Discovering Opoutere Beach
Nestled on the Coromandel Peninsula on the east side of the North Island. Opoutere Beach is a beautiful retreat with a secluded beach that features pristine white to golden sands stretching over five kilometres to the north of the beach access and one kilometre to the south. There is a commercial campground, but the beach's length, limited development, and restricted access have preserved its natural charm, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a degree of solitude.
Beach Access and Activities
Access to Opoutere Beach is limited to a 15-minute walk through exotic pine trees and dunes from the car park at Wharekawa Harbour, located near the southern end of the beach. Alternatively, a shorter path is available from the campground, if you are a guest. The beach is also generally safe for swimming, although it is best to stick to an incoming tide.
Most visitors to the beach congregate near the entrance to the beach, leaving plenty of quiet and uncrowded space in either direction. For those eager to explore further, walk north to the end of the beach, then follow the stony coast at low tide all the way to Pauanui. Allow about 3 hours.
How to Get There
To visit Opoutere Beach, take the signposted route from State Highway 25, about 15 kilometres north of Whangamatā. This scenic drive will guide you to the car park at Wharekawa Harbour. Cross the walking bridge and follow the track through the pine trees to the beach. Stay on the path, as some of the pine trees are dying and pose a risk!
Whangamatā and Pauanui are larger beach towns in the area, or check out lesser-known Onemana and Whiritoa to the south.
