Te Arai Point Beach and Forestry Beach are both popular surfing destinations on either side of Te Arai headlands. Many locals surf both beaches, and visitors are always welcome (especially dolphins, which visit occasionally). Below is some information about surfing at these beaches, which will help you surf like a local.

Te Arai Point Beach

• Surfing level: Suitable for all levels, from beginners to experts.
• Surf break type: Right-handers and beach breaks.
• Best swell direction: East to northeast.
• Best wind direction: West to southwest.
• Best tide: Mid to high tide.
• Crowds: Can now get crowded during peak season and on weekends, so be prepared.

To find Te Arai Point Beach from Auckland, you can follow these directions:

1. From Auckland, head north on State Highway 1 until you reach Warkworth.
2. Continue north on State Highway 1 until you reach the turnoff for Wellsford.
3. Just before you reach Wellsford, turn right onto Wayby Valley Road.
4. After about 1 kilometer, turn right onto Whangaripo Valley Road.
5. After about 5 kilometers, turn left onto Waiteitei Road.
6. After about 4 kilometers, turn right onto Mangawhai Road.
7. After about 2 kilometers, turn right onto Te Arai Point Road.
8. Follow Te Arai Point Road until you reach the car park.

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Forestry Beach

• Surfing level: Suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers.
• Surf break type: Beach breaks and a left-hand point break.
• Best swell direction: East to northeast.
• Best wind direction: West to southwest.
• Best tide: Mid to high tide.
• Crowds: Relatively uncrowded compared to Te Arai Point (and just over the other side of the headland. Ssshhh, we're telling you about a secret local spot).

To find Forestry Beach in Te Arai, you can follow these directions:

1. From Auckland, head north on State Highway 1 until you reach Warkworth.
2. Continue north on State Highway 1 until you reach the turnoff for Wellsford.
3. Just before you reach Wellsford, turn right onto Wayby Valley Road.
4. After about 1 kilometer, turn right onto Whangaripo Valley Road.
5. After about 5 kilometers, turn left onto Forestry Road. You will see a sign for Te Arai regional park at the turnoff.
6. Follow Forestry Road until you reach the beach car park.
7. Once you reach the car park, you can walk down to the beach and find a spot to surf or relax.

Both beaches offer stunning scenery and clear waters, making them great spots for surfing and relaxing. It's always a good idea to check local surf reports and weather conditions before heading out to these beaches. Also, be mindful of safety precautions posted at the beach, such as rips, changing currents and fishing lines. Please never surf alone.

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