Wharariki Beach

Pūponga

Wharariki Road, Pūponga 7073

Wharariki Beach is undoubtedly one of the most photographed beaches in New Zealand.

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blurry placeholderWharariki Beach sand dunes at sunset
blurry placeholderWharariki Beach at sunset
Wharariki Beach went from a hidden gem to a must-see spot in 2015 when it got featured as one of the Windows 10 desktop screensavers.

It is adorned with a scattering of caves, rocks, and arches shaped entirely by the elements of the wild west coast. A short walk through coastal forests and rolling pastures reveals a beach so large you could explore it for days.

Windswept dunes and sculpted cliffs frame the two archway islands dominating the seascape, while secluded coves and tranquil rockpools are discoverable at every turn. The resident seal colony can often be bounding along the beach, whilst coastal birds dive playfully through the peppercress bushes lining the sand dunes.

Weather Considerations

Weather is wild, and swimming is prohibited.

Contact details

Address: Wharariki Road, Pūponga 7073

Directions