Waimarama Beach
Miles of stunning golden sand and clean waters on Hawke's Bay's east coast, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Patrolled & pleasant temperatures
Waimarama Beach
Best Time
Patrolled & pleasant temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Miles of stunning golden sand and clean waters on Hawke's Bay's east coast, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
"Lovely place and beaches for miles. Nice sandy beach. Clean water."
🚗 Half-Hour Drive from Hastings
Easy day trip from Hastings, enjoy the scenic drive to this coastal gem!
☀️ Summer Lifeguard Patrols
Lifeguards are on duty during summer for safer swimming.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 70 reviews
Type
Beach
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Sands
Waimarama Beach
Miles of stunning, soft golden sand perfect for strolls, sandcastles, and soaking up the sun.
Clean Waters
Waimarama Beach
Inviting, clean waters ideal for swimming, bodyboarding, and enjoying the refreshing ocean.
Coastal Views
Waimarama Beach
Beautiful, expansive views of the Hawke's Bay coastline, offering a picturesque backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Summer Patrols & Off-Season Visits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Half-Hour Drive from Hastings
Easy day trip from Hastings, enjoy the scenic drive to this coastal gem!
☀️ Summer Lifeguard Patrols
Lifeguards are on duty during summer for safer swimming.
🌊 Watch for Swells
Can have decent swells, great for bodyboarding but be mindful of tides.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach
Dogs are allowed, making it a great spot for furry friends too.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Half-Hour Drive from Hastings
Easy day trip from Hastings, enjoy the scenic drive to this coastal gem!
☀️ Summer Lifeguard Patrols
Lifeguards are on duty during summer for safer swimming.
🌊 Watch for Swells
Can have decent swells, great for bodyboarding but be mindful of tides.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach
Dogs are allowed, making it a great spot for furry friends too.
🏖️ Soft Sand Bliss
Enjoy the beautiful, soft sand, a welcome change from pebble beaches.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Waimarama Beach's stunning golden sands and clean waters, calling it a lovely place with beaches for miles. It's praised for being uncrowded and great for families, with dogs also welcome. Some note that the swell and high tide can reduce the available beach space, but this doesn't detract from its overall appeal as a beautiful coastal spot.
"Lovely place and beaches for miles. Nice sandy beach. Clean water."
Howard I (G)
"Stunning golden sand beach on the exposed part of the Hawke's Bay East Coast.
The beach is patrolled over the summer, although it's a relatively safe beach, so good for the kiddies.
The day we went there was a pretty decent swell running, and the tide was very high, which meant there wasn't a lot of beach to relax on without getting wet from the incoming breakers. It didn't put a dampener on things, but it meant we were forced into the lower dunes to set up our spot.
Our little kiddies had fun just running up and down the beach, building sandcastles, and jumping the whitewater in the shallows. Our oldest kid had fun body boarding between the flags, and we will go back there when the swell is smaller so she can give surfing a go.
All in all a great beach; well worth the half hour drive from Hastings, and a must do when in the Hawke's Bay."
Rob Hannagan
"Great experience
Tidy sand beach
Not crowded"
Gurvinder Sujjon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waimarama Beach is approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Napier, depending on traffic. The route primarily involves heading south on State Highway 2 and then taking local roads towards the coast. It's a scenic drive through the Hawke's Bay region.
Public transport options directly to Waimarama Beach are limited. It is best accessed by car. Consider carpooling or ride-sharing if you don't have your own vehicle.
The drive from Hastings to Waimarama Beach is about 30 minutes. It's a straightforward journey, making it a popular day trip destination for locals and visitors.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near Waimarama Beach, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day during summer to secure a good spot.
Driving on Waimarama Beach is generally not permitted to preserve the natural environment and ensure safety for beachgoers. Stick to designated parking areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Waimarama Beach is a public beach and does not have an entry fee. You can enjoy its natural beauty and amenities free of charge.
Waimarama Beach is open 24/7, as it is a natural public space. However, lifeguard services are only available during the summer months.
It is highly recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the peak summer season. Options include holiday houses, baches, and chalets. 
Generally, beach access is open. However, during specific events or for conservation purposes, temporary restrictions might be in place. Always check local signage.
Yes, Waimarama Beach is suitable for children, especially during summer when lifeguards are on duty. The sandy beach is great for sandcastles and shallow water play.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, bodyboarding, and surfing (when conditions are right). It's also a great spot for a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Waimarama Beach is generally not crowded, offering a peaceful experience. It can be busier during peak summer weekends but usually remains uncrowded compared to other popular beaches.
Yes, lifeguards patrol Waimarama Beach during the summer months. It's always advisable to swim between the flags for safety.
Yes, dogs are allowed on Waimarama Beach, making it a great destination for pet owners. Please be mindful of other beachgoers and clean up after your pet.
The sand at Waimarama Beach is described as beautiful, soft, and golden, offering a pleasant experience underfoot.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining options directly at Waimarama Beach. The local store often offers takeaways like burgers, which is a popular choice for visitors. For more extensive dining, you'll need to travel to nearby towns like Havelock North or Napier.
Absolutely! Waimarama Beach is a perfect spot for a picnic. Pack your own food and enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
For a wider selection of restaurants and cafes, consider visiting Havelock North (approx. 20-minute drive) or Napier (approx. 45-minute drive). These towns offer diverse culinary experiences.
Yes, there is a local store at Waimarama Beach that offers basic supplies and takeaway food, such as burgers. It's a convenient spot for a quick bite.
For full grocery shopping, it's best to stock up before you arrive or plan a trip to nearby towns like Havelock North or Hastings. The local store at Waimarama offers limited convenience items.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers stunning light for photography. The beach can also look dramatic and cinematic under moody or stormy skies.
Capture wide-angle shots of the expansive beach, close-ups of the golden sand, and dynamic images of the waves. The coastal scenery provides endless photographic opportunities.
While the beach itself offers great perspectives, consider elevated spots along the dunes or nearby coastal tracks for panoramic views of the beach and ocean.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the beach. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance the colors of the sea and sky.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. Always check with the local council or relevant authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance with airspace rules and privacy considerations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit