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What's on today's to-do-list?
'Something For Everyone, Everyday'

Discover the Charm of Golden Bay, New Zealand's Hidden Gem! Bask in the sunshine of our Mediterranean-style climate, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking scenery. Our little slice of paradise offers a relaxed, friendly lifestyle and endless adventures for nature enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and those seeking serenity. Explore our vast playground, teeming with opportunities for: - Birdwatching - Fishing - Kayaking - Rock climbing - Horseback riding - Tramping - Mountain biking And many more!
Our guests often wish they had more time to experience it all, so we recommend staying for 3+ days to soak up the beauty and charm of Golden Bay. Visit the vibrant township of Takaka, with its eclectic cafes, art shops, and alternative lifestylers. Our community is warm and welcoming, making you feel right at home. For insider tips and recommendations, your hosts are always happy to share their favorite spots. Come and unwind in our little slice of heaven - book your stay today!

Top 10, but there's heaps more!

  1. WHARARIKI BEACH
    Wharariki Beach
    Wharariki Beach in Golden Bay is a stunning destination known for its raw, untamed beauty and breathtaking views. Located near Cape Farewell, the northernmost point of New Zealand's South Island, the beach features iconic Archway Islands, limestone formations, and tidal caves. Visitors can spot seals playing in the shallows and enjoy scenic walks through rolling farmland and sand dunes. The beach is accessible via a 20-minute walk from the car park. It's essential to plan your visit around low tide for the best experiences, especially for seal pup viewing and photography.

  2. NGARUA CAVES
    Ngarua Caves is a must-visit attraction near Golden Bay, featuring stunning limestone caves with stalactites and stalagmites. Located in the Takaka Hill range, about 30 minutes from Motueka, the caves offer guided tours every hour, lasting around 45 minutes. You'll explore ancient marble formations, Moa bones, and experience true darkness when the lights are turned off. The caves are family-friendly, but be prepared for a steep ladder exit and chilly temperatures (11°C).

  3. WAIKOROPUPU SPRINGS
    Te Waikoropupu Springs in Golden Bay is a breathtaking natural wonder and sacred Māori site. Located near Takaka, these springs boast crystal-clear water with visibility of up to 76 meters, filtered through rocks over 10 years. The springs are the largest freshwater source in New Zealand and largest cold-water springs in the Southern Hemisphere, discharging 14,000 liters per second. A short, easy 1km loop walkway showcases the springs and native bush.

  4. WAINUI FALLS
    Wainui Falls in Golden Bay is a breathtaking 20-meter waterfall surrounded by lush native bush and granite boulders. The falls are located within Abel Tasman National Park, and the track is easily accessible, making it perfect for families. The 3.8km return walk takes around 1-2 hours to complete and features stunning views of the forest, river, and granite boulders. Refresh yourself in the plunge pool or nearby swimming holes.Cross a thrilling swing bridge with spectacular views.

  5. FAREWELL SPIT
    Farewell Spit in Golden Bay is a 25km-long sand spit, the longest in New Zealand, stretching eastwards from Cape Farewell. This protected Nature Reserve is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including over 90 species of migratory birds, and is a critical habitat for bar-tailed godwits and red knots. The area features dynamic coastal landscapes, barchan dunes, and tidal mudflats. Visitors can explore the historic lighthouse, Fossil Point, and the Australasian gannet colony, but access beyond 4km requires guided tours to preserve the delicate ecosystem.

  6. ANATOKI SALMON
    Anatoki Salmon in Golden Bay offers a unique experience where you catch your own salmon and enjoy it on-site. The farm is open daily from 9 am to 4:30 pm. Allow some time to visit and handfeed the tame eels, with some of them  believed to be close to 100 years old.

  7. KAYAKING
    Golden Bay offers stunning kayaking experiences, particularly in the Abel Tasman National Park. You can explore the coastline, islands, and beaches while spotting wildlife like seals, stingrays, and native birds. Golden Bay Kayaks provides guided tours, kayak rentals, and multi-day adventures. Their experienced guides share knowledge on local history, flora, and fauna.

  8. THE GROVE
    The Grove Scenic Reserve in Golden Bay is a hidden gem featuring a 1km loop track that takes around 30 minutes to complete. This easy walk showcases stunning limestone rocks, mossy boulders, and ancient northern rata trees. Highlights include a narrow slot canyon with enormous roots and massive rocks, Panoramic View offering breathtaking views of Golden Bay and surrounding farmland, Abundant birdlife and native New Zealand bush. Free entry, easy walk suitable for all, with a car park and picnic area nearby. The Grove is perfect for nature lovers and photographers.


  9. ROCK CLIMBING
    Paynes Ford is a popular spot for sport climbing with single-pitch routes on limestone, suitable for various skill levels. It features steep jug-pulling roof climbs to sloping rails, with sport bolts for safety.


  10. TRAMPING / ABEL TASMAN COASTAL TRACK
    The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a 60km, easy-to-moderate tramping track in Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand. The track spans from Mārahau to Wainui Bay, taking around 3-5 days to complete. Highlights include Scenic Views,Golden sand beaches, lush coastal native bush, and tidal estuaries, Fur seals, weka, bell birds, oyster catchers, and tui. Notable Spots: Cleopatra's Pool, Tonga Island Marine Reserve, and Separation Point lighthouse. Accommodation: Department of Conservation huts and campsites along the route. Water taxis and boat operators provide transportation to various points along the track Be sure to plan ahead, check tide times, and book accommodations in advance