Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
You'll know you've found Makarika when you smell the sulfur—faint but unmistakable, carried on wind that bends the coastal grasses. The beach stretches dark and wide, its grey sand interrupted by boulders the sea has tumbled smooth. At the northern end, where the unnamed stream drains hot springs from the ranges above, steam wisps from the sand like breath on cold mornings, even in summer. Dig down six inches near the waterline and you'll hit water hot enough to brew tea, while ten feet away the Pacific runs cold enough to numb your toes. Locals have excavated shallow pools in the intertidal zone, their edges rimmed with mineral deposits in rust and white. You can sit waist-deep in these makeshift spas, watching waves crash twenty meters offshore while sulfurous heat soaks into your muscles. The settlement of Te Puia Springs sits inland, known more for its freshwater thermal pools than this coastal outlet. Few visitors make the side trip to the beach; those who do tend to be East Coast families who've been coming for generations, or fishermen launching small boats when conditions allow. The beach offers no facilities, no cellphone coverage, no safety nets—just the odd juxtaposition of volcanic heat and ocean cold, meeting in a landscape that feels provisional, as though the earth hasn't quite decided what to do with this edge.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Makarika Beach.
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Makarika Beach can be suitable for families during calm conditions, but as a remote, unpatrolled beach, caution is essential. Swimming safety depends on weather, surf, and tides, which can vary considerably on the exposed East Coast. Parents should closely supervise children at all times and stay in shallow water. The beach's family-friendly tag suggests it's generally accessible, but always assess conditions personally before entering the water. Avoid swimming after storms or heavy rainfall, and never swim alone. The remote location means emergency services are distant, so prioritize safety and conservative decision-making.
Visit Makarika Beach during summer (December-February) for the best weather and warmest temperatures, which coincides with the budget travel season as this area remains far off the main tourist trail. Autumn (March-May) also offers pleasant conditions with even fewer visitors. The beach's scenic beauty is remarkable year-round, though winter can be cool and wet. Given its remote location, plan visits during stable weather windows. Weekdays are quieter than weekends, though you'll likely encounter very few people regardless. Early morning provides excellent photography light and the calmest conditions.
Makarika Beach is accessed via State Highway 35 (Pacific Coast Highway) near Te Puia Springs, a remote settlement on New Zealand's East Cape. From Gisborne, travel north on SH35 for approximately 100-120km—the journey takes 1.5-2 hours. From the north (Opotiki direction), it's roughly similar distance. Watch for turnoffs or local signage near Te Puia Springs; the final access may involve gravel roads. A reliable vehicle with sufficient fuel is essential, as services are extremely limited. GPS can be unreliable in this area, so carry maps and ask locals for directions.
Makarika Beach has minimal to no facilities due to its remote location. Te Puia Springs is a very small settlement with extremely limited services—possibly a marae (Māori meeting ground) and basic supplies, but no significant commercial accommodation or restaurants. Visitors typically need to be fully self-sufficient, bringing all food, water, and camping equipment if staying overnight. The nearest towns with proper accommodation are Tokomaru Bay or Tolaga Bay (south) or Tikitiki (north), though options remain basic. Most travellers visit as a day trip while exploring the East Cape circuit, prepared with all necessary supplies.
Makarika Beach is frequently overlooked because it's located in one of New Zealand's most remote regions, far from major tourist routes and population centres. The East Cape area receives relatively few international visitors compared to destinations like the Bay of Islands or Queenstown. The beach has low profile in tourism marketing and digital mapping, making it genuinely hidden. Its distance from services and challenging access deters casual visitors, appealing instead to adventurous travellers seeking authentic, uncrowded experiences. This remoteness preserves the beach's pristine character and offers those who make the journey a rewarding sense of discovery.
