Overview
Raglan is a small beachside town located 48 km west of Hamilton, New Zealand on State Highway 23. It is known for its surfing, and volcanic black sand beaches.
Description
West of Hamilton, Raglan is both a surfing mecca and a dramatically scenic area of black sand coastline. Many people believe that Manu Bay on this coast has the longest, most accessible and consistent left-hand break in the world. If you have the required level of skill, it's possible to catch a wave and cruise for up to two kilometres. Manu Bay (also known as The Point) was featured in the 1966 cult surfing movie Endless Summer.
If you're not a hard-core surfer, Ocean Beach is a fine place for a swim, a body boarding session or even a surf lesson with the Raglan Surf School(opens in new window). Lifeguards patrol the western end of the beach during the summer months - it's safest to swim between the flags.