Last year we stopped in Waihi and made the short drive to Waihi Beach for the afternoon. We found the perfect spot to set up our beach chairs, read our books, watch the sea, and listen to the crashing surf. We fell in love with that beach. I said it was my favourite beach in New Zealand (a very high bar) and we decided for this trip to stay right in the small town of Waihi Beach. High on my list of “must do” things was returning to that exact spot on the beach.

When I went out to get our flat white coffees this morning, I was a little concerned that it would be too cool to sit on the beach. I know that our friends in Canada are rolling their eyes right now at my suggestion that it is “too cool” and I’m sure I hear the sound of tiny violins playing in the distance. Fortunately, by the time we finished lunch from the local bakery, it had warmed up and we headed to the beach on schedule. This is the view from the spot we were headed for.

I knew there was a lovely hiking trail that started right by the spot we sat last year, so we decided to hike the trail, then come back and relax and read on the beach. But we encountered one tiny problem. The best laid plans… Last year when we were here, the tide was out. This year it was in, and to get to the start of the trail, we had to do this…

But we’re tough. We didn’t let a little bit of warm ocean water discourage us. After wading through the surf, drying our feet, and putting on our shoes, the trail was right there.

Starting from the beach, the trail went up. I mean, where else would it go? On one side was a steep hill, on the other, a sheer drop off to the ocean. Fortunately the path was mostly in the shade, with a cool breeze. It was perfect.

There were stunning views at regular intervals along the trail.

There were even a few opportunities for pictures that look very dangerous … but really are perfectly safe. Like this one.

I’ve been talking about how lovely this beach is. Here is the view looking back to Waihi Beach, to give you an idea.

This morning it was cool (I know, I know…) and overcast, but by this afternoon on the hike it had warmed considerably, and we were treated to beautiful blue skies.

We were feeling rather adventurous today, so we even decided to take a selfie. I suck at selfies, but the ocean in the background helps.

And just in case the selfie was a disaster, we took pictures of each of us to prove we were here. First up, Jan, looking relaxed and gorgeous as always.

And here is a picture of me, with that look I get when I see another view that would make a perfect picture for the blog.

Then it was back to the beach to read and cool down.

It was late afternoon, so the kids were out of school and playing in the ocean.

There was a stiff breeze, so before long, we found it too cool in the shade, so it was time for our daily barefoot walk along the beach.

Then it was back to the hotel for a quick shower to wash off the salt and sweat before refreshments on the balcony. Our hotel is a great spot with a half dozen restaurants within a two minute walk. We opted for a take away kebab salad tonight. Yummy.