A Family Day Exploring The Abel Tasman National Park in New Zealand
The Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s easy to see why. The park is home to golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush native bush. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from swimming and kayaking to hiking and camping. There’s something for everyone in the Abel Tasman National Park. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous escape or a relaxing beach holiday, you’ll find it here. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to the Abel Tasman National Park!
New Zealand is home to some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the world, and the Abel Tasman National Park is no exception. This coastal paradise is popular for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and lush bushland. Located just a short drive from Nelson on the South Island, the Abel Tasman National Park is the perfect place to spend a day with the family. Here are some tips for making the most of your time in this beautiful spot.
Getting to the Abel Tasman National Park
The Abel Tasman National Park is located just a short 1 hour drive from Nelson – about 5.5 hours if you’re coming from Christchurch. The scenic route hugs the coast and winds through some pretty small towns, so it’s worth taking your time and enjoying the drive. Once you arrive at the park, there are plenty of car parks to choose from. And if you’re feeling energetic, you can even hop on a water taxi in Kaiteriteri and sail into one of the sheltered coves along the coastline.
What to Bring
Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, swimsuits, and towels – you’ll definitely want to take a dip in those azure waters! And if you’re planning on doing any hiking, don’t forget your sturdy shoes and water bottles. It’s also a good idea to pack some snacks for energy along the way. stop at one of the cafes in Marahau for an ice cream or coffee before heading back out into the sun.
And it goes without saying that you shouldn’t leave your camera behind. You’ll find so many amazing photo opportunities, you won’t believe it!
Exploring The Coastline of Abel Tasman National Park
One of the best ways to explore the Abel Tasman National Park is by foot—there are plenty of well-marked trails that wind through stunning coastal scenery. Or if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even hire a kayak and paddle your way around some of the sheltered coves. No matter how you choose to explore, you’re guaranteed to have an incredible time surrounded by natural beauty.
There are also plenty of boat trips going up the coastline. If you are traveling with young kids, this is your best bet for exploring the national park as you can bring a stroller and the boat trip is great for napping. Most boat trips start at Stephens Bay Road and last roughly 6 hours.
Most boat trips will include a stop at Split Apple Rock – one of the landmarks of this national park – and there will also be options to leave the boat at some of the beaches and get picked up later so you can explore some of the pretty bays and beaches on your own. The boats will also go close to some of the rocks where wild seals enjoy the sunshine.
Final Words
The Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful places – and it’s perfect for a family day trip! With stunning beaches, azure waters, and plenty of hiking trails, there’s something for everyone in this little slice of paradise. So what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen and hat and head on down to explore!
