Beaches

The Kāpiti Coast coastline is approximately 40 kilometres long. As well as being the location for significant urban development, our beautiful beaches are an important community asset with many unique characteristics and natural qualities.

Sunset on the beach, looking through bunnytails on the dunes

Looking after our beaches

Find out how you can help keep Kāpiti's beaches beautiful, for now and for future generations.

Two children playing on the beach; one sitting in a dug-out pool, the other jumping into it.

Swimming at the beach

Our beaches are generally very safe for swimming, but it's good to check the surf patrols and recreational water quality before heading out

Two boats being launched at the beach, with Pukerua Bay in the background

Vehicles on the beach

Vehicles are not permitted on most beaches in Kāpiti. There are some exemptions, so check the rules.

Dog and person walking on the beach at sunset

Dogs on the beach

Dogs love the beach as much as we do, and Kāpiti has some fantastic off-leash areas where dogs can run and play freely. It’s important you know where your dog can be, and when – this can change from winter to summer, so check the seasonal rules.

Two horses being ridden on the beach, with sea and island in the background

Horses on the beach

Horses are permitted on all Kāpiti beaches, with restrictions on beach urban areas during summer.

Four children sitting on driftwood, beside a beach campfire, with the island in the background

Fires on the beach

There's nothing like a campfire at the beach – enjoying time with friends and whānau, baking potatoes and cooking pipi. If you want to light a fire on the beach, you must check with Fire and Emergency New Zealand whether you need a permit.

Boating

Making the most of our beautiful coastline involves getting out on the water for many of us.

Lower Waikanae River estuary, with the strait and Kāpiti Island in the background

Whitebaiting

Whitebaiting is a much-loved activity on the Kāpiti Coast, and we need to ensure we respect our natural environment and manage access to whitebaiting spots.

Kāpiti beaches

As well as being the location for significant urban development, our beautiful beaches are an important community asset with many unique characteristics and natural qualities.