Karaka Bay

It may bit a bit of a mission to get to but it’s 100% worth it — an absolute hidden gem!
You access the beach via a steep track off Peacock St. Make sure you take everything you need because you won’t want to be heading back up there in a hurry.
Perfect for a picnic under the trees with friends or a somewhat secluded date!

If you are keen for a good workout before going for a dip then this is perfect. Karaka Bay is found around the winding Riddell Road, down Peacock St. You will find yourself lucky to manœuvre into a tight spot on the slope that is the car park. Sometimes it is better to park on Riddell Road and just embrace the walk down, as there is an even harder trek to come anyway. Once you make your way down the snaking track, legs burning, Karaka Bay beach can be found.
High tide with a Westerly breeze, or none at all, will ensure perfect swimming conditions. For the non-​swimmers, it is a beautiful picnic spot — a good location would be under the hanging Pohutakawa tree at the right hand end of the beach.