Top Surf Beaches in Gisborne Where Families Can Play, Picnic, and Swim Safely

From the gentle breaks of Wainui Beach to the rock pools of Makorori Beach, Gisborne is your one-stop seaside shop for all things family-friendly beaches. Jump into your Thrifty rental car and hit the road—the waves don’t wait for anyone!

Ride the Waves at Wainui Beach

Get a load of Wainui Beach’s world famous surf at this coastal paradise, less than a ten minute drive from the centre of Gisborne. The beach’s access points are just at the end of its parking bays, and from there it’s only a short stroll to this pocket of seaside beauty. While Wainui Beach is known for its surf breaks, there are also gentler surf breaks that young surfers or paddling kids can enjoy. There are even plenty of safe areas for swimming, so you can enjoy splashing around in the refreshing waves with the family without the stress. For when you’re wanting to mix up the golden yellow sand for something more shaded, the grassy picnic areas toward the back of the shoreline make for a great spot to tuck into some snacks or just watch the turquoise tide roll in. If you and the little ones are game enough, Wainui Beach also makes for a great spot to watch the sunrise from, delivering a view of the lifting sun out over the South Pacific Ocean before almost anyone else in the world.

Splash Around the Shore at Midway Beach

If you’re after a beach that is both beautiful and convenient, we’ve got just the spot for you! Midway Beach is super close to the heart of Gisborne’s town, being less than a five minute drive away. With lifeguards often patrolling this beach, you can rest knowing there’s an extra level of safety while you and fam jump into the waves. The calm wave section is an ideal spot for younger swimmers, or for anyone wanting to relax in the water. The nearby cafes and playground mean that you can spend a bucket load of time at Midway Beach, frolicking between the stretches of pristine ocean and sand. If you’re looking around for the perfect picnic spot at Midway, all you need to do is look down! The soft sand makes for a perfect picnic place to stretch out as you soak up that gorgeous sun.

Paddle in the Shallows at Waikanae Beach

Just down the shoreline from Midway Beach is another of Gisborne’s beloved beach gems. Waikanae Beach is considered one of the best beaches in town, as well as a great beach for surfing beginners. If paddling about in the waves is more your kind of stroke, this is a slice of ocean that feels like a natural swimming pool. The shallow waters suit children of all ages, as well as the adults wanting to float easily in the gentle waves. Being walking distance from the heart of Gisborne, shops and cafes are never too far away. Better yet, the picnic tables and grassy spots make for the perfect dining experience, all with a view of the sparkling, endless ocean stretching out before you.

Explore the Rock Pools at Makorori Beach

To top off this list of epic surf beaches around Gisborne, Makorori Beach is an absolute must-visit if you’re on the hunt for a seaside adventure. This secluded beach is only an easy fifteen minute drive from Gisborne’s town and remains one of the region’s best kept secret paradises. Not only is it a great spot for families to explore the gentle waves and the soft sand of the beach, but there’s also plenty more opportunities for adventure all around the beach’s edges. The rock pools at the end of the beach make for a perfect place to spend some time observing the shimmering turquoise water as it dips into the earth, and the headland at the back of Makorori Beach is filled with a bunch of incredible walking tracks and stunning lookouts to discover. Make the most of this beautiful beach by seeing it from above. While you’re at it, make sure to take a family selfie at the top. It’ll be sure to be a picture worth infinite word!

Whether it’s exploring rock pools, laying back on golden sands or diving head-first into the surf, Gisborne is home to a crown of jewels of surf beaches. In your Thrifty rental car, you can discover even the most hidden of these paradisal gems.