Mangawahai Beach is a beautiful spot that's perfect for water-sports, sunbathing or hiking. There are plenty of trails offering perfect viewpoints or longer, more challenging, treks across the clifftops. I did the Mangawhai Clifftops route which is about 3.5km one way. You can carry on another 2km and down about 200 steps and then walk back along the beach - if the tide is low.
Park near the Surf Life Saving Club in Mangawhai on Wintle Street and head down to the beach. Walk to the left for about 1km and you'll see the sign for the beginning of the walk.
Climb up to the top of the cliffs going through farm land, bush land and the edge of the coastal cliffs. Don't forget to look behind as you pass some beautiful views.
Continue past where the walk initially ends and you'll descend the 200 steps. Enjoy the walk back along the coast but do keep an eye on the changing tide. And watch out for crabs... I was enjoying a sit down when one got a little too close for comfort and I soon leapt up and into a rock pool. That's a sure way to get a wet sock!!
Enjoy your walk!