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Overview
Located on the eastern coast of the North Island in the Far North region of New Zealand, Rarawa Beach is a long white sand beach. The beach is positioned near the Aupouri Peninsula and has a spectacular backdrop of sand dunes, scrubland, wild vegetation, and a few oceanfront buildings, creating a picturesque setting along the Tasman Sea. There is a small stream, popularly known as Rarawa Stream, that flows into the ocean, creating a picturesque estuary. This beach is part of the Paxton Point Conservation Area and is promoted as an ecotourism destination, encouraging sustainable tourism practices that preserve its natural environment and marine life.
Amenities
Rarawa Beach, New Zealand, does not have lifeguards or any other amenities, except a campground, so plan your trip accordingly.
Activities
Rarawa Beach offers many fun activities, including swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, snorkeling, driving, hiking, camping, picnicking, and photography. If you plan to go into the water, the waters are generally calm, but we recommend being careful, as water is known to have unpredictable rip currents. Visitors can enjoy surfcasting for tuatua (a native shellfish) in the sand at low tide. If you enjoy surfing, the beach offers great opportunities for surfers due to amazing Rarawa Beach tides and frequent windy weather. Snorkelers and divers may spot the diverse marine life in its clear waters. Hikers can enjoy the nearby hiking trails, which offer unique insights into the local biodiversity. If you want to enjoy Rarawa Beach camping, you may book the nearby Rarawa Beach Campsite. Depending on the time of year, visitors may spot manta rays, sharks, whales, reef sharks, New Zealand dotterels, and oystercatchers. This beach is known for its unique white sand and clear water, making it a photographer’s dream. Dogs are not allowed here, and this beach is open from sunrise until sunset.
Disability Access
Rarawa Beach, Northland, does not offer an access path for people with disabilities.
Parking
Getting to Rarawa Beach is easy - the beach has a small parking lot located near Rarawa Beach Road, Ngataki 0484, New Zealand, which offers easy access to the beach.
Fun Fact
Rarawa Beach is famous for its powdery white silica sand, some of the purest in the world due to its high silica content.
Attractions
There are many attractions near Rarawa Beach. Cape Reinga is located at the northernmost tip of New Zealand's North Island, where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean meet. It is one of New Zealand's most iconic landmarks and considered a spiritually significant place for the Maori people. In addition, there is a lighthouse at Cape Reinga, built in 1941, that stands as a beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the vast ocean, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches. Te Paki Sand Dunes - also known as Giant Sand Dunes - are home to towering dunes that can reach heights of up to 100 meters, creating a desert-like landscape with stunning views of the surrounding area. These massive sand dunes are ever-shifting sands perfect for sandboarding, photography, and exploration. They provide an adrenaline-filled adventure close to the beach.
Gumdiggers Park showcases the history of gumdiggers, who excavated kauri gum (fossilized tree resin) during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can take guided tours to explore authentic gum digging sites and tools used by diggers and learn about the historical significance of the area. The Butler Point Whaling Museum has a gallery that displays an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and related memorabilia that provide intriguing insight into the history and heritage of the whaling industry of the region. In addition, it hosts interesting educational programs and events for all age groups throughout the year. If you are looking for another nearby attraction, the Mokaikai Recreation Reserve is home to lush native forests, diverse wildlife, and tranquil walking trails, where visitors can enjoy many fun activities, including picnicking, hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography, in this tranquil setting.
Restaurants
If you get hungry, there are many great restaurants near Rarawa Beach. Sandbar & Restaurant serves amazing salads, seafood, meat, and poultry dishes. The Wild Belle Restaurant serves salads, pasta, pizzas, meat, seafood, and poultry dishes. Pukenui Pacific serves delicious seafood. Fish and chips serves delicious food. If you are looking for another good and affordable restaurant nearby, The Burger Bus serves incredible burgers.There are not many restaurants near Rarawa Beach, so it is recommended to bring your own food and drinks or visit nearby towns like Kaitaia or Ahipara for more dining options.
Hotels
If you are looking for Rarawa Beach accommodation, there are many great options nearby. If you are looking for an upscale hotel, the 4-Star Whatuwhiwhi TOP 10 Holiday Park is one hour and 28 minutes away by car and offers a few amenities, including comfortable rooms and a kitchen in some rooms. A more affordable hotel is the 4-Star, Golden Sand and Driftwood Beach Front Accommodation, which offers a few amenities, including a hot tub, a fitness center, a kitchen in all rooms, and an outdoor seating area. Another moderately priced option is the 3-Star Tekao Lodge, which has several amenities, including a garden and free Wifi. A more reasonably priced option is the 3-Star Pukenui Lodge Motel, which has a few amenities, including an outdoor pool, a garden, and a barbecue grill area. If you are looking for another affordable hotel, Ngapae Holiday Park - also known as 90 Mile Beach Camp - has a swimming pool, a playground, cabins, free Wi-Fi, and dining areas.
Amenities
Activities
Camping
Surfing
Rentals
Food
Access
Foot Access
Parking - Free
Features
Top Traveler Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!
Does Rarawa Beach have parking? If so, is it free or paid?
Yes, this Beach provides free parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for easy access to the beach.
Does Rarawa Beach have lifeguards?
No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.
Is Rarawa Beach a family-friendly beach?
No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.
Is Rarawa Beach good for swimming?
Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.
Does Rarawa Beach have restrooms?
No, this Beach does not have restrooms on or near the beach.
Is Rarawa Beach a nude beach?
No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.
Is there food near Rarawa Beach?
No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.
What are the activities at Rarawa Beach?
Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Camping, Surfing.
Does Rarawa Beach have accommodations for people with disabilities?
No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.
Is Rarawa Beach a dog-friendly beach?
No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.
Is Rarawa Beach good for surfing?
Yes, surfing is an activity that is frequently enjoyed at this Beach.