White Rock Beach on the southeast Wairarapa coast is surprisingly sheltered and perfect for exploring. It is an ideal picnic spot on the coast, while the Rock was great fun for climbing up. There is a clear path up to the peak starting on the southwest side of the rock, with a wonderful view of the coast from the top. However, there are some steep drops, and the rock can be slippery, so we advise caution.
The beach takes over an hour from Martinborough to reach on remote White Rock Road. Once you can see the ocean from the road, follow it right towards the obvious white rock emerging from the sand. You can park on the grass next to the black sand beach off Ngapotiki Road and explore on foot.
As with much of the Wairarapa coast, the sea here is pretty wild and isolated, so swimming is not advised. However, if you make it to the end of the road, you are likely to have the wide beach all to yourself! There is also a popular surfing spot at Dolphin Bay, a 10-15-minute walk from the main beach.
