Last updated July 2026
Urquharts Bay is a sheltered beach on the western side of the Whangārei Heads peninsula, facing into Whangārei Harbour. The calm, clear waters make it suitable for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding. It serves as the main access point for the Smugglers Bay Loop Track in the Bream Head Scenic Reserve. The bay lies approximately 35–38 km from Whangārei city centre.
Practical Information
| Location | Urquharts Bay Road, Whangārei Heads |
| Distance from city | Approx. 35–38 km / 40 minutes from Whangārei city centre |
| Parking | Free car park at the end of Urquharts Bay Road with toilets |
| Activities | Swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, walking |
| Lifeguard | Not patrolled |
| Cost | Free |
| Status | Open year-round; avoid swimming 2–3 days after heavy rain |
About Urquharts Bay
Urquharts Bay sits at the base of the Whangārei Heads volcanic peninsula within the Bream Head Scenic Reserve. The sheltered inlet provides typically calm harbour waters with good visibility for snorkelling, where reef fish, rock lobster and scallops can be seen near the rocks. Dolphins and seals are occasionally spotted in the bay, and the Hen and Chicken Islands are visible on the horizon.
The bay forms part of the Whangārei Harbour Marine Reserve area, with a boat launching ramp available. It offers a peaceful setting for water-based activities and serves as a gateway to coastal walks. The car park includes public toilets, and the site is managed for recreational use by the Department of Conservation and local authorities.
LAWA lists Urquharts Bay as a popular swimming spot in Whangārei Harbour, with guidance to avoid swimming for 2–3 days after heavy rainfall due to potential water quality changes.
Smugglers Bay Loop Track
The Smugglers Bay Loop Track starts from the Urquharts Bay car park and forms a loop through the Bream Head Scenic Reserve. The track is approximately 4.5–5 km long and takes 1–1.5 hours to complete at an easy grade. It passes through coastal forest, crosses the headland at Busby Head, and reaches the secluded Smugglers Bay beach before returning.
Features along the way include a WWII-era gun emplacement and panoramic coastal views. A short one-way detour to the tip of Busby Head is recommended for additional scenery. The track is managed by the Department of Conservation.
Swimming and Snorkelling
The sheltered waters of Urquharts Bay support swimming and snorkelling in calm conditions. Visibility is often good enough to observe marine life around the rocky edges and sandy areas. The site is not patrolled by lifeguards, so visitors should assess conditions themselves and follow water quality advice from LAWA.
What Visitors Often Say
Urquharts Bay offers one of the calmer swimming and snorkelling spots on the Whangārei Heads, with clear water and occasional marine life sightings such as seals near the rocks.
The Smugglers Bay Loop Track provides a pleasant bush walk with ocean views and returns to a refreshing swim at Urquharts Bay.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Smugglers Bay Loop Track: Official details on the track route, distance, grade and features from Urquharts Bay.
Land, Air, Water Aotearoa (LAWA) – Urquharts Bay: Current water quality information and swimming advice for the bay.
Department of Conservation – Whangārei Heads area: Overview of reserves, tracks and facilities around Urquharts Bay and Bream Head Scenic Reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is snorkelling good at Urquharts Bay?
Yes, the sheltered harbour waters are typically calm with good visibility for observing reef fish, rock lobster and scallops near the rocks.
Where does the Smugglers Bay Loop Track start?
The track starts from the Urquharts Bay car park at the end of Urquharts Bay Road. Follow signs near the toilet block for the loop.
Are there dolphins or seals at Urquharts Bay?
Dolphins and seals are occasionally spotted in the bay, though sightings are not guaranteed.
Is there parking at Urquharts Bay?
Yes, there is a free public car park with toilets at the end of the bay. It can fill up on busy summer weekends.
How far is Urquharts Bay from Whangārei?
It is approximately 35–38 km from Whangārei city centre, about a 40-minute drive via Whangārei Heads Road.
Is Urquharts Bay patrolled by lifeguards?
No, the bay is not patrolled. Visitors should swim according to their own assessment and current conditions.
What is the best time to visit Urquharts Bay?
The bay is accessible year-round. Check LAWA for water quality updates, especially after rainfall.
Are dogs allowed at Urquharts Bay?
Dog access follows standard Whangārei District Council rules for beaches; check current bylaws before visiting.
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