The best beach camping in New Zealand

·

In New Zealand, beach camping means waking up to salt air and the sound of waves, with options that put you steps from the sand. You’ll find over 10 campsites right on the coast, from Northland’s quiet coves to stretches where surfers chase the next set. Most offer toilets, hot showers, and welcome your dog. Average price per night sits at $30, but you can snag a spot for as low as $20. Hike bush tracks in the morning, swim or surf in the afternoon—no two days look the same. Locals rave about Manaia Valley Farm (2 reviews), Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay (1 review), and Beach Front Paradise (1 review) for direct water access and uncrowded beaches. Book early if you want those prime beachfront spots—these fill up fast over summer.

100% (5) 40 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Zealand

Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park

1. Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park

100%
(8)
Kaikōura · 122 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled in one of New Zealand’s most dramatic coastal towns, Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park offers sheltered powered and non-powered sites for caravans, motorhomes and tents, along with a wide range of cabins for travellers wanting extra comfort. Set among landscaped grounds and framed by sweeping mountain vistas, it’s a peaceful, modern base for exploring this maritime wonderland. Choose from grass or gravel sites depending on your setup, each positioned close to clean, well-maintained communal facilities. Free Wi-Fi, spacious kitchens, modern amenities and newly added hot tubs make it easy to relax at the end of the day — whether you’ve been out on the water or wandering the peninsula. Kaikōura is famous for its wildlife encounters, from whale watching and dolphin tours to seals lounging along the coastline. Add in coastal walks, local seafood, and sunrise over the mountains, and you’ve got a spectacular setting for your stay. Kaikōura TOP 10 puts all of it within easy reach while offering comfort and calm when you return.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
NZ$63
 / night
Manaia Valley Farm

2. Manaia Valley Farm

100%
(3)
Whangarei · 1 site · Tent, RV
Hi Hipcampers! Manaia Valley Farm is nestled below the stunning Mt Manaia, Whangarei Heads. Our 20 acres is just 600m from Ocean Beach, perfect for surfing and swimming. If you prefer a gentle float in calm waters, Taurikura beach is just a 5 min drive away. There are heaps of fantastic hikes in the vicinity if that's your thing. We have space for campervans/caravans/tenters. And we have a flush toilet, and hot outdoor shower available. Come enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets Northland has to offer!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
NZ$30
 / night
Carters Beach Top 10 Holiday Park

3. Carters Beach Top 10 Holiday Park

100%
(10)
Westport · 111 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to the West Coast’s dramatic coastline, where sandy beaches meet lush rainforest and mountain backdrops. Carter's Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park offers a relaxed, seaside setting with powered and non-powered sites interspersed with cabin accommodation in spacious, park-like surrounds. Just steps from a gentle swimming beach, the park also offers hot tubs for hire, modern communal bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and all the conveniences you need to unwind comfortably. Free unlimited Wi-Fi across the site means you can stay connected even while enjoying the slow pace of the coastline. Whether you’re exploring the wild beauty of Cape Foulwind, visiting the nearby seal colony, cycling the Kawatiri Coastal Trail, or discovering the charm of nearby Westport, Carters Beach TOP 10 is a welcoming spot to relax at the end of each day— a classic West Coast stay with both comfort and character.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$86
 / night
Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

4. Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

South Head · 1 site
Dune Lakes Retreat & Horse Inspired Learning Centre is nestled on the wild South Kaipara Head Peninsula, just 60 minutes from Auckland CBD, yet it feels far removed from everyday life. Set among ancient sand hills, pristine wetlands, native bush, and the calm waters of Lake Kereta — a rare freshwater dune lake — this is a landscape shaped by deep time, quiet balance and wonderful for safe swimming. The South Kaipara Head is an ancient sand barrier separating the vast Kaipara Harbour from the Tasman Sea. Between the dunes, groundwater has gathered over thousands of years to form freshwater lakes and wetlands that filter water, support rich biodiversity, and create a profound sense of calm. Guests may choose from a range of camping sites — some nestled near the wetlands, others more open with wide skies and lake views. Facilities include excellent water quality, toilets, and showers. Accommodation includes the Flying Horse Barn with three studio rooms at $150 per night per room, and a cabin available for $100 per night (bring your own linen/towels etc or $25 extra per stay for supplied linen for all accommodation) To the west lies the dramatic Muriwai / Rangatira coastline with sweeping Tasman Sea sunsets. To the east is the sheltered Kaipara Harbour, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and a vital feeding ground for marine life and migratory birds such as godwits, knots, plovers, and terns. A quiet lagoon to the north shelters swans, ducks, pūkeko, paradise shelduck, kingfisher, fantail, warbler, and silvereye. At dawn, birdsong fills the air. At dusk, frogs rise in chorus, and from deep within the reedbeds the rare Australasian bittern calls — a nationally threatened bird whose presence signals an intact wetland. The retreat is also home to a free-roaming herd of horses at the Horse Inspired Learning Centre. The horses are free-roaming, barefoot, unridden, and without covers. Mindful, non-riding interactions grounded in Natural Horse Friendship and Equine-Assisted Learning sessions are available by arrangement at $250 per morning session) A place to rest, reflect, and reconnect — where land, water, wildlife, horses, and quiet beauty meet.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$84
 / night
Thornton Beach Holiday Park

5. Thornton Beach Holiday Park

100%
(10)
Whakatāne · 62 sites · RVs, Lodging
Wake up to sweeping ocean views with Whale Island right offshore and White Island in the distance. Set directly on the sand, Thornton Beach Holiday Park offers powered and unpowered sites just metres from both the beach and the Rangitaiki River. Sites are spacious and easy to access, supported by clean kitchen and bathroom facilities, free Wi-Fi, a dump station, and plenty of room to relax. You’ll have calm river water for swimming, kayaking and fishing on one side, and a long stretch of surf beach on the other for walks, beachcombing or throwing in a line. A small range of cosy cabins is also available for those wanting simple, comfortable accommodation. Whakatāne township is only a short drive away for supplies, cafés and local culture, yet the park itself feels peaceful and laid-back — a classic coastal base where you can slow down, explore, and enjoy the best of the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$71
 / night
Beach Front Paradise

6. Beach Front Paradise

100%
(1)
Waiotahe, BOP · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful beach front, with lots to do or a great spot to relax in nature. White Island and Whale island located off shore is definitely a site to sea on the golden hour sunset. Motu trail bike track directly infront of property so if you love to bike this is perfect for you. Surfing and swimming is very popular, or long walks along the beach! Fishing is a must! So bring your gear along. An untouched slice of paradise that you can’t bet, fresh sea breeze and fresh air! Please message before booking and if you have any questions just txt or email. Thanks 0277220509 Price -$25 for two people (1 vehicle) per night -Extra people $10per person, $5 per child
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$30
 / night
Slobadogavich Acres

7. Slobadogavich Acres

Raglan, NZ · 1 site
Situated only 15 minutes from Raglan and about the same to the blissful and barely known about Aotea Harbour, keep going and in only 35 minutes you find yourself in Kawhia, another gorgeous harbour and also boasts it's own hot water beach, where at low tide you can just dig a hole and create your own spa pool - choose the right day and enjoy a spectacular and unforgettable sunset. Not forgetting of course the renowned Bridal Veil Falls, only 2km further up the road from this property. With the local social club directly across the road, you have the choice of peace and tranquility or a little socialising and getting to know the locals - with the possibility of being let in on further (lesser known and undiscovered) attractions which, believe me exist - but are accessable by permission only. With it's close proximity to Raglan and all that it beholds, it's a great place to park up away from the hustle and bustle (and the free camping Nazis, lol) take a breath and plan your next move. Stay a night or a week, I promise you that the longer you stay the more welcome you will feel - and be...
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
NZ$49
 / night
Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay

8. Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay

100%
(2)
Kaeo · 1 site
Available is a sheltered flat grass section near a stunning beach. It is sheltered from the wind yet only a 60m stroll to the beach. Take your morning coffee or evening wine to the beach (like I do). Lot's of fun nature hikes in the area, eg Mahineapua Track, Whangaroa Harbour. Nearby is Matauri Bay reknowned for it's great surf, or Kauri Cliffs Golf Resort.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$73
 / night
Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

9. Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

Karikari Peninsula, NZ · 1 site
The Pohutukawa Cabin is part of our Guest House space. The Cabin is private and self contained there are no shared facilities. The Pohutukawa Cabin is to the rear of Karikari Lodge and overlooks the beautiful and treasured Karikari Bay. You have free use of the SUP (Stand up paddle boards) and Bodyboards.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
NZ$161
 / night

In New Zealand, beach camping means waking up to salt air and the sound of waves, with options that put you steps from the sand. You’ll find over 10 campsites right on the coast, from Northland’s quiet coves to stretches where surfers chase the next set. Most offer toilets, hot showers, and welcome your dog. Average price per night sits at $30, but you can snag a spot for as low as $20. Hike bush tracks in the morning, swim or surf in the afternoon—no two days look the same. Locals rave about Manaia Valley Farm (2 reviews), Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay (1 review), and Beach Front Paradise (1 review) for direct water access and uncrowded beaches. Book early if you want those prime beachfront spots—these fill up fast over summer.

100% (5) 40 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Zealand

Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park

1. Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park

100%
(8)
Kaikōura · 122 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled in one of New Zealand’s most dramatic coastal towns, Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park offers sheltered powered and non-powered sites for caravans, motorhomes and tents, along with a wide range of cabins for travellers wanting extra comfort. Set among landscaped grounds and framed by sweeping mountain vistas, it’s a peaceful, modern base for exploring this maritime wonderland. Choose from grass or gravel sites depending on your setup, each positioned close to clean, well-maintained communal facilities. Free Wi-Fi, spacious kitchens, modern amenities and newly added hot tubs make it easy to relax at the end of the day — whether you’ve been out on the water or wandering the peninsula. Kaikōura is famous for its wildlife encounters, from whale watching and dolphin tours to seals lounging along the coastline. Add in coastal walks, local seafood, and sunrise over the mountains, and you’ve got a spectacular setting for your stay. Kaikōura TOP 10 puts all of it within easy reach while offering comfort and calm when you return.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
NZ$63
 / night
Manaia Valley Farm

2. Manaia Valley Farm

100%
(3)
Whangarei · 1 site · Tent, RV
Hi Hipcampers! Manaia Valley Farm is nestled below the stunning Mt Manaia, Whangarei Heads. Our 20 acres is just 600m from Ocean Beach, perfect for surfing and swimming. If you prefer a gentle float in calm waters, Taurikura beach is just a 5 min drive away. There are heaps of fantastic hikes in the vicinity if that's your thing. We have space for campervans/caravans/tenters. And we have a flush toilet, and hot outdoor shower available. Come enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets Northland has to offer!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from 
NZ$30
 / night
Carters Beach Top 10 Holiday Park

3. Carters Beach Top 10 Holiday Park

100%
(10)
Westport · 111 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to the West Coast’s dramatic coastline, where sandy beaches meet lush rainforest and mountain backdrops. Carter's Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park offers a relaxed, seaside setting with powered and non-powered sites interspersed with cabin accommodation in spacious, park-like surrounds. Just steps from a gentle swimming beach, the park also offers hot tubs for hire, modern communal bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and all the conveniences you need to unwind comfortably. Free unlimited Wi-Fi across the site means you can stay connected even while enjoying the slow pace of the coastline. Whether you’re exploring the wild beauty of Cape Foulwind, visiting the nearby seal colony, cycling the Kawatiri Coastal Trail, or discovering the charm of nearby Westport, Carters Beach TOP 10 is a welcoming spot to relax at the end of each day— a classic West Coast stay with both comfort and character.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$86
 / night
Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

4. Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

South Head · 1 site
Dune Lakes Retreat & Horse Inspired Learning Centre is nestled on the wild South Kaipara Head Peninsula, just 60 minutes from Auckland CBD, yet it feels far removed from everyday life. Set among ancient sand hills, pristine wetlands, native bush, and the calm waters of Lake Kereta — a rare freshwater dune lake — this is a landscape shaped by deep time, quiet balance and wonderful for safe swimming. The South Kaipara Head is an ancient sand barrier separating the vast Kaipara Harbour from the Tasman Sea. Between the dunes, groundwater has gathered over thousands of years to form freshwater lakes and wetlands that filter water, support rich biodiversity, and create a profound sense of calm. Guests may choose from a range of camping sites — some nestled near the wetlands, others more open with wide skies and lake views. Facilities include excellent water quality, toilets, and showers. Accommodation includes the Flying Horse Barn with three studio rooms at $150 per night per room, and a cabin available for $100 per night (bring your own linen/towels etc or $25 extra per stay for supplied linen for all accommodation) To the west lies the dramatic Muriwai / Rangatira coastline with sweeping Tasman Sea sunsets. To the east is the sheltered Kaipara Harbour, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and a vital feeding ground for marine life and migratory birds such as godwits, knots, plovers, and terns. A quiet lagoon to the north shelters swans, ducks, pūkeko, paradise shelduck, kingfisher, fantail, warbler, and silvereye. At dawn, birdsong fills the air. At dusk, frogs rise in chorus, and from deep within the reedbeds the rare Australasian bittern calls — a nationally threatened bird whose presence signals an intact wetland. The retreat is also home to a free-roaming herd of horses at the Horse Inspired Learning Centre. The horses are free-roaming, barefoot, unridden, and without covers. Mindful, non-riding interactions grounded in Natural Horse Friendship and Equine-Assisted Learning sessions are available by arrangement at $250 per morning session) A place to rest, reflect, and reconnect — where land, water, wildlife, horses, and quiet beauty meet.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$84
 / night
Thornton Beach Holiday Park

5. Thornton Beach Holiday Park

100%
(10)
Whakatāne · 62 sites · RVs, Lodging
Wake up to sweeping ocean views with Whale Island right offshore and White Island in the distance. Set directly on the sand, Thornton Beach Holiday Park offers powered and unpowered sites just metres from both the beach and the Rangitaiki River. Sites are spacious and easy to access, supported by clean kitchen and bathroom facilities, free Wi-Fi, a dump station, and plenty of room to relax. You’ll have calm river water for swimming, kayaking and fishing on one side, and a long stretch of surf beach on the other for walks, beachcombing or throwing in a line. A small range of cosy cabins is also available for those wanting simple, comfortable accommodation. Whakatāne township is only a short drive away for supplies, cafés and local culture, yet the park itself feels peaceful and laid-back — a classic coastal base where you can slow down, explore, and enjoy the best of the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$71
 / night
Beach Front Paradise

6. Beach Front Paradise

100%
(1)
Waiotahe, BOP · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful beach front, with lots to do or a great spot to relax in nature. White Island and Whale island located off shore is definitely a site to sea on the golden hour sunset. Motu trail bike track directly infront of property so if you love to bike this is perfect for you. Surfing and swimming is very popular, or long walks along the beach! Fishing is a must! So bring your gear along. An untouched slice of paradise that you can’t bet, fresh sea breeze and fresh air! Please message before booking and if you have any questions just txt or email. Thanks 0277220509 Price -$25 for two people (1 vehicle) per night -Extra people $10per person, $5 per child
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$30
 / night
Slobadogavich Acres

7. Slobadogavich Acres

Raglan, NZ · 1 site
Situated only 15 minutes from Raglan and about the same to the blissful and barely known about Aotea Harbour, keep going and in only 35 minutes you find yourself in Kawhia, another gorgeous harbour and also boasts it's own hot water beach, where at low tide you can just dig a hole and create your own spa pool - choose the right day and enjoy a spectacular and unforgettable sunset. Not forgetting of course the renowned Bridal Veil Falls, only 2km further up the road from this property. With the local social club directly across the road, you have the choice of peace and tranquility or a little socialising and getting to know the locals - with the possibility of being let in on further (lesser known and undiscovered) attractions which, believe me exist - but are accessable by permission only. With it's close proximity to Raglan and all that it beholds, it's a great place to park up away from the hustle and bustle (and the free camping Nazis, lol) take a breath and plan your next move. Stay a night or a week, I promise you that the longer you stay the more welcome you will feel - and be...
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
NZ$49
 / night
Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay

8. Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay

100%
(2)
Kaeo · 1 site
Available is a sheltered flat grass section near a stunning beach. It is sheltered from the wind yet only a 60m stroll to the beach. Take your morning coffee or evening wine to the beach (like I do). Lot's of fun nature hikes in the area, eg Mahineapua Track, Whangaroa Harbour. Nearby is Matauri Bay reknowned for it's great surf, or Kauri Cliffs Golf Resort.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$73
 / night
Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

9. Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

Karikari Peninsula, NZ · 1 site
The Pohutukawa Cabin is part of our Guest House space. The Cabin is private and self contained there are no shared facilities. The Pohutukawa Cabin is to the rear of Karikari Lodge and overlooks the beautiful and treasured Karikari Bay. You have free use of the SUP (Stand up paddle boards) and Bodyboards.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
NZ$161
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field