Located in Abel Tasman National Park, Anchorage Bay is one of the most popular beaches to visit, perfect to visit as a day trip, or part of a longer expedition in the national park. With golden sands, crystal clear waters, it’s an incredible spot to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or enjoy short walks to Te Pukatea Bay and Torrent Bay.

Abel Tasman is an absolute must-do because it is a slice of tropical paradise. Get to the national park from Marahau, the gateway to the Abel Tasman. At Marahau, there are a wide selection of tour options - from water taxis, guided kayak tours, or walk the Abel Tasman Great Walk over 4 days. There are options for every size group and every fitness level. You may want to venture as far as Awaroa Bay with a water taxi tour, or spend several nights camping in the park and exploring the different tidal lagoons, beaches and islands. Try your lucky spotting dolphins, seals or even orca, as well as many native birds in the bush.

Getting there: Anchorage Bay is located 12km from the nearest town, Marahau. Get here by walking along the Abel Tasman coastal track (4 hours one way), catching a water taxi from Marahau, hiring kayaks - or a combination of these options. The visitor centre in Marahau will give you a selection of options.

Remember: You must take all your own food and drink into the park as there are no cafes or other facilities. Use toilet facilities at the main beaches, including Anchorage Bay and carry out all your rubbish. 

Personal tip: Our first visit to Abel Tasman National Park was on a 4-day unguided kayak tour. We stayed at remote beachfront campsites, spent 2-4 hours paddling each day and explored the islands, rivers and lagoons throughout the park. This is such a beautiful way to experience the park. If you are not an experienced kayaker, there are guided options available from 1 day to 5 days.

We have also done the Abel Tasman Great Walk trail over 3 nights from Marahau to Awaroa Bay. You must book in advance, and there are both hut and camping options. As a day-visitor, you can walk sections of this track. It is regarded as one of the easiest Great Walks, but can be hot during the summer months and there are steep sections of track, so a moderate level of fitness is advised.

Pronunciation: Marahau - maa-raa-ho

Awaroa - aah-waa-roe-aah

Te Pukatea - tae poo-kaa-tae-aah

For more info, listen to Episode 026 of the Aotearoa Adventures podcast.