The 5 *BEST* Beaches for Outdoor Family Photos in Auckland
There’s something so beautiful about photographing a family by the beach. The open space, sound of the waves, salty air (I could go on and on!) and freedom for little ones to run, explore and play create the perfect setting for relaxed, natural family photographs.
As an Auckland family photographer, I’m lucky to have so many beautiful beaches on my doorstep. From wild west coast landscapes to calm, family-friendly eastern beaches, here are five of my favourite locations for an outdoor family photoshoot in Auckland.
1. Muriwai Beach
If you're looking for something dramatic and wild, Muriwai Beach is hard to beat. A great location choice for people who live in Kumeū, Huapai, The Waitakeres, OR people who just love the wild West Coast. At Muriwai you can find iconic black sand, windswept tussocks, rugged coastline and sweeping ocean views create a beautiful backdrop for family photography.
Muriwai is particularly gorgeous around golden hour, when the evening light softens the landscape and creates a warm, dreamy feel. There is plenty of space for children to run, making it a great choice for families who want their session to feel more like an adventure than a traditional photoshoot.
2. Karioitahi Beach
Another beautiful west coast location, Karioitahi Beach offers that quintessential rugged New Zealand coastline.
The expansive black sand, rolling waves and dramatic cliffs provide plenty of variety throughout a session. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, with the west-facing coastline offering gorgeous evening light.
For families wanting natural, emotive photographs with a little more drama and texture, Karioitahi is one of my favourite Auckland beach locations. It’s easy to access, with a short walk from the car park, and has the added bonus of being used for local horse treks - making for some beautiful backdrops!
3. Long Bay Beach
Located on Auckland’s North Shore, Long Bay Beach is a wonderful option for families based on the North Shore in suburbs such as Torbay, Browns Bay and Takapuna. Also great for people wanting a classic beach photoshoot without travelling too far from the city - roughly a 20 minute drive from the CBD.
The wide sandy beach, grassy areas and beautiful coastal views offer lots of opportunities for different photographs. It’s also a lovely location for younger children, with plenty of room to explore, collect shells, play and splash at the water’s edge. There is plenty of parking and easy access onto the beach, making it great for all ages and abilities.
4. Mellons Bay Beach
One of my favourite East Auckland family photography locations, Mellons Bay has a beautiful, relaxed coastal feel.
The small beach, surrounding greenery and views across the Hauraki Gulf create a more intimate setting than some of Auckland’s larger beaches. It works particularly well for families who love soft, natural photographs with plenty of connection and interaction.
Mellons Bay is also a beautiful choice for families based around Howick, Botany, Pakuranga and East Auckland.
5. Eastern Beach
Eastern Beach is a classic Auckland family photography location and one I always recommend to families looking for a beautiful, easy-going beach session.
With calm water, soft sand and plenty of space to walk, play and connect, it’s particularly suited to families with young children. The surrounding trees and coastal landscape also provide variety, allowing us to create a gallery of images that feels natural and relaxed rather than repetitive.
Choosing the Right Auckland Beach for Your Family
The best location really depends on the feeling you want from your photographs.
For dramatic, adventurous images, I love Muriwai and Karioitahi. For something calmer and more relaxed, Long Bay, Mellons Bay or Eastern Beach are beautiful choices.
Whichever location we choose, my approach to family photography is relaxed and natural. Rather than expecting everyone to stand still and look at the camera, I encourage families to play, cuddle, walk, laugh and simply enjoy being together. These genuine moments are often the photographs you'll treasure most.
If you're looking for a family photographer in Auckland for an outdoor beach photoshoot, I'd love to help you choose the perfect location for your family.