid hiking to the waterfall if it’s raining, as the trails can become muddy and unsafe.
