Discover the most beautiful coasts across the North and South Islands.

New Zealand is a stunning South Pacific country filled with white-sand shores, hidden coves, and colorful reefs.

Awaroa Beach is nothing if not beloved.

Cathedral Cove, New Zealand

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Kayak or paddleboard the crystal-clear waves or recline on the wide, sunny coast and enjoy the otherworldly views.

The beach is a 90-minute boat ride from Kaiteriteri.

Traverse a 20-minute walking track from the end of Wharariki Road to get to this golden stretch.

a woman walks on a sand bar between turquoise waters in Abel Tasman National Park

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Youll likely recognize its Archway Islands, a trio of huge, photogenic rocks shaped like arches.

The long and idyllic white-sand beach is a great place to lie out or surf the waves.

The peninsula has paradisiacal beaches, gold-mining history, and plenty of summer fun.

Wharariki Beach, New Zealand

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Then, descend to the cathedral-like arched cavern and pass through to reach two secluded coves.

Picnic in the shade of the fragrant pohutukawa trees or snorkel in the blue-green waters.

Or, enjoy the scenery from offshore on a boat ride around the white cliffs.

Mount Maunganui, New Zealand

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Soak in the steamy waters while you gaze out at the surfers playing on the waves.

In fact, youll need sunglasses to beat the glare coming off the quartz coastline.

Look out for New Zealand dotterels and variable oystercatchers, which nest in the dunes.

people on a beach dig holes that fill up with naturally hot water

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If you don’t want to leave this natural paradise, spend the night at thecampsiteon a nearby riverbank.

Sizable waves and super-soft black sand make it a favorite among athletes and sunbathers alike.

In reality, the storied sandy strip is just over 54 miles.

Moeraki Boulders on Koekohe Beach, Otago Region, South Island, New Zealand

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This beach is known for three things: sunsets, seals, and snow-capped peaks.

Rarawa beach Northland, NZ

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beach at karekare, new zealand

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Ninety Mile Beach, New Zealand

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Aerial View of Coastline, Gillespies Beach, Whataroa, Westland National Park, West Coast, South Island, New Zealand

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Maitai Bay

Maitai Bay. DanielHarwardt/Getty Images.