Gillespies Beach

Gillespies Beach is a wild, windswept stretch of black sand on the West Coast, where the Tasman Sea crashes against driftwood-strewn shores and the Southern Alps loom in the distance. This remote beach offers a raw, elemental experience far from the crowds, with a rich history of gold mining and Māori settlement.

Highlights & What to See

• Black sand beach – Walk the vast expanse of dark sand, watching for seals and the occasional penguin.
• Gillespies Beach Track – A short walk leads to the historic miners' cemetery and remnants of the gold-mining era.
• Okarito Lagoon – Nearby, this pristine lagoon is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to white herons (kotuku).
• Franz Josef Glacier – A 20-minute drive inland takes you to the gateway of one of New Zealand's most famous glaciers.
• Ship Creek – A scenic stop with a boardwalk through dune forest and a dramatic beach viewpoint.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is enough to soak in the beach's atmosphere, explore the short walking tracks, and visit the nearby Okarito Lagoon. If you're keen on a longer hike, the Gillespies Beach to Okarito coastal walk takes about 4–5 hours one way. Combine with a glacier visit for a full day on the West Coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Franz Josef Glacier – Guided walks and heli-hikes on the famous ice.
• Okarito – A sleepy village with kayaking on the lagoon and a coastal lookout.
• Fox Glacier – Less crowded than Franz Josef, with its own stunning terminal face.
• Lake Matheson – Mirror-like reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook, just a short drive away.
• Whataroa – A tiny town with white heron sanctuary tours (seasonal).

Please check official sources for current details.