
Oakland/Herne Bay Beach Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Step onto Herne Bay Beach, where soft sand meets endless blue sky and sea breeze whispers away your stress. This isn’t just a sun-kissed escape—hidden along the shore are cozy cafés serving perfect coffee with ocean views, making it the ultimate urban retreat for slow living.

This luxury hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Auckland, just a 5-minute walk to Victoria Park and 8 minutes to Sky Tower. Enjoy 24-hour fitness center, free WiFi, and concierge services to make your stay effortless. Planning a wedding or event? They offer wedding services and banquet halls for all occasions. Dine at Esther Bar for delicious Mediterranean cuisine, unwind at the lounge, or grab a coffee at the café. The rooms are cozy with designer toiletries and minibars, ensuring a comfortable stay. Don’t miss their à la carte breakfast for a perfect start to your day!
















Everything you need to know about Herne Bay Beach
Stay at Herne Bay Beachside Apartments, just a 5-minute walk from the beach, offering private balconies and sea-view rooms with stunning sunrise and ocean views. The apartments feature fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and a relaxed, homey atmosphere—perfect for families or long-term visitors. Located steps away from Herne Bay Village, guests enjoy local cafés, boutique shops, and waterfront dining. Nearby attractions include Auckland Domain and the Auckland War Memorial Museum, all accessible by foot or short transit ride, making it an ideal base for exploring South Auckland’s charm.
It takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes by car from Herne Bay Beach to downtown Auckland, depending on traffic. The route follows Great North Road and State Highway 1, both well-marked and efficient. For public transport, take the One Service or Southern Cross Bus Route from Herne Bay Station, transfer to the Metro Rail at Britomart, and reach the city center in about 30 minutes. This corridor is a key commuter route with reliable service, offering a convenient and cost-effective alternative for travelers.
Herne Bay Beach offers peaceful sands and calm waters perfect for family picnics, sunbathing, and morning jogs along the scenic coastal path. The trail overlooks the Cook Strait, providing panoramic views and opportunities to spot native seabirds. During summer, the area hosts community music festivals and beach markets, adding vibrant local flavor. Nearby Herne Bay Park features playgrounds, basketball courts, and open green spaces ideal for kids and families. In the early mornings, locals gather for Tai Chi sessions, blending wellness with the serene seaside environment—truly capturing the spirit of South Auckland living.
Yes, Herne Bay Beach is well-served by public transit, including the One Service and Southern Cross Bus Route, connecting directly to downtown Auckland, Newmarket, and Ponsonby. The Herne Bay Station provides access to the Metropolitan Line rail network, enabling seamless transfers across the city. Bike-sharing stations are also available nearby, offering eco-friendly short-distance travel. With frequent services and integrated routes, the area is highly accessible for commuters and tourists alike—ideal for those preferring sustainable or car-free travel.
Stay at Herne Bay Beachfront Apartments, directly steps from the shoreline. These beachfront suites offer panoramic views of the Tasman Sea and private balconies perfect for sunrise watching. The area features scenic bike paths and walking trails ideal for morning exercise. Nearby, The Seagull Café serves fresh seafood and locally roasted coffee, offering a true taste of coastal living. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from downtown Auckland, bus route 370 connects directly to the beach.
Take Bus 370 from the city centre—approximately 15 minutes with frequent departures. The route passes through Māngere Bridge and Puketāpapa, offering scenic views of the urban-to-suburban transition. Alternatively, use an e-scooter (like Lyft Bike) or ride-share service along the Auckland Eastern Ring Route for a breezy, active journey. Upon arrival, clear signage leads directly to the beach entrance—just a 3-minute walk from the stop.
Herne Bay Beach is renowned for its shallow, safe swimming waters, making it perfect for families. Join a local guided intertidal zone tour to discover starfish, hermit crabs, and small fish. On weekends, the beach plaza hosts a vibrant farmer’s market selling handmade crafts and local produce. The eastern end features a birdwatching platform, ideal for spotting black shags and Australian wrens. At sunset, the sunset promenade offers stunning photo opportunities with golden skies reflecting off the water.
Yes, Herne Bay Beach features a playground, picnic lawns, and public showers, complete with shade structures and benches—ideal for family gatherings. The adjacent coastal walking trail spans 1.5 km, perfect for parent-child strolls. Nearby, the Herne Bay Community Centre offers free outdoor yoga classes and children’s art workshops every Saturday morning. There’s also a pet-friendly section of the beach where dogs are welcome in designated zones—great for dog lovers.
See what other travelers say about Herne Bay Beach

Auckland truly lives up to its nickname — half city, half ocean, a port full of sailing ships. Though I only stopped by as a layover, I still made time for the waterfront promenade near the viaduct, where I could gaze at the Sky Tower and soak in the coastal breeze. Afterward, a visit to The Occidental — a 130-year-old institution — was a must: cherry beer, mussels, and fried squid? Perfect way to end the day. QT Auckland is no surprise as one of the top Instagram-worthy stays. My corner room had an impressively spacious living area with a sofa, mini-bar setup, and seamless flow to the bathroom. The furniture and interior design stood out — sleek, modern, with a distinct personality. Best of all? The view from the window directly framed the top of the Sky Tower — just open the blinds and there it is. The lobby, restaurant, and rooftop bar are all stylish — edgy, almost nightclub-like with a touch of W Hotel flair. And stepping outside, I found that many restaurants and attractions were within walking distance, despite the city’s famously hilly streets. I opted for the free parking and valet service (a smart move — parking fees can add up fast). Overall, this hotel delivers on vibe, comfort, and convenience. A great stay, even if you’re just passing through.

I booked this hotel for a business trip and stayed for several nights—overall, it was an excellent experience. The location is fantastic: just a short 10-minute walk or ride to the city center, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and amenities nearby. The serviced apartment layout offers generous space, well-appointed furnishings, and spotless cleanliness—perfect for both work and relaxation. The staff were incredibly friendly and responsive, always ready to assist with any request. It’s not just convenient; it’s truly comfortable and well-managed. With great value for the price, I’d definitely stay here again on my next visit to Auckland.

Stayed at this hotel from September 11th for six nights, and I’ve returned after a gap—definitely glad I did. Last time I was on the ground floor; this time I stayed on the top floor, and the views were absolutely stunning with a wide-open outlook over the city. Being right in the heart of Auckland makes getting around incredibly convenient—everything is within walking distance or just a short ride away. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with any request. As a solo traveler, their support made a big difference and really eased my stay. The room was spotless, spacious, and had a comfortable queen-sized bed that allowed me to sleep soundly each night. One minor downside: the area in front of the hotel has a steep slope, and there’s ongoing construction nearby, which made hauling heavy luggage a bit of a challenge. But honestly, it’s such a small issue compared to the overall experience. Great location, excellent service, and fantastic value—highly recommend for anyone visiting Auckland.

My stay at The Surrey Hotel was absolutely fantastic! From the moment I arrived, everything felt seamless and luxurious. The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown Auckland, with great access to public transit and plenty of nearby restaurants and shops. My room was spacious, beautifully designed, and had stunning views of the harbor. The bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. Staff went above and beyond—friendly, professional, and always ready to help. They even assisted with luggage and offered local tips that made my trip more enjoyable. It’s rare to find such a high level of service combined with modern elegance. I’ll definitely be returning next time I visit Auckland. Highly recommended!

Staying at Quest on Eden in Auckland was an absolute highlight of my trip! The location is perfect—just a short walk to the city center and surrounded by great cafes, shops, and transport options. The room was spotless, stylishly designed, and incredibly comfortable, with a bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, professional, and always ready to help, even with small requests like luggage assistance. I was genuinely impressed by how thoughtful and attentive they were throughout my stay. What really stood out was the value for money—this place feels like a luxury hotel without the luxury price tag. If you're visiting Auckland, this is definitely my top recommendation. I’ll be coming back!

Staying at Off Broadway Motel in Auckland was a delightful surprise! The room was spacious and incredibly clean—every corner felt fresh and well-maintained. It came fully equipped with a microwave, mini-fridge, and kettle, which made my stay so convenient, especially for quick meals or drinks. The staff were warm and welcoming, always ready to help with any request. I appreciated the free parking on-site, which was a huge plus for travelers driving in. Plus, there are several Chinese restaurants nearby—perfect for dinner without having to go far. The location is also handy if you're exploring downtown Auckland via public transit. Overall, this place offers great value and comfort. I’d definitely book again!

Staying at Quest on Hobson was a fantastic experience. The one-bedroom apartment was spacious, spotlessly clean, and incredibly comfortable—everything you'd need for a home away from home. It's perfectly located just a short walk from Britomart and the Viaduct Harbour, making it easy to explore the city center, grab a bite, or do some shopping. Supermarkets are nearby, so stocking up on essentials is no hassle. The airport shuttle bus stop is literally a 2-minute walk away, which made my travel plans super smooth. One thing to note: there’s a local mission across the street, and you might see people around in the mornings and evenings. While it doesn’t affect the stay, it’s worth being aware of if you’re sensitive to outdoor activity near your accommodation. Overall, this place offers great value, excellent location, and a welcoming atmosphere—definitely recommend for travelers who want comfort and convenience in Auckland.

Staying at Quest on Queen was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—just steps away from shopping streets, cafes, and public transport, making it super easy to explore Auckland without needing a car. The apartment was spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed with everything you’d need for a comfortable long-term stay. I especially loved the powerful shower—it made morning routines feel like a spa experience. The small balcony was perfect for enjoying a quiet coffee in the sun or just taking in the city vibe. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place offers great value and a home-like comfort. I’d definitely come back and recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, well-located stay in Auckland.

Staying here for three nights was an absolute delight! The front desk staff, whether Chinese or international, were incredibly warm and courteous—every question I had was answered promptly, and any concerns were resolved with genuine care. As someone who travels frequently, the level of service here truly stood out and made my trip much more enjoyable. We stayed in a second-floor room with a stunning view outside the window. The room was spacious, impeccably clean, and daily housekeeping ensured everything was fresh and tidy. The surrounding area was quiet and peaceful, perfect for a good night’s sleep on the super-comfortable bed. Because I was so satisfied, I extended my stay by another three days. If I ever need accommodation in Auckland again, this will be my top choice—and I’ll definitely recommend it to friends visiting the city.

This place exceeded my expectations! The apartment was spotless, well-equipped, and incredibly comfortable—everything I needed for a stress-free stay. The location is unbeatable: right in the heart of downtown Auckland, just steps away from shops, restaurants, and attractions. Getting to the property was easy thanks to clear instructions for key pickup and parking. I loved having a kitchenette to prepare meals, which saved me money and added convenience. It’s rare to find such a great balance between comfort, cleanliness, and value. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Auckland.

We absolutely loved our stay at Royal Residency in Auckland. From the moment we arrived, everything felt seamless—easy contactless check-in through the platform made the process stress-free, and the rooms were spotlessly clean with a private ensuite in every bedroom. The location is fantastic: just a short walk from a small shopping complex and a Pak n Save, so all essentials were within reach. Despite being on a main road, the hotel was surprisingly quiet—no traffic noise at all, which was a pleasant surprise. We truly felt at home throughout our visit. The comfort, cleanliness, and convenience made it an ideal base for exploring the city. We’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Auckland.

One of my top hostel picks in Auckland! The staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming, making the stay feel more like home. Right outside the door is a bus stop—super convenient for getting around the city without needing to walk far. The dorm rooms are spacious, spotlessly clean, and each comes with a locker, fridge, air conditioning, and windows that open for fresh airflow. I also stayed in a private room, and it was just as impressive—clean, well-equipped with a fridge, AC, and a dedicated desk and chair, perfect for working or relaxing. Great value, great vibe, and an excellent choice for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and a friendly atmosphere.
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