Marahau

Marahau is the sandy gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, where golden beaches meet lush coastal forest and the turquoise sea sparkles under the Tasman sun. This laid-back settlement, at the southern end of the Abel Tasman Coast Track, offers a quintessential slice of New Zealand's coastal magic. With its estuary walks, kayak launches, and a handful of friendly cafes, Marahau feels both remote and welcoming — the perfect base for exploring one of the country's most beloved national parks.

Highlights & What to See

• Abel Tasman Coast Track: The first few kilometres of this Great Walk from Marahau offer easy walking through regenerating forest, with stunning views over the park's golden beaches and clear waters.
• Kayaking the Coastline: Paddle among granite outcrops, seal colonies, and hidden coves. Guided trips from Marahau are a brilliant way to experience the park's marine wonders.
• Marahau Beach & Estuary: At low tide, the expansive sand flats and estuary are perfect for a stroll, birdwatching, or simply soaking up the serene coastal atmosphere.
• Kaiteriteri Beach: A short drive north, this iconic golden-sand beach is famous for its striking granite boulders and clear waters — ideal for swimming and boat trips.
• Wainui Falls: A pleasant 40-minute walk through native bush leads to a thundering 20-metre waterfall, one of the park's easiest and most rewarding short hikes.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors base themselves in Marahau for two to three days. Spend your first day kayaking or taking a water taxi to a beach along the Coast Track, then walk back to Marahau. On day two, explore the estuary and nearby Kaiteriteri, or take a longer hike further into the park. If you have a third day, consider a scenic cruise or a trip to Wainui Falls. Marahau is compact, so you can easily pace yourself with a mix of active adventures and lazy beach time.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Abel Tasman National Park: The entire park is your playground — from Torrent Bay to Bark Bay, each cove offers its own slice of paradise.
• Kaiteriteri: Just 15 minutes north, this bustling beach town has more accommodation options and is the main departure point for park cruises.
• Nelson: The sunny city is an hour's drive south, with its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and the World of WearableArt museum.
• Motueka: A lively town en route from Nelson, known for its farmers' market, craft beer, and access to the park's western side.
• Golden Bay & Farewell Spit: A scenic drive over Takaka Hill leads to a wilder coastline, with the sweeping sandspit at Farewell Spit and the artistic hub of Takaka.

Please check official sources for current details.