As you follow the road north from Claris on Aotea Great Barrier Island, you will get a fleeting glimpse of Awana Bay after crossing over the point that separates the Bay from Kaitoke. Slam on the brakes and park the car in one of the two small parking areas on the side of the road. This is an incredibly beautiful beach, and it is incredibly easy to overlook.
You can walk south around the rocks to a second smaller beach. Near the top of the walk from the road, there is a picnic table. From there, you may spot a natural arch almost immediately to the north. You really need binoculars or a telephoto lens to see it properly.
The Awana Steam also flows into the sea at the north end of the beach. Follow the stream to get to the campground, or drive in a bit further up the main road.
