Karioitahi Beach

Karioitahi Beach is a stunning black sand beach located in Franklin, New Zealand. The beach stretches for over 3 kilometers and has a strikingly beautiful, dark-colored sand.

Karioitahi Beach also offers amenities such as bathroom access and outdoor showers, although there are no lifeguards on duty, and dogs are not allowed on the beach.

Visitors to the beach can enjoy activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, and horseback riding.

There is a large parking lot available at Karioitahi Beach, which is free of charge. Visitors can park their cars and walk straight onto the beach, making it easy to enjoy all the activities on offer.

Fun fact: Karioitahi Beach is a popular spot for hang gliders and paragliders, who take advantage of the strong winds and high cliffs in the area.

In addition to the beach, visitors can also explore the nearby Matakawau Point and the impressive Muriwai Gannet Colony, where they can see thousands of gannets nesting and breeding.

There are a few nearby restaurants that offer a range of cuisines, such as the local Fish and Chips spot, Beachlands Charcoal Chicken, and the Franklin Road Kitchen café.

For those looking to stay nearby, Castaways Resort is a great option. It is located right on Karioitahi Beach and offers a variety of accommodation options, such as villas, chalets, and glamping tents.