Exploring Tapeka Point Beach
Tapeka Point Beach is a charming sandy beach located just southwest of Tapeka Point, in Russell, in the Bay of Islands. This beach is not only ideal for swimming but also provides a boat ramp and a small grassed reserve.
Activities and Features
The beach is a safe spot for swimming and attracts many visitors. When the tide recedes, you can explore the rocky shoreline to the north, beneath Tapeka Point. This area reveals a series of large pools around a rocky reef, known as Fraser Rock on Topo Map and Housy’s Hole on Google Maps. These features make it an interesting place for those keen on discovering marine life and unique rock formations.
Tapeka Point Track
For those interested in hiking, the Tapeka Point Track is an excellent 20-minute hike. This trail provides superb views over the Bay of Islands from a narrow ridge and a historic clifftop pā site on Tapeka Point. The track is easily accessible from the beach, adding an adventurous element to your visit.
How to get there
To reach Tapeka Point Beach from central Russell, take Flagstaff Road to Tapeka Road. The journey is a quick 5-minute drive or a scenic 40-minute walk via Te Maiki.
Other nearby things to do include exploring Rocky Bay Reserve, Historic Russell, the Russel Museum, and Okiato, the site of New Zealand’s first capital in 1840/41.
