Shakespear Regional Park is an underappreciated gem on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, 45 minutes north of Auckland.

Although not as popular as other regional parks like Tāwharanui, Shakespear has incredible views of the Hauraki Gulf, white sand beaches, and walking tracks that weave through farmland.

The Tiritiri Track is a 4.8km walk that will take you to three lookout points for 360-degree views of the Auckland city skyline, Rakino and Rangitoto Islands, and Wenderholm and Mahurangi regional parks.

I wouldn’t recommend coming here if you’re visiting Auckland on a whirlwind tour. You can see similar sights in places like Tāwharanui Regional Park and combine your trip there with other must-visit locations like Matakana Market. However, if you plan to stay for a while, it is the perfect escape from the city and is worth taking a road trip out here!