Auckland has never been confused for a “beach town,” but one of the most enduring images of the place comes from this beach about 25 miles north of the city. It’s home to Lion Rock, a massive 16-million-year-old stone that’s made appearances on both the Auckland phone book and postage stamps. Green hills line the shore, with streams and tributaries running out into the Tasman Sea.
Bonus: Piha is a black sand beach, formed by volcanic minerals, and the harsh breaks make it one of the top surfing spots in the Pacific.
