Discover Otara Track
Located on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, north of Tairua, the Otara Track is a brief hike in regenerating forest that connects the north end of Sailors Grave to the attractive and secluded Otara Bay. On the return, you can come back the same way or walk around the rocky point between the bays at low tide.
Recovering Native Forest
The track starts across the stream from the car park and north of the grave site, which gives Sailors' Grave its name. It is well-marked, making it easy to locate. This area was heavily logged for kauri in the 1800s, and is now a recovering native forest with a scattering of exotic trees and shrubs.
Although not immediately apparent, this area includes kauri trees, and there is a boot-cleaning station at the track's entrance to prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease. If recent rainfall has been sufficient, you may also encounter a small waterfall near the track's end as you approach Otara Bay.
The beach is attractive with colourful sand and is shrouded by forest. Swimming is safe, but there are rocks below the surf line that are hard to spot, which is a bit off-putting.
The 20-minute track has a modest 60-metre ascent, made easier by several short series of steps, with panoramic views of both bays from its highest point.
How to get there
From Tairua, take State Highway 25 north for about 4 km, over Pumpkin Hill. Sailors Grave Road is on the right and easy to miss, so slow down as you come down from the top of the hill. Drive to the end of the access road, with parking for Sailors' Grave / Te karo Bay.
Nearby, you can also explore Ocean Beach in Tairua, walk to the top of Paku and visit Pauanui.
