The stony beach has a large car park with a small boat ramp near the mouth of Makara Stream. The 6km Makara Walkway (managed by the Department of Conservation) starts at the beach and follows the coast before a gradual climb to the cliff tops, where there are spectacular views of Mana, Kapiti and the South Island. Further along the cliffs are WW II gun emplacements at Fort Opau. The return walk follows the coast from Opau Bay. A 2-hour coastal walk to Boom Rock can be made after crossing Makara Stream.

The stream estuary is an important native ecosystem and is gradually being restored by the Makaracarpas, a local environmental group. The tiny Makara Foreshore Reserve behind the beach was an area of sand dunes until 1942, when they were bulldozed after fears invading Japanese could hide in them. This destroyed an ecosystem now extremely uncommon in the Wellington region, but rare plants are gradually re-establishing themselves.

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Makara Valley is a beautiful destination not too far from central Wellington. A popular destination for cyclists, and for good reason. Fishing is popular here, and this is a fantastic, safe beach for the whole family to enjoy!

The best thing to do here is go in the evening at low tide, and wander round the point to watch the sun set over the south island. 10/10 entertainment

A really good spot in Wellington, out the back we have Makara beach, a spot that’s equally good for surf casting as well as going a bit further out on a boat. A little further out of the way than the others, but it’s worth it with excellent views, good walks and most importantly good fishing!! Go check it out and have a good time!