Coast Access Radio was founded in 1996 by a small band of volunteers, eager to see a community radio station broadcasting to the Kapiti and Horowhenua area.

Broadcasts started during Christmas of 1997, on 1512khz (AM band), from a studio in the Museum on Elizabeth Street.

This site proved inadequate and the next stage saw a move to the Community Centre in Aputa House, and the frequency of 96.7FM, leased off Radio Rhema.

Around 2004, the station was granted a Crown reserve Frequency of 104.9FM. This was later adjusted to 104.7FM in 2012.

2014 saw a shift to new, purpose built premises in Mahara Place.