Ohau Beach

Ohau Beach is a wild, windswept stretch of black sand on the West Coast, a place where the Tasman Sea thunders onto a dramatic shoreline backed by dense native bush. It's the kind of raw, untamed landscape that defines this region — perfect for a solitary walk, a picnic with a view, or watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and purple. The beach is easily accessible just off State Highway 6, making it a convenient stop between Franz Josef and Fox Glacier towns.

Highlights & What to See

• Black Sand Beach: Feel the fine, dark sand underfoot and listen to the roar of the waves — it's a sensory experience unlike any other.
• Coastal Walk: Stroll along the shoreline and keep an eye out for driftwood, sea birds, and maybe even seals resting on the rocks.
• Sunset Views: The beach faces west, offering unobstructed views of the sun sinking into the Tasman Sea.
• Lake Ohau: Nearby, this serene lake is perfect for a quiet picnic or a short bush walk.
• Franz Josef Glacier: Just a 15-minute drive away, you can combine a beach visit with a glacier hike or heli-tour.
• Okarito Lagoon: A 20-minute drive north leads to this pristine wetland, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching.

Suggested Time to Spend

Ohau Beach is a quick stop — allow 30 minutes to an hour for a leisurely walk and photos. If you're combining it with a meal or sunset viewing, budget up to two hours. It's best visited as part of a larger day exploring the Franz Josef area, so you can easily fit it in between glacier activities and heading south to Fox Glacier.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Franz Josef Glacier: The main attraction, with guided walks and helicopter tours onto the ice.
• Fox Glacier: Another stunning glacier, a 30-minute drive south, with its own valley walks and viewpoints.
• Okarito: A charming coastal village with a lagoon, great for kayaking and spotting white herons.
• Lake Matheson: Famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, near Fox Glacier.
• Gillespies Beach: A remote black-sand beach further south, known for seal colonies and gold mining history.
• Westland Tai Poutini National Park: The entire area is part of this national park, offering numerous hiking trails and pristine wilderness.

Please check official sources for current details.