Parking is abundant and free, with quick access to the beach and the campsite just down the road from the site is reasonably priced, though booking is essential.
There are three parts to the beach; a large, grassy bank, which is out of the way and tends to be fairly empty, making it a good place to set up; the main beach, large and crowded, but a good launch point for the boards and the rock faces, which vary in accessibility depending on tides and are great starting point for snorkeling, but not so much for launching on a paddleboard.
The water between Goat Island and the mainland is sheltered from the wind and so remains fairly flat, making it a good place to paddle, as the waters are crystal clear. The beach area is far more exposed, making the water choppy and even hints at a small surf. It is still the best place to launch from, though as you've got less chance of being knocked towards the rocks and once you get past the break, it's dead flat.
It's a really easy place to paddle and seems safe, with no strong currents to drag you away. Unlike other paddling locations, the best views are actually below you, making it somewhat better to perhaps sit on the board to watch the fish for a while. However, if you're intent on paddling around the vast landscapes will not disappoint and you'll still see you fair share of fish while on the move.
Paddling right around Goat Island is a feasible task, which offers plenty of places to land and explore, though the majority of the island is sheer or part of the University of Auckland research laboratory.
Snorkeling/diving is simply a must at the reserve. It is rare to see such a range of fish so close to the shore, especially fish that do not seem to be affected by human presence. Combining the two is certainly possible, perhaps paddling out and around Goat Island before landing your board and going for a swim, or even as I saw some people doing, keeping a board with them and holding on to it as they looked underwater. This would be a good option for those not confident with ocean swimming.
Either way it doesn't really matter, but to really appreciate the wonders of the reserve, you've got to get right into the thick of it.
When paddling, it is really important to look out for the snorkelers. It's easy to get distracted while watching the fish, so many people don't stop to look at where they are going or if there are any hazards around. You've got to be their eyes and keep out of their way, which can be difficult when you are surrounded by them.
The other hazard is the glass bottom boat. This goes for paddling and snorkeling. It is very large and doesn't seem to stop for anything, so it's absolutely integral to keep out of it's way and warn anyone who may be getting a little close to the outboard motors.
Finally, make sure to only paddle around high tide. This is when the majority of the rocks are under enough water to paddle over without getting caught or stranded, but also when the water is flattest.
From what I saw of the changing water throughout the day, low wind or off shore winds with little to no swell would be optimal conditions for this beach. These tend to be the flattest conditions, making it more desireable due to increased visibility.
I'm not sure why it is called Goat Island, but as a part of the Cape Rodney-Okakari Point Reserve, it is a truly spectacular place to visit, especially in the summer.
Whether you are more interested in landscapes or sealife, it's easy to spend a day or two exploring the reserve, which stretches on for 500 hectares, so there is plenty to see and do.
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