Pataua South is a hidden gem located just a short drive from Whangārei. This picturesque beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing and even a bit of diving.
This post may contain affiliate links. Your purchase through these links supports me with a commission, at no added expense to you.
If you’re seeking a quieter, less well-known spot not too far from Whangārei, this is a place is undeniably worth exploring.
PATAUA SOUTH LOCATION
Pataua South remains a hidden gem, untouched by mainstream tourism. It’s nestled along the East Coast of Northland, New Zealand and we were fortunate to spend a weekend here towards the end of summer.
In terms of its specific location, Pataua South you can find 40 minutes East of Whangārei (31km) between Whangārei Heads and Nugnguru. Although if coming from Auckland, it will take you roughly three hours (193km).
CAMPING AND ACCOMMODATION
We spent two nights camping at Treasure Island grounds and can highly recommend. The facilities are great and it’s only a short five minute walk to Frogtown Surf beach from the campsite. Summer truly brings out the best in this place. The store connected to the campground is particularly enticing during this season. It offers freshly cooked fish and chips alongside essential supplies–like ice-cream.
Also due to being out of the city and along the coast you can expect to camp under the stars. So if stargazing and pretty beaches are your thing, make sure to add this to your list of places to stay.
However, if you’re wanting something a bit more upmarket there are a small amount of options on AirBnB which also extend over to Pataua North.
PATAUA SOUTH FROGTOWN SURF BEACH
Frogtown surf beach which extends out to Nugnguru Bay and the vast Pacific, is a true gem. Accessible via Pataua Island Track, you’ll find that it’s a quick 10-minute walk from end to end. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
During our weekend stay, we mainly spent our time in the water, and sunbathing. There were others along the beach fishing, paddle boarding and diving. This remote beach offers a quiet retreat so even as summer winds down, its has a peaceful atmosphere.
PATAUA SOUTH WALKS
Several small walks in the area conveniently connect into one route.
For those keen on exploring all these walks in one outing, my suggestion would to begin at Frogtown surf beach. From there, follow the Pataua Island Track alongside the scenic Pataua River until you reach the pedestrian bridge. Crossing the bridge leads you to Aubrey Road in Pataua North, where you’ll discover Parauwanui Beach. If you would like to continue the walk, this beach is the perfect place.
NORTHLAND
Aside from Pataua South, Northland boasts some of my favourite places to see and experience in the North Island. It’s a place that is also full of rich New Zealand history.
If photography, walks or specifically hikes are a passion point of yours, and exploring Northland is on your bucket-list I have a few posts that you might find helpful. From another beautiful beach to the next, when in Northland you should visit Tauranga Bay. Or if you’re looking for something that is more active, hiking Cape Brett or alternatively Dukes Nose. Both of these deserve a mention, likewise with St Pauls Rock. All of which are fantastic spots for landscape photography.
Pataua South, nestled along Northland’s East Coast, offers an escape from mainstream tourism. From camping at Treasure Island to exploring Frogtown Surf Beach and the interconnected walking tracks, this untouched gem is an ideal destination to unwind and reset.