Fodor's Expert Review Fitzroy Beach

A reasonably exposed yet popular and easily accessible beach, Fitzroy is just 1½ km (1 mile) from the center of New Plymouth. You can even walk or ride there via the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway. Changeable surf makes it a bit wild, so be sure to swim between the patrol flags. There's interesting rock-pool exploring here and at other beaches along this coast, courtesy of the black sand and rocky outcrops. Expect crowds on hot summer days, when pohutukawa trees provide shade in some spots. Amenities: lifeguards (summer only); parking (free); toilets. Best for: surfing; swimming; walking.