The Blue Pool

"If the water recedes a little more, you can go to a nicer place. If you walk a little in the opposite direction from Lion Rock, you will come out. it's a beautiful place"

"The pool is green but surreal foam around"

"good"

"Fun place!"

"The Blue Pool is a collection of tidal, salt water pools at the southern end of Piha Beach. The area is unique and beautiful! The pools are formed in an area behind a gap (known as “The Gap” by locals) in the rocks between Taitomo Island and the southern shore, which provides a good wave break and protection from the rough ocean. The Pool is mostly shallow, but gets deeper at high tide, and is very deep in the center where the waves crash over the rocks. It is very popular with locals and tourists alike as a great place to relax and swim with some protection from the rough surf. It’s a good place for kids to play in the water, without the risk of the rough waves, but there are no lifeguards on this portion of the beach. Because it is tidal, the water is deepest and the pool is much larger at high tide. Just be aware that it is more difficult to get to the pools when the tide is at its peak. (See explanation below) The surrounding beach area is bounded by rocky hills, so it affords more privacy than the large, open beaches. There are a few shaded areas to relax in along the edge of the rocky cliffs, but be careful to watch for falling rocks. It can be busier on weekends or holidays, but on many weekdays, we have been the only couple lounging there! Remember that the beach here is just like Piha Beach- black sand... So, the sand gets hot in the sunshine! Wear beach shoes or sandals, and take a large beach towel with you. There are no restrooms on this area of the beach. The closest ones are at the south Piha Beach parking area. It is easy to get to the Pools at low tide by just walking along the southern end of Piha Beach towards Taitomo Rock. You will continue along the beach until you pass the natural tunnel (called “The Gap” by locals), then you will see the Blue Pools to your left. At high tide, when the beach access route is obstructed by waves, the best way to reach the Pools or return from the Pools is to use the trail that accesses the Tasman Lookout. If you start from the south end of the beach parking lot, just find the trail near the turnaround and take the trail up to the lookout, then keep going past the lookout. The trail will go along the ridge, then turn down to the beach so that you can access the Pools. If you are at the Pools when the tide comes in, you are not trapped! Just walk to the southern end of the enclosed beach area to find the sign for the trail to the Tasman Lookout, and take that trail back to the parking area. The last thing to know is that the south parking area for Piha Beach is often very crowded on weekends or holidays, and on weekdays it can be crowded around the popular surfing times or sunset time. If you can’t find parking, drive around to the grass parking area adjacent to the Bowling Club (on the left past the campground and Piha Store), then walk across the bridge to access the southern part of Piha Beach"