Bethells Lake is my favourite spot out in the West Coast beaches. A must-see for tourists and Auckland locals alike, the Lake is a great alternative to the rough surf at Piha and Bethells beach, but be warned it’s a bit of a mission to get there! Located about 40 minutes outside of central Auckland, not including traffic, the drive can be a bit tedious, and once you arrive there is a good walk to the lake itself that will take a similar amount of time. So if you’re going to go, make sure you leave early as — trust me — you don’t want to be doing this walk in the middle of a summer’s day, it’s just too hot — especially if you take the route that goes over the sand dunes. Though much faster, the sand gets so hot you can literally burn the bottom of your feet — so be careful! There is another route to the lake that involves following a wee stream around the bottom of the dunes, and while this takes longer it’s a really nice walk and the view of the dunes is quite amazing. Plus, you can wade in the water this way so that’s always a bonus! Once at the lake, the long trip in will all seem worthwhile. It’s a lovely place to spend the day picnicking, swimming and tanning with your friends and family. The water is fresh water so unlike swimming in the sea you don’t feel all sticky and dirty, but it’s a pretty funny situation — you’re at the beach but you’re not swimming in the sea. I think it’s worth checking out Bethell’s just for that! Tip: There’s no shade, so make sure you stock up on the sunblock and/or take a big umbrella to set up. The sun out at Bethell’s can be harsh!
Sheer W.
Place rating: 5 Auckland, New Zealand
Get ready for a walk. Wainamu Lake, or Bethells Lake as I’ve always known it, is this special little private lake everyone should visit at least once. The walk itself isn’t hard, but it will take you a decent hour and when it’s hot and the sun is out, you’ll feel like you are walking in the desert. But as soon as you see that beautiful lake in sight, it becomes worth it. Bethells Lake is surrounded by bush and it’s a deep, dark, fresh water lake that is a great alternative to the salty beach. It’s become pretty popular over the years so you’ll be hard pressed to get it to yourself, but when you do, it’s so special. My friends and I came here once and decided to swim across right to the buoy and back, and while two of did fine, my other friend found it a bit difficult! Take heaps of water for the trek because you will get hot. Love it.
