Archway Islands
The Archway Islands are the premier drawcard at Wharariki Beach, especially at sunset. The fastest way there is over the Wharariki Beach Track. But if you are in too much of a rush, you may not notice that the two islands have 3 large arches. To see them all clearly, continue walking southwest down the beach.
From most angles, you can only see one of the three arches. Although two are on the beach-facing side of the larger island, there is only a narrow-angle where you can see both. Look away for 30 seconds while you walk by, and you will miss it. The third arch is on the smaller island; you can only see this further down the beach.
The islands also look completely different, depending on where you are. From the west end, you will probably think it is one island with one big arch! You will miss the other two arches if you don’t walk towards the east end of the beach.
