Hawke's Bay has some of the sunniest weather in New Zealand, so knowing where to cool off is essential. From calm ocean beaches and shaded river pools to hidden waterfalls, here are our favourite places to swim in the region.
Tip: The Hawke's Bay Regional Council monitors water quality at popular swimming spots over summer. Check their "Can I Swim Here?" page before heading out — and avoid swimming for 2–3 days after heavy rain.
Just five minutes from central Napier, Westshore is a reliable go-to on a hot day. The beach is wide and sandy, the water is usually calm, and there's a grassy reserve behind for post-swim picnics. Sunsets here are some of the best in town. Easy parking along the esplanade.
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About 45 minutes south of Napier, Waimārama is a long sandy beach with clear water and a relaxed vibe. It's a proper summer destination — great for swimming, bodyboarding, and lazing around all day. There's a small shop for ice creams and supplies. The drive out is scenic too, winding through farmland.
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A beautiful waterfall and swimming hole about 30 minutes south of Hastings, tucked away down a gravel road. The falls drop into a deep, clear pool that's perfect for a dip on a hot day. It's a popular spot with families and locals in summer, so arrive early on weekends. Short walk from the car park. Free to visit.
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The Tutaekurī runs right through the outskirts of Napier and there are several good swimming spots along it — particularly upstream near Puketapu and Dartmoor. The water can be refreshingly cool, and some sections have deep pools and shingle beaches. A popular local spot for a quick cool-down without driving far. Check water quality before swimming.
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A dramatic, wild beach south of Hastings with dark sand and big surf. Ocean Beach is stunning but not for the faint-hearted — it's an unpatrolled beach with strong currents, so it's best for confident swimmers and experienced surfers. The scenery alone is worth the trip though. The access road is steep and winding.
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Right in front of Napier city, the Marine Parade beach stretches for kilometres. The water is generally calm and it's easy to pop down between exploring the Art Deco quarter. Not the prettiest beach in the region, but convenient, and the pebbled shore gives way to sandy shallows in the water. Close to cafes, playgrounds and the National Aquarium.
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A quiet coastal settlement about 20 minutes south of Napier. Te Awanga has a sheltered beach that's good for families and a more relaxed swim. There are a couple of wineries nearby too, making it easy to combine a morning swim with an afternoon tasting. The Cape Kidnappers gannet colony is just down the coast.
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For something completely different — natural hot springs hidden in the Kaweka Range, about 90 minutes inland from Napier. It's a proper backcountry experience: a multi-hour tramp through native bush to reach thermal pools in the river. Not a quick trip, but unforgettable. Bring supplies and check DOC conditions before you go.
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