Waipū Coastal Walkway: Northland’s Scenic Hidden Gem

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Waipū Coastal Walkway is the perfect way to experience Northland’s rugged, undeveloped coastline, with sweeping views out to the sea.

This stretch of land stretches between two gorgeous white-sand beaches, Langs Beach and The Cove (also known as Waipu Cove). Although both beaches can have their busier moments, you’ll be alone for most of this walk, taking in the view. This hike is ideal for those looking to avoid the crowds.

It is home to a unique rock formation found only in one other place in New Zealand, pancake rocks.

Quick Hike Overview

Distance: ~2.5 km one-way

Duration: 1–2 hours (one-way)

Difficulty: Moderate (rocky sections, some elevation)

Start/End: Waipū Cove to Langs Beach or vice versa

Highlights: Ocean views, unique rock formations, and birdlife

Facilities: Toilets at Waipū Cove and Langs Beach

Best Time to Hike: Dry weather, autumn/spring for milder heat and reduced sun exposure

Getting There

Waipū is approximately 1.5 hours north of Auckland, depending on traffic. The motorway is slowly being extended, reducing the travel time, but Auckland’s traffic will impact your travel time depending on where you’re leaving from and the time of day.

To reach the trailhead, take the first turn off to Waipū at The Braigh. This is well sign-posted. Head through the village, but stop to get snacks or a coffee from one of the many restaurants.

If coming from the north, Waipū is about a 30-minute drive south of Whangarei. Take the first exit at Nova Scotia Drive. When you reach the crossroads, turn left onto Cove Road.

My preferred option for the hike is to park at Waipū Cove. From here, you can either walk the trail as an out-and-back or walk along the roadside to the Langs entry point.

If parking at the Langs Beach end, note that the entry point is well before you reach the beach; it’s here.

Trail Description

Section 1: Waipū Cove to Lang’s Beach Entrance (Waterman Drive)

Personally, I don’t like an out-and-back hike. Additionally, I enjoy taking a look at all the houses along this road. So my preferred option is to part at The Cove and walk along the road towards Lang’s Beach and enter the trail there.

I don’t do this walk in the middle of summer as it would be quite hot (and busy), so the road is also quieter.

The first piece of the road doesn’t have an isolated walkway, but it does have space to walk off the road. The one-way bridge does not have a footbridge. Cars will most likely wait for you to cross, but make sure you’re checking your surroundings before crossing.

This part of the walk is primarily uphill, which is why I also enjoy putting it at the start of the walk.

Not long after you reach the highest point, you’ll get sweeping views over the bay towards Whangarei Heads. Keep heading down towards Langs Beach and look for the trail entrance across the road.

*The view of Whangārei Heads from Cove Road*

Section 2: Forested Waipū Coastal Walkway

The start of the walk takes you away from the road and under a canopy of trees. It’s immediately peaceful and feels like you’re stepping into a prehistoric jungle.

Quickly, you’ll come upon a fork: to the right is Ding Bay, a small private beach. We want to head to the left, towards Waipū Cove. You’ll also see signage of pest plants to look out for. Volunteers maintain the track, so if you’re able to help support their work, you can find out more here.

All along the trail, you’ll see fences marked No Access. These are private properties, many of which have given part of their land to this walkway. Be polite and don’t enter private property.

Being under the trees, this part of the track can sometimes be wet and muddy. There are a few steps throughout the whole track, and the wooden frames of these can be slippery. We managed just fine in sneakers, but my Mum was pleased to have a stick with her to provide additional balance. There are also a few large pohutakawa trunks that you need to climb over or under. Watch your head!

You’ll get plenty of chances to see beyond the trees and enjoy the panoramic views behind you to Bream Tail, out to the Hen and Chickens (Taranga and Marotiri Islands) and towards Whangarei Heads.

You’ll also be able to see the unique Pancake Rocks, found only in two places in New Zealand (here and Punakaiki). They’re stunning, and the way they create jumbles looks like a giant has been playing with the rocks.

Section 3: Open Farmland Waipū Coastal Walkway

The second half of the walkway is more open and has significantly less shade. This allows for excellent views, and several seats are provided, enabling you to stop and take in the scenery. You’ll notice the rock formation change too, with the end of the pancake rocks.

The walkway descends to the shore in several places before rising back up to the clifftops, so be prepared for a little up and down. There is a piece where you can walk along the coastline at low tide, but I’ve never been there at the right time, so I haven’t done this piece.

There is one tricky piece where you climb through some rocks. Not too challenging but more technical than the rest of the walk.

*This is the trickiest part of the trail*

You’ll begin to be able to see Waipū Cove Beach stretching out in the distance and perhaps surfers waiting behind the waves. This lets you know you’re nearing the end.

The final part of the trail takes you to Shelly Beach. I’m not sure if this is the official name, but it’s what we always called it when we were growing up. This is an excellent spot for a swim!

You can also walk up to the top of the hill (look for the pohutakawa) to get a better look at Waipū Cove Beach.

The final part of the walkway is up over the hill and then across the creek. You’ll get wet feet here, but it’s the end of the trail, so you can head back to your car barefoot (or take another swim at Waipū Cove).

Alternative Routes

Park at Waipū Cove and walk this trail as an out-and-back.
Park near Waterman Drive and do an out-and-back from there.
Park near Waterman Drive and do a loop with either the road first or the trail.
Park near Langs Beach, walk to the Waterman Drive entrance of the trail and create your loop.

Highlights

Scenic road start: I like to begin with the uphill walk from Waipū Cove to Langs Beach—quiet, great views, and a good warm-up. Just take care crossing the one-way bridge.
Peaceful forest section: The trail quickly dips into shady bush, with a real sense of calm. Watch for muddy spots, steps, and low-hanging pohutukawa branches.
Pancake Rocks & coastal views: You’ll spot the layered limestone Pancake Rocks—unique to here and Punakaiki—along with stunning views to Bream Tail and the Hen and Chickens Islands.
Open farmland & ocean breezes: The second half is more exposed, with rolling clifftop paths and places to sit and soak in the sea views.
A few tricky bits: One short rocky scramble adds a small challenge, and the final creek crossing means wet feet, but you’re nearly at Waipū Cove by then.
Perfect swim finish: The trail ends at Shelly Beach, a great spot for a dip before heading back to the car.

Tips for Walkers

Wear grippy shoes. Parts of the track are uneven and rocky.
Bring water and snacks. There is a small shop at Waipū Cove but no water is available on the trail.
No dogs (due to nesting birds).

When to Go

This trail is ideal in the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) when there is less traffic on the road and you can avoid the hottest part of summer.
Head out in the early morning for golden light and cooler temps.
Be cautious after heavy rain, as the trail will be slippery and debris may block the path.

Where to Eat Nearby

At Waipū Cove, you’ll find The Cove Cafe (great for coffee) and the Waipu General Store (great for fish and chips). There are no permanent shops at Langs Beach, but the fantastic food truck Zippy’s does stop by for real fruit ice cream and coffee during the summer.

In Waipū township, you’ll find McLeod’s Brewery and Pizza Barn. They’re world famous in this part of the country and worth stopping in to test their locally made beer.

Map of Waipū Coastal Walkway

FAQs

Is the Waipū Coastal Walkway a loop?
Technically, no. You can walk it as an out-and-back or walk along the road to turn it into a loop track.

Is it safe at high tide?
Yes. There is one section of track that has high and low tide options so the trail is always walkable no matter the tide.

Can you swim along the way?
Yes. Shelly Beach, Waipū Cove and Langs Beach are all great for a post-hike swim.

Final Thoughts

The Waipū Coastal Walkway is a fantastic way to experience Northland’s raw and rugged coastline, without the crowds. Linking two stunning beaches, the trail takes you through peaceful bush, across open farmland, and past the unique Pancake Rocks found only here and in Punakaiki. Whether you start from Waipū Cove or Langs Beach, it’s a moderate walk with big rewards: sweeping sea views, birdlife, and the chance to cool off with a swim at the end.

If you’re after a coastal hike that’s scenic, uncrowded, and full of variety, this one’s well worth the detour.