Fun Family Day Out in Bucklands Beach, East Auckland
- By: Auckland for Kids
- Last Updated:
- Topics: Family Day Out
- Bucklands Beach Places, East Auckland
Explore Bucklands Beach in East Auckland for a relaxed and fun-filled family day. With beautiful beaches, playgrounds, bush walks, local parks, kid-friendly cafés, and stunning coastal views, Bucklands Beach has plenty to offer tamariki of all ages. Whether you want to get active, enjoy a picnic, or learn some local history, it’s an easy family day out in Auckland.
Things to do and see with the kids in Bucklands Beach
Discover Te Naupata | Musick Point
Walk with the kids past the Howick Golf Club through the coastal reserve to reach Musick Point Memorial Radio Station at the tip of the peninsula. The panoramic views out to the Hauraki Gulf, Browns Island and the Coromandel Peninsula make it worth the effort.
Children can learn about the art deco radio station building, originally constructed during World War II, and now used by amateur radio enthusiasts. Te Naupata is a significant historical site for Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki, with visible remnants of the original pā terraces still present. The land was returned to iwi as part of the 2015 treaty settlement.
There are quite a few stairs, so if you’re visiting with little ones, leave the buggy at home and use a front pack. Take care near the steep pōhutukawa-lined cliffs and pack sturdy shoes, especially after wet weather when the path can get muddy. The gates are locked at night so check opening times before you go.
Walk, Bike or Scooter the Bucklands Beach Path
Take in the harbour views as you follow the flat path from Little Bucklands Beach to Big Bucklands Beach. The route follows The Parade and is perfect for kids to ride bikes or scooters. There are plenty of spots to stop for a paddle or play in the sand, and public toilets are available along the way.
Walk among the trees at Murvale Reserve
Enjoy a peaceful bush walk under the tall oak and native trees in Murvale Reserve, tucked away in the Bucklands Beach neighbourhood. There’s a grassy area that’s perfect for a picnic or games with the kids. The gravel paths and steps are not all buggy-friendly, so bring a front pack for babies or toddlers. You’ll find Murvale Reserve on Murvale Drive.
Family friendly beaches to visit in Bucklands Beach
Big Bucklands Beach
Located north of Grangers Point, Big Bucklands Beach is great for sand play and beach games. However, the beach slopes away steeply and there can be strong currents at high tide, so supervise children closely if swimming.
Little Bucklands Beach
Little Bucklands Beach offers a safe spot for paddling at low tide, though the steep drop-off and currents at high tide mean children should always be watched. At the southern end, a 230-metre boardwalk connects to Half Moon Bay Marina, making it a lovely walk.
The Back Beach
At low tide, explore the hidden coves beneath the pōhutukawa-lined cliffs. The best access is from the track at Clovelly Road. Always check the tide times so you don’t get caught out by the rising sea.
Places to play in Bucklands Beach
Te Naupata Reserve
Small grass reserve overlooking the estuary with trees for the kids climb on and is a great spot for a swim. Keep a look out for ” Eye Rock” which is a rock with an eye cut out. The Reserve can be accessed from Musick Point Road.
Rogers Park
Rogers Park is a good sized sportsfield for the kids to play at and there is a small playground. There is a public toilet at Rogers Park. Bucklands Beach Tennis Clu bis located on the edge of Rogers Park and there is a walkway down to The Esplanade and Eastern Beach.
Bucklands Beach Domain and Playground
Bucklands Beach Domain is a hidden away neighbourhood park with a playground which can be accessed from Morrow Avenue or Clovelly Road.
Kid-friendly Cafe's and Food in Bucklands Beach
Bucks Bistro
Located at 23A The Parade, Bucks Bistro offers stunning beach views and seasonal bistro-style meals with seafood at the heart of the menu. They have a dedicated kids’ menu that doubles as a colouring-in sheet to keep tamariki entertained.
Zabr'one
A welcoming family restaurant serving Mediterranean and Italian dishes at 47 The Parade. Zabr’one is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and also offers takeaway.
Bucklands Espresso Lounge
Sit under the outdoor umbrellas and enjoy a relaxed bite at this local favourite. Serving breakfast and brunch all day with a kids’ menu available.
My Little Bakehouse Cafe
Pick up a classic kiwi pie or something sweet from this local bakery My Little Bakehouse & Cafe to enjoy at the beach or reserve.
Picnic at Music Point Esplande Reserve
Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the tables at Musick Point Esplanade Reserve, located at 38R Clovelly Road. The views over the beach make it a perfect lunch spot.
Where is Bucklands Beach?
Bucklands Beach is located 13 kilometres east of Auckland’s city centre and is easily accessible by car or public transport. You can also catch a ferry from downtown Auckland to Half Moon Bay Marina, with a journey time of around 40 minutes. From there, it’s a short walk to Bucklands Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bucklands Beach
Is Bucklands Beach good for kids?
Yes, Bucklands Beach is great for families. There are multiple playgrounds, safe walking and bike paths, and beaches to paddle at. It’s a relaxed East Auckland destination for a day out with tamariki.
Can you swim at Bucklands Beach?
Swimming is best at low to mid-tide. At high tide, both Big and Little Bucklands Beach slope away steeply and can have strong currents. Always supervise children closely while they are swimming.
Is Musick Point suitable for prams or buggies?
Not fully. There are many stairs and uneven paths, so it’s better to use a front pack if visiting with babies or toddlers.
Are there cafés nearby?
Yes, Bucklands Beach has several family-friendly cafés including Bucks Bistro, Zabr’one, Bucklands Espresso Lounge and My Little Bakehouse. Many offer kids’ menus and takeaway options for beach picnics.
Are there public toilets along Bucklands Beach?
Yes, there are public toilets located along The Parade between Little and Big Bucklands Beach and also near Rogers Park.
How do I get to Bucklands Beach from Auckland City?
ou can drive (about 25 minutes off-peak), take a bus, or catch the ferry from downtown Auckland to Half Moon Bay Marina, then walk or bike to Bucklands Beach.
