Wainamu Beach is a black sand beach located on the southern side of Whaingaroa (Raglan) Harbour, just west of the town of Raglan. It is positioned within the harbour's mouth and is shielded from the open Tasman Sea by the Raglan Bar, which creates a generally gentle and tranquil environment compared to the ocean-facing beaches nearby. The primary access point for paddlers is via Riria Kereopa Memorial Drive. From Raglan, drive south on Wainui Road for approximately four kilometres, then turn onto this road. A roadside parking area with a toilet block provides the most direct beach access, with steps leading down to the sand. For better access to the ocean-facing section, continue another 300 metres along the road to a larger parking area. The carry distance from the parking areas to the water's edge is short. The beach's location inside the harbour mouth means it is exposed to harbour winds rather than direct ocean swells, but paddlers should be mindful of conditions created by the tidal flow at the harbour entrance. A key safety consideration is the tide; at high tide, full pedestrian access along the beach to neighbouring Ngarunui (Ocean) Beach is not available, which could affect coastal paddle routes. The beach is peaceful and relaxing, popular for walking and dog walking, and is rarely crowded. It is not considered a swimming beach. From the water, paddlers have views of the iconic Mount Karioi. A notable historical feature on the beach is a partly buried concrete pillbox gun emplacement built during the Second World War. The beach serves as a launch point for exploring the calmer harbour waters or for a coastal paddle. One recommended route is a walkable and likely paddleable connection west to the harbour mouth's edge and the northern end of the expansive Ngarunui Beach, allowing a transition from sheltered to more exposed conditions. The wider area is a versatile outdoor destination where activities like surfing, mountain biking, and horse riding also occur, so paddlers should be aware of shared multi-use beach access.