The beach itself is the main reason to be here. It runs for about two kilometres, wide and sandy, with a gentle slope that makes it easy going at low tide. The surf is modest most of the time — enough for a swim, rarely dangerous — though southerly swells can push up unexpectedly in winter.
The western aspect is the beach's best feature. At any time of day you are looking out across the Tasman Sea toward Kapiti Island, which looms larger than you expect for an island six kilometres offshore. Afternoon and evening light here is genuinely spectacular. Bring a blanket and plan to stay through sunset.