Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal spots and definitely a must-see for local visitors and international travellers. Anyone who visits Abel Tasman National Park will be mesmerised by the beautiful golden sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, native bush and wildlife within the park. Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand’s smallest national parks, but also one of the most accessible. You can enjoy day walks, short visits to some of the bays, or multi-day tramping and camping trips across the national park. Located at the top of the South Island, the park lies between Golden Bay and Tasman Bay, near Motueka and Kaiteriteri, with the entrance to the park starting in Mārahau. Abel Tasman has so many activities and beautiful scenery to offer that you can tailor your visit to your preferences. From hiking to swimming, kayaking, tramping or relaxing by the beach, there is something for everyone. Read on to find out how to plan the best Abel Tasman trip and what to do in the Abel Tasman.
What to do in Abel Tasman
The Abel Tasman National Park isn’t just for tramping and swimming. There is a range of activities you can do that can cater to your trip and group. The Abel Tasman offers day walks, multi-day tramps, camping, swimming, kayaking and boating activities. The Abel Tasman track links up stunning bays with well-maintained walking trails through the beach forest. Water taxis connect major bays, so you can start and finish walks anywhere along the route. Kayaking through the national park is a great way to see the area from a different perspective and even see seals or dolphins up close. Any way you choose to explore the Abel Tasman is beautiful in its own regard, and an experience that is definitely worth doing.
Abel Tasman Beaches
Abel Tasman beaches rank among the most picturesque and beautiful in New Zealand. Anchorage, Coquille Bay, Totaranui, Torrent Bay, and Bark Bay are some of the best spots that travellers from all over come to enjoy. With calm oceans for swimming and golden sand surrounded by greenery and rocky beach forest, these beaches are like nothing you will see anywhere else. You can choose to go for a day walk to some of the closer bays like Anchorage or Coquille Bay and walk back out, or grab a water taxi back to Kaiteriteri, or even choose to stay the night at one of the huts or campgrounds. For a chance to see more of the beaches and the Abel Tasman track, you can take a multi-day tramp at your own pace and end up at Totaranui to complete the full track or stop at any of the major bays and water taxi out. Most beaches have picnic areas shaded by native trees, perfect for resting between walks. These beaches are also perfect for swimming and sunbathing in the summertime, and are also beautiful to enjoy even in the cooler months. Many of the water taxis return to Kaiteriteri. If you’ve rented a vehicle or are driving in, Kaiteriteri Beach is a great place to park up your rental car whilst you enjoy the park.
Walks in the Abel Tasman
The Abel Tasman Coast Track stretches about sixty kilometres between Mārahau and Wainui Inlet. Sections can be walked in parts, from easy two-hour strolls to full-day and multi-day hikes between the bays. You’ll find well-maintained paths, boardwalks, swing bridges and tidal beach crossings as you walk along the Abel Tasman track. The great part about the Abel Tasman is that you can choose the walk or tramp length that suits you, whilst still being able to fully enjoy and see all the beauty the Abel Tasman has to offer. Some highlights include Cleopatra’s Pool in Torrent River, a natural rock slide formed by polished granite, and the lookout near Bark Bay with fully panoramic coastal views. With so many beaches, stops, huts and campgrounds between Mārahau and Wainui Inlet, you can pick the trail that suits you. The Abel Tasman track is well-suited for families, beginners and experienced trampers with options to suit all levels.
Kayaking & Boating
Kayaking the Abel Tasman coastline gives you a close look at wildlife and secret coves that you can’t reach by foot. You can take guided tours that depart from Mārahau or Kaiteriteri, ranging from half-day trips to multi-day journeys. On these trips, you’ll often see seals nearby and even penguins or dolphins if you are lucky. For those preferring to stay dry, water taxis and cruises provide flexible travel between bays and are also a nice way to see the national park with stunning views from the boats. For those looking for something more private, you can hire out private boats and catamarans for day tours with lunch and drinks provided that stop along multiple bays and park up on beaches, allowing you to swim and explore some of the coves. These are great options for bigger groups or those looking for something extra memorable.
Abel Tasman highlights & hidden gems
While many visitors follow the main Abel Tasman track, several lesser-known spots offer a quieter experience. Cleopatra’s Pool is one highlight that should be added to everyone’s list. Cleopatra’s Pool is a set of natural, clear pools that are fed from the Torrent River. You can reach these via a short side track from Anchorage. Whariwharangi Bay, at the park’s northern end, is another hidden gem to add to the list. This place feels remote and often empty except for curious weka birds. Pitt Head Loop near Anchorage gives stunning coastal views. Inland, the small falls near Falls River Bridge create perfect photo stops. The Abel Tasman is full of beautiful spots and hidden gems, but these are some of our favourites.
Favourite Walks: Abel Tasman Day Hikes & Short Trips
The short walks and day trips across the Abel Tasman are some of the most beautiful walks you can do, and allow you to see the Abel Tasman without committing to the full track. Here are some of our favourites:
- Mārahau to Apple Tree Bay: 5.2km One Way - 1.75 hours - Begin in Mārahau
- Mārahau to Coquille Bay: 3.5km - One Way - 1 hour - Begin in Mārahau
- Mārahau to Anchorage: 12.4km - One Way - 4 - 4.5 hours - Begin in Mārahau
- Pitt Head Loop: Approx 3.4km Return - 1 - 1.15 hours - Begin in Anchorage
- Totaranui to Awaroa: 7km One Way - 2.5 - 3 hours Awaroa to Totaranui - Begin in Totaranui
Each path showcases Abel Tasman’s balance between coast and bush. Bring snacks, water, and enough time to pause at lookout points; these short trips capture the region’s essence without rush or fatigue.
Multi-Day Walks, Camping & Hut Options
Completing the full Abel Tasman Coast Track takes three to five days, depending on pace. The route passes through bays, estuaries, and forests with well-spaced huts and campsites managed by the Department of Conservation. Popular overnight stops include Anchorage, Bark Bay, and Awaroa. Campers should book ahead, especially in summer, as these often book up quickly. Facilities are basic but clean, and campsites sit just metres from the beach. For added comfort, some travellers mix camping with lodge stays in Torrent Bay or Awaroa Lodge. Access to most campsites is by foot or water taxi, making planning essential.
Local Towns to Stay & Explore: Mārahau, Motueka & Kaiteriteri
Each town near Abel Tasman offers a different experience. Mārahau, the park’s gateway, has beachfront cafés, kayak rentals, and campgrounds. It’s the main starting point for walkers and water taxis. Motueka sits twenty minutes away from the Abel Tasman and serves as the region’s main service town with supermarkets, markets, and local art studios. Staying here would suit travellers wanting more dining and accommodation choices. Kaiteriteri, a small coastal town, is famous for its golden beach and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for relaxed evenings after exploring the Abel Tasman. All three towns connect easily by road, allowing visitors to explore at their own rhythm. Renting a car gives travellers the convenience to drive between towns, stop at lookouts, and reach departure points early without time pressure.
How to Reach the Park: Driving Routes & Vehicle Hire
Reaching Abel Tasman National Park is straightforward by car. From Nelson, follow State Highway 60 to Motueka, then continue to Mārahau (about a 20-minute drive from Motueka). The Mārahau entrance to the park is generally more popular as it is easier to get to and easy to walk in and out of the park for day trips or overnight parks. The northern entrance at Wainui Inlet is accessible via Takaka Hill and Golden Bay, roughly three hours from Nelson. Having a rental vehicle allows flexibility to start or finish at different ends of the track. Drivers can also reach Kaiteriteri Beach, where water taxis depart for various bays. Public transport options are limited, so self-driving and rental vehicles remain the most convenient way to explore if you are visiting the area.
Best Time to Visit & What to Expect Each Season
Abel Tasman National Park has one of New Zealand’s sunniest climates. Summer (December–February) brings warm water and long daylight hours, ideal for swimming and camping. Autumn (March–May) offers mild weather and fewer visitors, perfect for peaceful walks and photography. Winter (June–August) is definitely a bit crisper but still stays relatively dry and calm; however, trails are quiet, and wildlife viewing improves. Spring (September–November) adds fresh greenery and wildflowers along the track. Regardless of season, tides influence parts of the coastal route, so checking crossing times is essential. Early morning starts often mean calmer seas for kayaking and better light for photos. Each season offers a different side of the park, from golden summer bays to crisp autumn mornings and calm winter seas. Whatever time of year, Abel Tasman is always beautiful.
Preparing for Your Abel Tasman Trip
Depending on what type of trip you are heading to the Abel Tasman for, whether that is a multi-day adventure or a day stop off, it’s always important to be prepared. Pack light, breathable clothing, a waterproof layer, sun protection, and sturdy footwear. Reusable water bottles, snacks, and insect repellent are essentials as the sandflies can appear all throughout the day. For camping, bring compact gear and a small stove if you are looking to make cooked meals. Mobile coverage drops along the track, so carry a map or download offline routes. Always check tide charts before setting out. When renting a car, choose a vehicle with enough room for outdoor gear. Mode Rentals offers SUVs and compact cars suited for regional travel, each with 24/7 roadside assistance. Parking is available near Mārahau and at most local towns. Leave valuables out of sight and secure the vehicle before walking. Travelling by road gives flexibility to plan around weather, tides, and energy levels, ensuring time in Abel Tasman remains relaxed and memorable. Pick up a rental car from Mode Rentals and set off on your Abel Tasman adventure to see the beauty of this national park for yourself.
Abel Tasman National Park FAQs
How long does it take to walk Abel Tasman?
Walking the full Abel Tasman Coast Track typically takes between three and five days, depending on pace and the number of stops made along the way. The entire route covers about 60 km from Mārahau to Wainui Inlet. Many hikers choose to walk shorter sections, using water taxis to skip parts of the track. Each section offers scenic beaches, forest paths, and viewpoints, so even one or two days provide a memorable experience of Abel Tasman National Park.
Can you drive in Abel Tasman park?
No vehicles are allowed inside Abel Tasman National Park, as it is designed for walking, kayaking, and boating only. Visitors drive to nearby trailheads or towns like Mārahau, Kaiteriteri, or Totaranui before starting their adventure on foot or water.
Is Abel Tasman National Park worth visiting?
Yes, Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand’s most stunning destinations. Its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush native bush are definitely worth visiting. The park suits every traveller, whether hiking short sections of the Abel Tasman track, paddling alongside seals, or relaxing on quiet beaches.
What is the prettiest hike in New Zealand?
Many visitors consider the Abel Tasman Coast Track to be the prettiest track in New Zealand. Its mix of forest, beach, and clear sea views offers beautiful scenery from start to finish. Walking through golden bays like Anchorage, Bark Bay, and Awaroa feels peaceful and is definitely one of the prettiest walks you can do in New Zealand.
Is Abel Tasman free?
Entry to Abel Tasman National Park is completely free, and visitors can explore beaches, lookouts, and day walks at no cost. However, if staying overnight, huts and campsites require advance bookings through the Department of Conservation (DOC) with a nightly fee. Guided kayak tours and water taxis also have separate costs. Having a rental vehicle makes it easy to drive to free-access spots such as Mārahau or Kaiteriteri for short walks and day trips.
