From Westport, we were traveling to Karamea and saw a signpost to Gentle Annie Beach, about 40 km north of Westport. Like many gravel roads we pass on our journeys, we thought, “What’s down there?” So, as usual, we went to see.

At the end of the approximately 3km gravel road, we were surprised to find a beautiful beach and river mouth with a camping ground, and a cafe! What a great spot!!

It was a reasonably short visit, we didn’t stay the night as we had based ourselves in Westport and were on a day trip to Kohaihai (see post) and the Oparara Basin Arches. We will definitely be going back there on our next trip to the West Coast. The cafe was a welcome stop for morning tea, and we had a good look around the camping ground and beach.

The Mokihinui river mouth

The Mokihinui river mouth

The Cowshed cafe is a hidden gem nestled at the end of a gravel road, surrounded by rolling hills, lush greenery, and a beautiful coastline. Its camping ground offers an abundance of space for caravans, campervans, and tents, providing ample room to set up camp and unwind. The website showcases an array of accommodations to suit every taste. For the kids, there is a great playground and maze. The gardens are beautiful and well-maintained. All the amenities are situated close to the beach and river mouth.

An interesting sculpture on the top of the cafe

There are unusual shower and laundry blocks, clean and well-maintained, a BBQ area, and a cozy fire pit.

The beautiful Gentle Annie beach.

How to get there:

Travel 44.4 km north of Westport, cross the Mokihinui River bridge, and turn left into De Malmanches Rd, for approximately 3 km.