Great Walks - Abel Tasman Coast Track
Explore the beautiful beaches and remarkable rock formations that mark the eastern boundary of the Abel Tasman National Park.
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51kms - 3 to 5 days
From beach to beach
This idyllic track links a myriad of crescent-shaped coves of glittering golden sand, washed by the crystal-clear waters of Tasman Bay. You’ll wander along beaches that constantly invite you in for a swim; hike through scented forest and around headlands with commanding views of the coast; and feel the delicious squelch of mud between your toes as you wade across tidal flats. Kayaking with orca, Abel Tasman National Park Kayaking with orca, Abel Tasman National Park
There are several Department of Conservation accommodation huts, and three privately operated Lodges on the coastal track, however many walkers choose to camp. Some of the tent sites promise beachfront views, so you can wake up to a spectacular sunrise and the sound of waves lapping at your doorstep. The campsite at Onetahuti Beach is one of the best; with the added attractions of glow worm caves and a fresh water pool.
Rock star scenery
Abel Tasman Coast Track Abel Tasman Coast Track
It’s a wild, wild life
If you’re walking the track during summer or autumn, be sure to bring your snorkel and mask. You’ll be able to see how marine plants and animals change as the water gets deeper. Around the granite outcrops the sea is exceptionally clear.
Seal encounter, Abel Tasman National Park Seal encounter, Abel Tasman National Park
Other sea-dwelling creatures can often be seen from the beaches. Little blue penguins feed at sea during the day and return to burrows on the park’s islands at night. Common dolphins are often seen playing in the waves or escorting water taxis along the coast.
When you’re hiking forested sections of the track, bellbirds, fantails, kereru (wood pigeons) and tui will keep you company. Tui and bellbirds provide a beautiful soundtrack, wood pigeons crash around the branches gorging themselves on berries and fantails flit around the path, catching tiny insects that are disturbed by the passing walkers.
There are times when you have to remove your shoes and join the wading birds. Crossing shallow estuaries and mudflats is part of this fabulously back-to-nature adventure.
The track by ocean
The Abel Tasman Coastal Track can also be conquered by sea kayak. You can hire kayaks and guide yourself around the coast, staying at beach campsites; or make it more social and join a guided kayak expedition. Kayakers often have close encounters with fur seals, dolphins and penguins. It’s even possible you’ll see whales!
Create a circuit
Abel Tasman Coast Track Abel Tasman Coast Track
Booking a walk with a tour provider
There are a number of specialist tour operators who can aid you in bringing your walking experience to life. Whether you are looking for a guided tour or accommodation along the track browse through our business listings to find the walking experience that is right for you.
Booking a walk independently
If you want to walk a Great Walk independently you will need a Great Walks Pass The fees for this varies between each Great Walk, but all prices are very reasonable as they are heavily subsidised in order to foster participation by many people.
For some Great Walks you may need to make a booking, for others simply purchase a Great Walks hut or campsite pass before your trip
- For the Milford, Kepler, Routeburn, Heaphy and Abel Tasman the online system allows you to check availability and pay for your booking. Book online
- Department of Conservation (DOC) Visitor Centres national wide can make hut or campsite bookings on your behalf. A booking fee applies.
- Call on +64-3-249 8514, fax +64-3-249 8515, email greatwalksbooking@doc.govt.nz
More information
- Information from DOC including features, track description and places to stay: Abel Tasman Coast Track
- Information from DOC about the 9 Great Walks
- Read about safety tips for walking and hiking in New Zealand's great outdoors