About the path
Get away from the crowds and discover the unspoiled beauty of remote Tawhitokino Beach.
Tawhitokino has been named as one of Auckland's top ten 'secret beaches'. It's only accessible by foot, kayak or small boat, so prepare for an adventure!
This low tide walk for confident walkers takes you from Waiti Bay to Tawhitokino. The coastal walk is backed by farmland and regenerating bush.
You can only do the walk at low tide, so check tides before you go and allow adequate time for the return trip.
Start your walk at Waiti Bay, on Kawakawa Bay Coast Road. Waiti Bay is a safe swimming beach and also a great spot for fishing.
Follow the Tawhitokino Track around the rocks, through the bush and over Papanui Point. Be prepared to get your feet wet crossing streams. Bring your camera, there are great views over Tuturau Bay, Ponui Island and the Hauraki Gulf.
Tawhitokino is a beautiful secluded stretch of white sand beach. Here you can enjoy swimming, picnicking and exploring the surrounding area.
Make sure you pack a picnic and plenty of water. Basic public toilets are available at Waiti Bay and Tawhitokino Beach.
Tawhitokino Regional Park is a great day trip, or you can book to stay overnight at the Tawhitokino campsite.
Tawhitokino is one of six regional parks on Auckland's south east coast which form the stopping points for the Te Ara Moana kayak trail.