- A rugged and spectacular beach with an iconic rock formation.
- It has magnetic black sands from volcanoes and a famous surf zone.
- Only 45 minutes drive from Auckland city
- READ MORE: The best beaches in New Zealand
A stretch of coastline on New Zealand’s North Island has been named the “best beach in the world.”
Phia Beach is located in the coastal town of Phia, 45 minutes west of Auckland, and is famous for its stunning natural beauty and striking magnetic black sands.
Enjoy Travel, a global travel authority, awarded the beach first place out of 50, ahead of Stokes Bay in South Australia and Moon Bay in Slovenia.
Unlike the more popular white sand beaches with gentle tides, Phia is often a steep, treacherous bay with powerful currents that can make swimming difficult.
That said, there is a marked area for swimming and patrolled by lifeguards in the summer.
‘Mesmerizing’ magnetic black sands result from ancient volcanic activity in Phia Beach area
Lion Rock, known locally as Te Piha, is an imposing and iconic feature looming over the sands.
It is the strong currents and top swell that makes surfers from all over the world call Phia Beach their favorite destination.
In fact, it was on the Phia break in 1958 that two Californian surfers first introduced contemporary surfing to New Zealand.
The surf isn’t just for elite surfers, with “fun and innovative” surf lessons available at Phia Surf Academy. They teach all ages and levels, with a dedicated course for children.
Lion Rock, known locally as Te Piha, is an imposing and iconic feature rising above the sands between Phia and North Phia beaches.
It promises fascinating, far-reaching views, and what one visitor called “really cool” climbing.
Travelers going to the beach enjoy the crashing waves. Fabulous landscapes and pure beauty that one tourist said “always clears away the cobwebs.”
One beachgoer commented on the “fascinating patterns” that the “breaking waves” create in the magnetic black sand, especially along the estuary.
Spectacular rock formations at Phia Beach
Maori legend says that Phia is the location of an underwater cave that houses a mythical creature.
“It’s one of the best beaches I’ve seen so far…scintillating,” said one visitor.
Others said Auckland “felt like a world away” even though it was only a 45-minute drive away.
The magic in the air, water and sand seems to date back to the Moari legend, which has Phia Beach as the location of an underwater cave where a powerful mythical creature lived.
Aerial view of the “best beach in the world” Phia, New Zealand
A hiker watching Phia’s magnificent sunsets was fascinated by “the long white clouds on the horizon”, from which Aotearoa takes its name.
Another local who had waited years to visit gushed that Phia Beach “embodies the rugged beauty of the west coast.”
Those who would like a guided exploration of the area can book a tour with Bush and beach.
AND Murray Phia It’s an easy food stop right next to the beach where visitors can grab plenty of burritos, nachos, pastries, and ice cream to enjoy while taking in the incredible views.
However, if you are traveling during the winter, some places may close for up to a month during the colder season.
There are also many homestays, bed and breakfasts and Airbnbs offering accommodation in the Phia Beach region.
Phia is an ideal and easy day trip from Auckland city.
Auckland is a 3 hour 40 minute flight from Sydney.