Okarito Beach is a raw Tasman Sea beach rather than a swimming beach: driftwood, dark sand, weather, and surf that usually looks stronger than it looks inviting. It is best for walking, watching cloud move along the coast, and understanding how exposed this little settlement is.
At low tide you can wander a long way with very few people in sight. Treat the sea with respect, especially after storms; the West Coast does not do gentle edges.