Mangawhai Local Guide
Your Mangawhai local guide to Beaches, Walks, Eats & Hidden Gems
Mangawhai is the kind of place that never tries too hard - it doesn’t need to. With its easy beach-town charm, great local food, weekend markets and coastline that feels straight from a postcard, there’s always something to enjoy.
Whether you’re here to relax, wander, or ease into slow mornings with coffee, this Mangawhai local guide brings together the best of what the area has to offer.
A relaxed escape just footsteps from the water
- close to all the local favourites.
W here slow mornings lead to sunny afternoons to holidays of long lasting memories.
Top 5 things to do in Mangawhai
Here are five Mangawhai moments we think you’ll love during your stay.
Spend the day at Mangawhai Heads Beach
Great waves, golden sand, perfect for surfing, swimming, and long sandy walks.
Explore the Scenic Mangawhai Cliff Walk
Epic views, sculpted cliffs, native bush and hidden coves. One of Northland’s best coastal tracks.
Paddleboard, kayak or boating on the Estuary
Calm, safe water ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding and boating activities.
Visit Bennetts Chocolate Shop & Courtyard Café
Handcrafted chocolates, gelato, coffee and a sunny courtyard. A Mangawhai essential.
Wander the Mangawhai Tavern & local markets
Fresh food, homemade treats, live music and local makers - a perfect Saturday ritual.
Ready to unwind in Mangawhai?
Book your stay at our cosy, classic Kiwi bach - footsteps from the estuary and close to all the local favourites.
Sweet treats and easy morning starts
Slow mornings are part of the magic here. Whether you’re after a cosy coffee stop or a sweet treat to ease into the day, you’ll find plenty of options nearby.
Bennetts Chocolate Shop
Start your day at Bennetts Chocolate Shop, famous for handcrafted chocolates, gelato, and its cosy courtyard café. It’s a Mangawhai staple - and the perfect way to ease into a sunny coastal morning.
Mangawhai Village
If you’re chasing great coffee or a relaxed brunch, Mangawhai Village has several favourites within an easy stroll, all with that laid-back beach-town feel.
Lunch, dinner and local eats
From casual pub meals to fresh, flavour-packed dishes, Mangawhai has plenty of places to enjoy lunch or dinner. The village is home to several local favourites - including the Mangawhai Tavern - and a few hidden gems worth seeking out.
Gringas
If you’re craving something fun and full of flavour, Gringas serves some of the best Mexican in the region - colourful plates, tacos, and margaritas.
Rik’s Café at Te Arai Links
For something more refined, Rik’s Café at Te Arai Links offers beautiful food and drinks overlooking the rolling greens. Ideal for late lunches, celebrations, or a quiet drink as the sun dips.
Explore local culture
Step into the Mangawhai Museum to discover the area’s coastal history, shipwreck tales and local stories.
Then add a touch of nostalgia with the Mangawhai community movie theatre, which screens a film every Saturday night - simple, charming and surprisingly full of character.
Further afield - wine, woodfired pizza and day trip adventures
If you feel like exploring a little further, Mangawhai’s neighbours offer easy, memorable outings - a relaxed vineyard afternoon, a drive to Waipu for woodfired pizza, or a browse through Kaiwaka’s vintage shops.
Brook Lane Vineyard
For a slow afternoon drink, Brook Lane Vineyard is a lovely local spot with a relaxed outdoor setting.
McCleod's Pizza Barn & Brewery
Keen for a drive? Follow the coast through Langs Beach to Waipu, where the iconic McLeod’s Pizza Barn & Brewery awaits - cold beer, woodfired pizza and easy holiday vibes.
Vintage finds - nearby Kaiwaka
If you love a good rummage, explore the antique and vintage shops dotted around Mangawhai and nearby Kaiwaka. Expect quirky Kiwiana, retro furniture, nostalgic finds, and one-off treasures.
Explore, unwind, and stay awhile
Book your relaxed escape just footsteps from the water.
