Ocean Beaches

Omanu Beach Tauranga: Family Swimming and Surf Club

Last updated October 2026

Omanu Beach is a popular family beach in the suburb of Omanu, Tauranga. It features a wide stretch of white sand backed by houses and sand dunes.

The beach attracts locals and visitors for swimming and beach activities, especially during summer. The Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club provides patrols and runs extensive junior programmes. Swimmers are advised to stay between the flags when they are in place.

Surf Facts

Map of the surf break — Surf breaks: Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

Today at Omanu Beach

Friday 13 November

Tide falling · 0.7 m now

Sea

17.7°C

Fresh, fine for a quick dip

10 very high

Cover up 9am to 5pm

Sunset

8:02pm

Light till about 8:30pm

UV: worked out for a clear day from the height of the sun and typical ozone; cloud lowers it, but you can still burn.

Surf break at Omanu Beach

The surf break at Omanu Beach is shown in blue on the map above. The compass shows which way it faces, the swell that can reach it and the wind that blows offshore there, which is when the waves are cleanest.

1Mount Maunganui (Mount Coast)Beach break

FacesNortheastSwell reaches it fromThe north round to east-northeast, and the east round to east-southeast, and the northwest round to northOffshore windFrom the southwestBest tideNot recordedLegal accessNext to a formed legal road

Position checked on LINZ aerial photos

Swell can reach itFacesOffshore wind from

Before you paddle out

These facts say what suits each break, not whether it’s safe today. Surf breaks have rips, rocks and changing conditions. If you’re learning, surf where and when lifeguards patrol, and check the conditions yourself before going in.

Legal access isn’t always easy access: paper roads are often unformed or fenced, so leave gates as you find them.

Practical Information

Location: Omanu suburb, Tauranga
Beach type: White sandy beach with dunes and residential backdrop
Surf club: Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club, founded 1947
Membership: Over 700 financial members
Junior programme: One of New Zealand’s largest, approximately 400 nippers
Patrols: During summer months; check the surf club for this season’s times
Dogs: Restricted areas; check Tauranga City Council rules near surf club
Access: Public beach access points and car parking available

About Omanu Beach

Omanu Beach lies in the Omanu neighbourhood of Tauranga on the Bay of Plenty coast. The beach offers a family-friendly setting with its broad white sand and gentle dunes. Residential properties line much of the foreshore, creating a suburban coastal atmosphere.

Swimming and Beach Safety

Swimmers should always enter the water between the red and yellow flags when patrols are operating. The Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club provides patrols during the summer season; check the club for this season’s times. Lifeguards monitor conditions and respond to incidents as needed.

Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club

The club was established in 1947 and has grown into the largest surf life saving club in the Bay of Plenty. It currently has more than 700 financial members, including patrolling members, competitors, and supporters. The club operates from its base on Surf Road.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Omanu Beach patrolled?

Yes, the Omanu Surf Life Saving Club patrols the beach in summer.

Can I take my dog to Omanu Beach?

Dogs are restricted in certain areas near the surf club; check current Tauranga City Council rules for exact zones and times.

What is the junior surf programme like?

The club runs one of New Zealand’s largest junior surf programmes with around 400 participants learning beach safety and lifesaving skills.

Is the beach suitable for families?

Yes, it is popular with families for its sandy beach and community atmosphere, though conditions should always be checked.

How many members does the surf club have?

The club has more than 700 financial members and is the largest in the Bay of Plenty.

When was the club founded?

The Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club was established in 1947.

Are there rips at Omanu Beach?

Rips and holes can form, particularly when swells exceed one metre; always swim between the flags when present.

Where is Omanu Beach located?

It is situated in the Omanu suburb of Tauranga, with public access points and parking available.

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