Marahau

Marahau is the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, a sleepy coastal settlement where golden sand meets the turquoise Tasman Sea. This is where your New Zealand road trip meets one of the country's Great Walks, and the vibe is pure laid-back beach town. Kayaks line the shore, water taxis buzz in and out, and the smell of fresh seafood drifts from the handful of cafés. It's the perfect launchpad for exploring New Zealand's smallest national park, with its world-famous coastal track and hidden coves.

Highlights & What to See

• Abel Tasman Coast Track: The jewel of the park, a multi-day or day-walk along pristine beaches and lush native forest. Even a short section from Marahau to Anchorage gives you a taste of its beauty.
• Kayaking the Coast: Paddle through crystal-clear waters to golden beaches and seal colonies. Guided trips are the way to go – they know the best spots for spotting stingrays and little blue penguins.
• Marahau Beach: A long, sandy stretch perfect for swimming at high tide and exploring rock pools at low tide. It's also the launching point for water taxis to the park.
• Split Apple Rock: A perfectly split granite boulder just offshore, best seen by kayak or on a scenic boat cruise from Marahau.
• Wainui Falls: A short, family-friendly walk through native bush leads to a stunning 20-metre waterfall – a refreshing dip awaits.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2 to 3 days in Marahau to truly soak in Abel Tasman. This gives you time for a full-day kayak trip or a day-hike on the Coast Track, plus a relaxed afternoon on the beach. If you're short on time, a day trip from Motueka or Nelson is possible, but you'll wish you'd stayed longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kaiteriteri: Just 10 minutes south, with a gorgeous golden-sand beach and a popular launching point for Abel Tasman cruises.
• Motueka: A lively town 20 minutes away, with great cafés, craft breweries, and the famous Motueka Sunday Market.
• Nelson: An hour's drive south – New Zealand's sunniest city, packed with galleries, wineries, and the Nelson Lakes National Park.
• Marlborough Sounds: Head east through the Rai Valley to reach the stunning drowned valleys of the Marlborough Sounds, perfect for kayaking and hiking.

Please check official sources for current details.