Urquharts Bay is a sheltered beach on the western side of Whangārei Heads, about 35 kilometres from Whangārei city. Facing into the harbour rather than the open Pacific, the water here is typically calm and clear — well suited to swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding. It’s also the starting point for the Smugglers Bay Loop Track, a popular DOC walk to a secluded beach around the headland.
Practical Information
| Location | Urquharts Bay Road, Whangārei Heads |
|---|---|
| Distance from city | Approx. 35 km / 40 minutes from Whangārei city centre |
| Parking | Free car park at the end of the bay — toilets available |
| Activities | Swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, walking |
| Lifeguard | Not patrolled |
| Cost | Free |
About Urquharts Bay
The bay curves around a sheltered inlet at the base of the Whangārei Heads volcanic peninsula. The water is calm for most of the year, and the visibility is good enough for snorkelling — you can expect to see reef fish, rock lobster, and the occasional scallop on the sandy bottom near the rocks. Dolphins and seals are occasionally spotted in the bay, and the Hen and Chicken Islands are visible on the horizon.
The far end of the beach, at the base of Bream Head, contains unusual spherical concretions of sandstone — naturally formed rock balls embedded in the cliff face. They’re worth a look if you walk to the southern end of the bay.
Smugglers Bay Loop Track
The car park at Urquharts Bay is the starting point for the Smugglers Bay Loop Track, a DOC-managed walk through the Bream Head Scenic Reserve. The 4.5 km loop takes approximately 1.5 hours and passes through coastal forest, over the headland known as Busby Head, and down to Smugglers Bay — a secluded white sand beach on the far side. WWII gun emplacements are visible along the track. A short detour to the tip of Busby Head adds panoramic coastal views.
What Visitors Say
“One of the best swimming spots at Whangarei Heads — calm and clear, with good snorkelling around the rocks. We saw a seal basking on the rocks at the far end.”
“Did the Smugglers Bay loop from the car park — beautiful walk through bush with ocean views. Urquharts Bay is a great place to cool off when you get back.”
Where to Learn More
DOC — Smugglers Bay Loop Track has track details, distance, grade and what to expect on the walk from Urquharts Bay to Smugglers Bay.
Discover Whangārei Heads — Beaches covers Urquharts Bay alongside the other beaches on the Whangārei Heads peninsula.
PADI — Urquharts Bay dive site has information on the snorkelling and diving potential at Urquharts Bay for those looking to explore underwater.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is snorkelling good at Urquharts Bay?
Yes — the water is typically clear and calm, with reef fish, scallops and rock lobster visible near the rocks. The PADI dive site profile confirms it as a worthwhile snorkelling and diving spot.
Where does the Smugglers Bay track start?
The Smugglers Bay Loop Track starts from the Urquharts Bay car park. Follow the signs from the toilet block. The full loop takes about 1.5 hours.
Are there dolphins at Urquharts Bay?
Dolphins, seals and occasionally whales have been spotted in and around the bay. Sightings are not guaranteed, but they’re common enough to be worth watching for.
Is there parking at Urquharts Bay?
Yes — there is a free car park at the end of the bay with toilets. Parking fills up on busy summer weekends.
How far is Urquharts Bay from Whangārei?
About 35 kilometres, or 40 minutes by car via the Whangārei Heads Road.
Urquharts Bay is part of the swimming beaches around Whangārei guide. The Smugglers Bay Loop Track starts from the Urquharts Bay car park, and McLeod Bay is the next bay along the harbour side of the Heads.