Come up to magical mangawhai

36°4'52.744''S 174°35'56.036''E

Mangawhai Heads Beach

surf town heaven

Mangawhai is a stunning coastal town offering the perfect blend of beaches, nature, and friendly coastal culture. Relax on the golden sands of Mangawhai Heads Beach, hike the breathtaking Mangawhai Cliff Walk, explore the beautiful estuary, or visit the Mangawhai Museum to explore the area’s storied history. Enjoy fresh local produce at the Mangawhai Tavern Market, refuel at one of the many welcoming cafes, or indulge in boutique wines at local vineyards like Millars or Brooke Lane. If you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Mangawhai is one of the coolest towns in Northland.

Aerial view of a coastal town at sunset with winding rivers, green fields, and scattered houses along the shoreline, overlooking the ocean.

The Estuary

The Mangawhai estuary wraps around this beautiful town making it the perfect spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, waterskiing and fishing. The Mangawhai boat ramp provides easy access to explore its scenic waterways with clear waters, stunning dunes, and abundant sea and birdlife.

Aerial view of a coastal area with lush green hills, residential houses, a sandy beach, and clear blue waters with small rocks and islands in the background.

Mangawhai Bar

The Mangawhai Bar is a dynamic and often challenging surf break where the estuary meets the ocean. Known for its powerful waves, it attracts experienced surfers, but shifting sands and strong currents can make navigation tricky, requiring caution when crossing by boat.

A view of a rocky coastline with a sandy beach, surrounded by green trees and a steep hillside along the ocean with clear blue water and distant horizon.

Bream Bay

Navigate your way across the Mangawhai Bar and cruise out into Bream Bay - a stunning stretch of crystal clear water that arcs all the way up to Whangārei Heads. Offshore, the Hen and Chickens Islands offer a marine sanctuary, perfect for diving, snorkelling, and fishing adventures.

Two women walk on a sandy beach with hills and ocean waves in the background under a clear blue sky.

Mangawhai Surf Beach

Mangawhai Surf Beach is known for its consistent surf breaks, golden sands, and rugged volcanic rock formations. The patrolled swimming area makes it family-friendly in summer, while powerful waves attract surfers year-round. Grab a boogie board and slide down the dunes or head up the hill to the Mangawhai Cliff Walk for stunning coastal views.

Indoor patio with a large tree in center, surrounded by brick flooring, chairs, potted plants, and a brick fireplace. There are large glass windows and a glass ceiling allowing natural light inside.

HIGHLIGHTS

Bennetts chocolate shop and cafe

Bennetts offers a Mediterranean-inspired escape, with its sunlit courtyard, whitewashed walls, and lush greenery creating a rich, cosy vibe. Inside, handcrafted chocolates are displayed like edible art, while the café offers gourmet treats, great coffee, and a relaxing courtyard, perfect for a slow indulgent brunch.

People dining outdoors at a restaurant patio on a sunny day, with some seated at wooden tables and others standing near the bar area.

Mangawhai Heads Shops & Eateries

Mangawhai Heads is a gourmet hub. Enjoy a fabulous pizza at Wood St, savour the wonderful treats at Brewed As, or grab a freshly made taco at Gringas. The Heads has every craving covered with Sushi, Indian, Kebabs, toasties, roast dinners, burgers, bakery and traditional fish and chips all waiting to tempt your tastebuds!

An outdoor market scene with stalls and tents, colorful umbrellas, and people enjoying food and browsing. There are trees and residential houses in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Mangawhai Village

Mangawhai Village is the gateway to the town. Stop and savour the indulgent treats at Bennetts café, stock up on surfwear at Bammas and Threadbox, grab a craft beer in the Pacific Coast Tap Rooms, or visit the historic Mangawhai Tavern for fabulous food and a great view of the estuary. And don’t miss the Saturday morning markets for local produce, arts and crafts.

Parking lot in front of a modern commercial building with a sushi restaurant, surrounded by landscaped greenery.

Mangawhai Central

In between Mangawhai Heads and the village lies Central, a new shopping hub with a stunning New World supermarket and Bunnings for all your essentials. Look closer though and you’ll find hidden gems like Four Little Birds cafe, BK Sushi and the fabulous Bunker Sports Bar with indoor golf sims that are perfect for keeping the family entertained on rainy days.