“Relaxation” is the word that springs to mind as we approach Pearl Bay. This bay is privately accessed by foot via the walking track on Otakawhe Bay. Pearl Bay is located in Orapiu at the far end of Waiheke Island.
Pearl Bay sits in Te Matuku Marine Reserve. No fishing or shellfish gathering is allowed here. But there are plenty of options for relaxation and water sports.
This lovely coastal walk will lead us around the most remote settlement on Waiheke. That settlement is Orapiu. We will discover stunning views and quiet bays. If we are lucky, we might see dolphins or orca in the sea.
Our walk starts at the car park at Orapiu Wharf. You can pick up a ferry to Coromandel or Rotoroa Island from here.
This wharf is a popular fishing spot. It is a great place to take in the unusual views across to Poinui and the Tamaki Strait.
When done at the wharf, we’ll head left onto Hunterville Road towards Otakawhe Bay. We will continue along a nice seaside gravel road and track. Keep going along the bay. Then pick up the small track that leads you further along the coast, past Otakawhe Lodge.
From here, we go up and over the spur. We will wind our way down to lovely Pearl Bay.
Pearl Bay is made of shells and sand. There are many beach houses around it. This bay screams relaxation.
To get to Pearl Bay, you need to go via Nepean Avenue. This is entered via the upperside of Anzac Road. Turn right and follow the scenic and windy no-exit road. This road will link on to Nepean Ave.
Pearl Bay can only be accessed via the walking track located on Otakawhe Bay. Only residents can use driveway access.
There are some parking spots at the end of Nepean Road but it’s very limited. Please keep in mind the driveways of residents. The closest toilet is at Orapiu wharf on the lowerside of Anzac Road.
There is a track being developed that will allow you to continue on from here to Te Matuku Bay. But for now, this is as far as you can go.
Head back the same way you came. The walk back is easy on coastal tracks.
There are beautiful views east to Ponui Island and the Coromandel on this lovely coastal walk. Wonderful Pohutakawa trees dot the coast. Remember that only the handful of residents can access Pearl Bay by boat or by foot.
If you need beach items during your stay on Waiheke, there is a local hire shop called Gear Grab. They have a range of beach items. These include sea scooters, metal detectors, beach speakers, sea biscuits, beach tents and games. Prices start at $5 for the smaller toys.
Nearby is Otakawhe Bay. It is a gorgeous bay located on Nepean Ave in Orapiu. Many bays in Orapiu are accessed only via private driveways. This one can be easily accessed by the public.