It lies opposite the mouth of the Waimea River, 7 kilometres (4.3 mi) to the west of Richmond.

It was formed about 7000 years ago as several barrier islands accumulated near the mouth of the Waimea River.

The original vegetation comprised tussock, manuka scrub and totara forest further inland.

A medium-sized causeway spans a tidal area and joins the mainland to Rabbit Island.

The beach proper contains vast and mountainous sand dunes topped with masses of cone-bearing pines, with exposed roots, extending for long distances along the island.