Discover Otara Bay
Otara Bay, located just north of Sailors Grave / Te Karo Bay, is a picturesque yet lesser-known beach on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. Its secluded charm and natural beauty make it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a peaceful beach experience, well away from the crowds.
The bay is accessible via the Otara Track from the Sailors Grave Memorial or by navigating the rocks at the base of the point between the two beaches. While the rock-hopping route is more time-consuming, it offers a unique perspective of the coastline.
Natural Beauty and Features
Otara Bay shares the distinctive sand and rock colours found at Sailors Grave, creating a striking visual contrast against the blue waters. A small, photogenic island and rock formations add to the bay's scenic appeal. However, swimming here can be challenging due to hidden rocks in the sand around the surf break.
A rejuvenating native forest, including kauri trees, borders the beach. Although there was once a 3 km track leading from the beach to State Highway 25, passing by two ancient kauri trees, it has been closed to prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease.
Getting to Otara Bay
To reach the Otara Track from Tairua, take State Highway 25 north over Pumpkin Hill, looking out for Sailors Grave Road on the right - it's easy to miss the turnoff. Then, follow Sailors Grave Road to the car park at the end. The drive is 10 minutes and 6.3 km.
Walk from the car park to the memorial, crossing the stream, where you will find the trailhead for the Otara Track to Otara Bay. The walk takes 25 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for the slower route by clambering around the rocks at the base of the point, about 40 minutes and only accessible as the tide retreats.
Other nearby places to explore include Paku and Ocean Beach in Tairua, Hikuai, Broken Hills and the Tairua River.
