Waimarama Beach
Hastings, New Zealand
Hemming a stretch of coastline in Hawke’s Bay on New Zealand’s North Island, Waimarama Beach serves as a magnet for beachgoers while still exuding a sense of splendid isolation. Here, eggshell-white sands, topaz seas, white breakers, and ocean views unfurl for around 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) past the wooden bungalows of Waimarama village, tempting sunbathers, young families, surfers, and sightseers.
The basics
Running south from Ocean Beach and the northern fringes of Waimarama village, Waimarama Beach attracts a wide range of visitors. In summer, families play and picnic on the sands and low dunes while swimmers and bodyboarders come to hit the waters in the flag-marked safe zones. Surfers, on the other hand, flock here throughout the year to ride the bay’s right- and left-breaking waves. Jogging, walking, fishing, and sunset strolls—all complemented by romantic views over rocky Bare Island to the south—are also popular.
Things to know before you go
Bring beach chairs, sun umbrellas, sunscreen, bottled water, and a sun hat.
Picnic tables, restrooms, a playground, and free parking line the beach.
Lifeguards patrol the southern end of the beach every weekend from December through March.
How to get there
Waimarama Beach runs alongside the bungalows of the seaside community of Waimarama, about 22 miles (35 kilometers) southeast of Hastings in Hawke’s Bay. Public transport is scarce in the area, so the easiest access is by cab or rental car. From Hastings, take the Waimarama Road southeast to Waimarama, then follow Harper Road to the beachfront Domain Reserve. If the free parking lot here is busy, park on the nearby roads.
When to get there
New Zealand’s summer months of December–March are prime for enjoying Waimarama Beach: expect clear skies and daytime highs of around 77°F (25°C). Summer weekends and holidays are especially busy; avoid the crowds by visiting on a weekday, or come in the early evening when the sunset views over Bare Island are magical. The best times for surfers are mid-tide and winter (May being ideal) when the waves are consistent and clean.
Swimming at Waimarama Beach
While swimming at Waimarama Beach is popular, ensure you follow the official guidance here. The waters can be affected by riptides, so take care to swim only in the areas marked by red and yellow flags, which are regularly moved according to conditions. If you’re here with young children, a small creek at the northern end of the beach is ideal for paddling, although you should still be aware of any nearby advisory signs.
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