About the path
Long Bay Regional Park is one of Auckland’s coastal gems with an array of walks, magnificent views, regenerating bush and excellent facilities.
Long Bay is a beautiful sandy beach renowned as a prime swimming spot and water sports playground, including surfing in the right conditions.
Situated about 30 minutes north of Auckland CBD, it is easily accessible both by car and bus services.
Long Bay Coastal Track commences at the northern end of the car park. Follow the road past the security chain and turn left on to a flat walkway through fields and wetlands. Be on the lookout for plenty of birdlife.
After approximately 300m on the flat, cross the stream using the bridge and start your assent to the top of the ridge. This pathway winds its way uphill with native bush on each side. On the right-hand side, halfway up the hill, there is the sign for a short nature trail (250m, 500m return).
The trail is through beautiful native bush and takes in views of the stream. Once back on the main track, continue up the hill until you emerge into open grassland and head towards the coastline. Stunning views of the coast and back towards Auckland city emerge.
Just as you begin your descent towards Granny’s Bay, there is the option to take the detour to the Pillbox (about 400m return), a relic from Auckland’s defence system. A few meters further on there is the option to continue directly down the hill towards Granny’s Bay or enjoy the track through the 100 acre native bush.
The 100 acre track will be muddy after a lot of rain and adds about 800m to your journey, but is a worthwhile addition if time permits.
At the base of the hill, make your way out on to the sand at Granny’s Bay. Have a swim if the weather is right or just relax on the sand.
If the tide is low, return to Long Bay around the beach and rocks. If the tide is high, return the same way you came back to the Long Bay car park, perhaps returning by the Nature Trail to complete your loop and see the historic Vaughan Homestead.
If you make your way around the rocks, you will pass the Vaughan Homestead and head back to the car park via the bridge and sealed roadway. You can also return via the Nature Trail and your original flat walking track.
Long Bay Coastal Track is suitable for off-road prams/buggies, although some areas are quite steep and require good levels of fitness. You will not be able to return via the beach/rocks with a buggie.
This walk can be completed by most people, although some general fitness would be an advantage given the up and down terrain. The tracks are in excellent condition.
Facilities at Long Bay include toilets, drinking fountains, BBQs, picnic tables, a playground, parking and bus stop. Please note that these facilities are not available on the walk, they are all located in parkland behind the beach.
