Location: Bethells Beach / Te Henga, West Auckland

Distance to Lake~2 km each way (30 mins)

Full Loop~6–7 km (2–2.5 hrs)

Difficulty: Easy–Moderate

Highlights: Black-sand dunes, Lake Wainamu, waterfall, stream walk

Facilities: Limited parking, no toilets near the lake

Best time to visit: Late afternoon or early morning

Carpark to Lake Wainamu (via stream or dunes): Approximately 2 km each way – about 30 minutes one way. Many visitors wade through the cool Waitī Stream, while others take the dune route for panoramic views.

Lake Wainamu Loop Track: Roughly 6.3 to 7 km long, taking 2 to 2.5 hours at an easy to moderate pace.

Extended variations: Some walking apps record distances of 7.6–10.5 km, depending on whether side trips or dune climbs are included.

“Easy walk around the lake with a waterfall at the far end.” – Visitor review (AllTrails)

Few walks near Auckland offer such a dramatic contrast of terrain. From the carpark, you can follow the shallow Waitī Stream – a sparkling path through soft volcanic sand – or take the direct dune climb that opens to breathtaking views of the wild west coast. Once over the dunes, Lake Wainamu reveals itself like a secret oasis, surrounded by native bush and overlooked by steep slopes of shimmering black sand.

A short detour around the far side of the lake leads to a small waterfall, perfect for a refreshing swim or photo stop. The dunes themselves are popular for sandboarding and photography, especially in late afternoon light when the landscape glows golden against the dark sand.

“The walk to Lake Wainamu takes you along some amazing volcanic sand dunes.”

– Local hiker review

AllTrails: Average rating 4.4/5, with reviewers praising its variety and swim opportunities.

TripAdvisor: “Stunning dune scape and great swimming on a hot day.”

TripAdvisor: “Be prepared for blustery winds and very hot sand in summer.”

Visitors consistently highlight the contrast between the black dunes and the clear lake, calling it one of Auckland’s most unique outdoor spots.