On Auckland's rugged west coast, this is the more interesting of the routes down onto Muriwai Beach. Willsons Road starts off sealed before switching to gravel and then turning into a proper sand track as you near the coast. It's an easy, scenic drive with low difficulty, popular as a quieter way onto the beach with less traffic. The terrain is straightforward, though the entrance near the lake can be a little bumpy.

A permit is required to drive on Muriwai Beach - as of December 2025, it's now a multi-day process to apply and receive the permit - so plan ahead.

Keep your speed down and watch out for other road users, the main thing to be mindful of along this route. And remember your permit.