CUSTOM PRINTED IN NZ IN 3–5 WORKING DAYS + SHIPPING | FREE NZ SHIPPING OVER $200

Why Kūaotunu Is the Ultimate No-Need-to-Leave Beach Spot

Kūaotunu is one of those special places where you don’t need to go far to have a good time. Whether you're camping with family, staying at the bach, or just visiting for the day, there's plenty to do without even leaving the village!

Being a north facing beach you can even be lucky enough to get an epic sunrise AND an epic sunset!!

Here are some of our favourite low-key adventures, all right in Kūaotunu.

🌊 1. Swim at the main beach

Kūaotunu's main beach is long, golden and great for swimming. It’s ideal for families, boogie boarders, or anyone wanting a good splash around. The waves are usually mellow, and there’s loads of space to spread out.

🐚 2. Check out the rock pools at Greys Beach

At low tide, head to the rocks at the southern end of Greys Beach and see what you can spot — starfish, tiny fish, crabs, and colourful shells. Great for kids (or adults who still love rock pooling).

🚤 3. Explore around the boat ramp

The boat ramp is a fun spot to watch the action — boats coming and going, fishing, or just exploring the rock edges nearby. There’s always something happening, especially in summer.

🎣 4. Try some beach fishing

Whether you're an early riser or more of a sunset fisher, Kūaotunu Beach is a great spot to cast a line. You might hook kahawai or snapper — or just enjoy the peace and quiet with your toes in the sand. Keep an eye out for others fishing off the beach or near the rocks at either end.

🌉 5. Jump off one of 2 bridges!

If you're up for it, join the locals and jump off the bridge near the Kūaotunu Campground or the village end. Best done at high tide and a classic holiday activity - summer for sure and winter if you're really brave

🏄‍♀️ 6. Surf - or paddleboard if it's flat...

On a good day, there’s a legendary but elusive surf break near the Black Jack rocks. If the waves are quiet, a paddleboard is perfect for cruising the coastline and taking in the view from the water.

7. Hunt for treasures at the Black Jack rocks

When the tide is low, my favourite activity is to walk along the beach to the rocky point at the Black Jack end. You might spot pieces of jasper, quartz and maybe even amethyst tucked in the cracks and tidepools. After a big storm, you'll see seaweed and other ocean debris pushed right up to the shore. If you look really carefully you may find some large chunks of kauri gum! It looks just like a rock but it's super light-weight and smells kinda resiny - a proper kiwi treasure!

🍦 8. Grab an ice cream from the general store

The Kūaotunu General Store is a classic stop — they’ve got all the essentials, and they don’t muck around when it comes to proper scoops of ice cream. A must after the beach - try the Kūaotunu Killer for a challenge!!

9. Visit the playground and sports area

Just across the road from the beach is a great little playground, plus a tennis court, basketball hoop, and a big grassy field — ideal for a kickaround or a run-around with the kids. It’s an easy way to burn off some energy (or that ice cream).

🍕 10. Eat at Luke’s Kitchen

Woodfired pizza, cold drinks, and a view of the sea. Luke’s Kitchen is a Kūaotunu institution, whether you’re after a chill lunch or an easy dinner to wrap up the day. People from all over the mandel come to Luke's for a feed but the lucky people of Kūaotunu get to wander in from their bach - what a treat!

Did I miss something???

Lemme know if I missed something!

 

hello@ourhappyplace.co.nz

CHECK US OUT

Take a look at the K-town gear we have here!

 

And take the beach home with you - without the mess of sand!

Your cart is empty
Search

Select Currency

{CC} - {CN}
Cancel