Monro Beach is a beautiful and quiet spot on the West Coast, reached by a walk through lush rainforest from the car park on Haast Highway near Lake Moeraki. The track is easy to follow and takes around 45 minutes each way, ending at a wide beach with dark sand and big waves. It looks peaceful but be ready for sandflies because there are a lot of them here. Bring strong repellent or you will not want to stay long.

This beach is also known as a place where Fiordland crested penguins sometimes come ashore during breeding season, usually from July to December. It is a special experience to see them but you must keep a safe distance, stay quiet, and never walk between a penguin and the sea. These birds are very shy and easily stressed. If you are patient, it is best to watch from the higher part of the beach and let them move naturally. Plan about two hours for the whole visit, including the walk, and try to come near sunrise or sunset for the best chance to see wildlife.