Waikawau Bay

Waikawau Bay is a remote, scenic surf spot on the Coromandel Peninsula, on New Zealand’s North Island (NI). It sits on the quieter eastern side of Coromandel, known more for its natural beauty and isolation than for heavy crowds or developed surf infrastructure.

Surf character

• Type: Open beach break
• Best for: Intermediate surfers and adventurous beginners on smaller, cleaner days
• Wave quality: Can offer fun, peelable peaks when swell lines up, but is often more exposed to wind and shifting sand conditions
• Swell exposure: Picks up easterly and northeasterly swell well
• Wind: Usually best with westerly or southwest offshore winds, while easterly winds can quickly make it messy

Conditions and consistency

• Works best on medium-sized swell with a decent tide and light offshore wind.
• Because it’s a beach break, sand movement can change the takeoff zones and shape from session to session.
• It’s not the most consistent “must surf” wave on Coromandel, but when conditions align it can be a rewarding, uncrowded session.

Atmosphere

• Quiet, remote, and surrounded by classic Coromandel scenery.
• Much less busy than more famous North Island surf areas, so it has a relaxed, secluded feel.
• Good option if you’re looking for a surf with a bit of solitude and a natural setting.

Things to know

• Access can be somewhat remote, so check road conditions and plan ahead.
• Limited nearby facilities compared with more developed surf towns.
• As with all beach breaks, currents and rips can be present, especially on larger swells.