Bluecliffs Beach is the long sweep of sand and stones below the lodge, at the western end of Te Waewae Bay. Rarakau Lodge has its own private track down to it — reserved for lodge guests — so the beach is only about a 7-minute walk from your door.
Once you’re on the sand there’s no set route: the beach runs for about 9 km in all, so wander along under the cliffs for as long as you like, then climb back up to the lodge. Keep an eye on the surf — Hector’s dolphins are regulars in Te Waewae Bay.
Route Sections
Distances are from a GPS recording of the track; times are approximate. Time on the beach itself is up to you.
Highlights
- Kilometres of sand and stones, often with no one else on it
- A private track to the beach, just for lodge guests
- Hector’s dolphins playing in the surf, if you’re lucky
- Cliffs, a waterfall and, in winter, snow on the hills behind
Photo Gallery
Before You Go
Check the tide before you set out — there’s far more beach to walk on around low tide. Ask us at the lodge and we’ll help you time it.
The track drops about 50 m to the beach, so it’s a short climb on the way home. There’s no shelter on the beach: take a wind-proof layer, sunscreen and water.
Getting There
The track starts at the lodge and is for Rarakau Lodge guests only — ask us to point you to the start when you check in.