Overview

Christchurch's top surf beach, is so named because Captain Taylor famously mistook it for Lyttelton Harbor. Accessed via a steep, winding road from Sumner or by the Taylors Mistake Heritage Trail, the beach nestles between precipitous headlands of black volcanic rock. Quaint (some might say ramshackle) nautical cottages cling to the cliffs. Popular with local "waxheads" (surfers) and swimmers, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer. Strong rips make it essential to swim between the lifeguard flags and follow the posted warnings. There is a car park with toilets and changing sheds behind the beach. The Godley Head Walk begins and ends here.