Shag Point

Shag Point is a ruggedly beautiful headland on the Otago coast, where the wild Pacific surf crashes against ancient greywacke cliffs. This remote spot is a haven for wildlife, most famously a colony of New Zealand fur seals that haul out on the rocky platforms below the point. The main attraction is the short coastal walk that takes you right above the seal colony, offering close-up views of these playful creatures lounging and tumbling in the rock pools. The sense of isolation and the raw power of the ocean make Shag Point a memorable stop for anyone driving the coastal route between Oamaru and Dunedin.

Highlights & What to See

• New Zealand Fur Seal Colony – Watch seals at close range from the designated viewing platform; best at low tide when they are most active.
• Coastal Walk – A short, easy track along the headland offers stunning views of the dramatic coastline and the chance to spot seabirds like shags and oystercatchers.
• Fossil Hunting – The beach below the point is known for fossilised shells and marine life, but take only photos and leave everything in place.
• Shag Point Lighthouse – A historic but decommissioned lighthouse stands on the point, adding a touch of maritime heritage to the landscape.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour here – enough time to walk the track, linger at the seal viewing area, and take in the coastal views. If you’re keen on photography or fossil hunting, allow up to 90 minutes. Shag Point is perfect as a brief roadside stop on a longer journey, or as a leg-stretcher after a few hours behind the wheel.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Moeraki Boulders – Famous spherical boulders scattered on the beach, about 15 minutes south by car.
• Oamaru – Charming Victorian precinct, penguin colonies, and steampunk culture, 30 minutes north.
• Katiki Point – Another excellent seal and seabird colony with a lighthouse walk, just 10 minutes south.
• Dunedin – Vibrant city with wildlife cruises, Baldwin Street, and the Otago Peninsula, 90 minutes south.
• Waitaki Valley – Inland route with limestone formations, vineyards, and the Vanished World Centre, accessible via Oamaru.

Please check official sources for current details.