Waikanae (New Zealand)

Waikanae is a coastal town that stretches along State Highway 1, between Paraparaumu and Otaki, although the town limits are vague and they seem to blend into one. To get to the beach you'll need to turn off the main highway and head down one of its side roads.

Waikanae Beach is 46 kilometers long. This beach is amazing; it was the only place that I visited when in town, but what a dream. An immense stretch of sand that disappears into the distance and from where you can see remarkable sunsets. A word of advice...remember where you park your car, as you may have a hard time finding it when you return from a walk along the beach. This place is ideal for any beach activity - swimming, surfing, running along the sands, walking the dog...

Close by is Kapiti Island, perfect for a nature ramble, and one of only a few protected bird reserves, where you can even spot kiwis in their natural habitat.