New Zealand's Golden Bay

There are so many incredible spots to explore, here are a few of our favorites.

Totaranui Bay is a pristine golden sand beach, It is also the only beach accessible by car in the Abel Tasman National Park. Our favorite spot is the tidal inlet at the northern end. It’s a fun and safe place for kids to swim, skim board and collect crabs.

Split Apple Rock Beach gets its name from the mysterious massive split boulder resting in the bay. The beautiful beach can be accessed by a 15-minute walk through native bush. There are also caves on the north end that are fun to explore.

The Riwaka Resurgence track is like walking through a magical forest. At the end of the trail you’ll find an underwater cave with crystal clear water bubbling up into a pool. You can take a swim if you can brave the cold water!

We felt like we were on the set of Indiana Jones when we explored the Labyrinth Rocks Park. Here you’ll find a natural rock maze that winds through karst limestone walls. Entry is free and maps are available to assist as you make your way through the maze.

Te Waikoropupū Springs are the largest cold water springs found in the Southern Hemisphere. Due to the natural filtering process before the water emerges into the spring, it is considered to be the second most optically pure water in the entire world! There is a walking trail around the springs and a pump at the end where you can taste the water.

Wharariki Beach is a beautiful white sand beach with rolling dunes and sea caves to explore. To access the beach you’ll take a 30-minute trail through working Puponga farmland, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. If you visit between December-April you’ll see baby seal pups swimming in the tide pools.

My kids especially loved playing on the sand dunes. We packed a lunch and spent the entire day playing and exploring at Wharariki Beach.

Takaka Hill is the filming location for Chetwood Forest on Lord of the Rings. It is also the only road to access Golden Bay. The scenic mountain pass is beautiful but filled with hairpin turns, so be aware if you are prone to carsickness. The Ngarua Caves and Harwood’s Hole are also notable stops along the way.

There really is so much beauty in Golden Bay just waiting to be discovered!