Rapahoe: Beach, coastal forest and Point Elizabeth

The Great Coast Road between Westport and Greymouth also runs through Rapahoe. Together, these features offer different points of reference when choosing a destination.

Beach and forest in Rapahoe

Rapahoe Beach is more than 2 km long and is bounded by Point Elizabeth headland. The headland gives this stretch of coastline a clear endpoint. In Rapahoe Scenic Reserve, extensive mixed coastal forest stretches from the limestone range to the cliff edge. The beach and reserve therefore provide two distinct landscape features: the coast and the forest that reaches the cliff edge.

Point Elizabeth: forest track and views

The Point Elizabeth Walkway passes through varied forest to a panoramic viewing platform on a cliff. From an exposed rocky lookout, the track offers views towards Mt Cook. The Point Elizabeth Walkway is considered suitable for families and children. Check the weather and track conditions before setting out.

Mountain biking on the Point Elizabeth Track is subject to a specific time restriction: from 1 April to 30 September, it is permitted only during darkness. If you plan to go mountain biking, both the date and the hours of darkness matter within this period. Check the rule locally before your trip.

Getting there and the Great Coast Road

The northern endpoint of the Point Elizabeth Walkway can be reached from Greymouth via State Highway 6 to Rapahoe. The Great Coast Road between Westport and Greymouth also runs through Rapahoe. The entire drive between Westport and Greymouth takes about 90 minutes at the usual speed limits; stops, weather and road conditions affect the journey time.

More perspectives in the wider Grey District

The wider Grey District offers other options with a different character. In Greymouth, you can walk along the Greymouth Flood Wall beside Mawhera Quay and see the river and commercial area, the fishing port and the tidal estuary. The Lake Brunner Scenic Trail runs along the lake’s northwestern shore and is open to walkers and cyclists; check local conditions before setting out. In Moana, you can launch a motorboat, yacht or sightseeing charter from the boat ramp onto Lake Brunner. Alongside Rapahoe’s coastal and forest features, these offer distinct regional interests: a town walk, a shore trail and boat trips. To choose a regional trail, the West Coast Wilderness Trail can be compared with the Lake Brunner Scenic Trail: the former is 132 km long, runs from Greymouth to Ross and is rated easy; the latter runs along the lake’s northwestern shore.

Discover more destinations: Atarau, Runanga, Moana

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