Golden Bay Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Golden Bay, New Zealand. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide today!


Introduction to Golden Bay

Located in Nelson Bays, South Island, New Zealand, Golden Bay is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled destinations in the country. With its golden sands, turquoise waters, lush forests, and stunning mountains, Golden Bay offers a wide range of attractions and activities for all types of travelers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you plan your trip to Golden Bay by highlighting the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Golden Bay

Golden Bay is home to numerous attractions that showcase the area’s rich history and natural beauty. Here’s a list of must-visit places in Golden Bay:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Golden Bay Museum: This museum features exhibits that tell the story of Golden Bay’s history, from the indigenous Maori people to the European settlers.
  • Farewell Spit: This iconic landmark is a nature reserve and bird sanctuary that provides a unique opportunity to see rare and endangered species up close.
  • Te Waikoropupū Springs: These stunningly clear freshwater springs are of immense cultural significance to Maori people and offer a peaceful place for visitors to explore.

Natural Attractions of Golden Bay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Abel Tasman National Park: This park is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. Hiking, kayaking, and swimming are some of the top activities to do here.
  • Wharariki Beach: This breathtaking beach offers incredible rock formations, sand dunes, and stunning views of the Tasman Sea.
  • Takaka Hill: This scenic drive offers incredible views of Golden Bay, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Golden Bay

Golden Bay is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with trails that cater to all levels of ability. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Golden Bay:

  • Heaphy Track: This multi-day hike is one of the country’s nine “Great Walks” and offers stunning mountain and ocean views.
  • Pupu Hydro Walkway: This easy walk offers stunning views of the Pupu Hydro Power Scheme, an innovative renewable energy project.
  • Rameka Track: This intermediate hike features lush forests, streams, and waterfalls, as well as stunning views of Golden Bay.

Best Things to Do in Golden Bay: Activities and Tours

Golden Bay offers a wealth of activities and tours for all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best things to do in Golden Bay:

  • Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park: Take a guided tour or rent a kayak and explore the stunning coastline of Abel Tasman National Park.
  • Horseback Riding: Take a leisurely horseback ride through the area’s beautiful forests and beaches.
  • Arts and Crafts Trail: Take a self-guided tour and explore the many talented artists and craftspeople who call Golden Bay home.

Week-Long Itinerary for Golden Bay

If you have a full week to explore Golden Bay, consider this itinerary:

Day 1 Visit Golden Bay Museum and Farewell Spit
Day 2 Explore the stunning beaches of Abel Tasman National Park
Day 3 Hike the Heaphy Track
Day 4 Visit Te Waikoropupū Springs and Takaka Hill
Day 5 Take a horseback riding tour
Day 6 Kayak in Abel Tasman National Park
Day 7 Take the Arts and Crafts Trail and visit local wineries

Food and Drink Scene of Golden Bay

Golden Bay is home to some of the freshest and most delicious cuisine in New Zealand. Here’s a guide to the local food and drink scene:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green-lipped Mussels: These mussels are native to New Zealand and are a must-try for seafood lovers.
  • Pavlova: This famous dessert is a light and fluffy meringue topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
  • Crayfish: Golden Bay is famous for its crayfish, which are caught in the waters of the Tasman Sea.

Local Beverages

  • Sauvignon Blanc: Marlborough, located nearby Golden Bay, is famous for producing some of the best Sauvignon Blanc wines in the world.
  • Craft Beer: Golden Bay is home to several microbreweries that produce some of the country’s best craft beers, including the award-winning Mussel Inn.

Where to Stay in Golden Bay: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Golden Bay offers a wide selection of accommodations that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Golden Bay:

  • The Resurgence: This luxury lodge offers incredible views of the surrounding forest and mountains, as well as top-notch amenities and service.
  • YHA Golden Bay: This budget-friendly hostel is located in the heart of Takaka and offers clean and comfortable accommodations for backpackers and budget travelers.
  • Collingwood Park Motel: This family-friendly motel offers spacious and well-appointed rooms, as well as a swimming pool and outdoor BBQ area.

What to Buy in Golden Bay: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Golden Bay is home to many talented artisans and craftspeople, producing unique and high-quality products. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back from Golden Bay:

  • Golden Bay Honey: This award-winning honey is produced locally and is a must-try for anyone who loves natural and organic products.
  • Local Artwork: Golden Bay is home to many talented artists who produce a variety of unique and beautiful artwork, including paintings, ceramics, and jewelry.
  • Macadamia Nuts: Golden Bay is home to several macadamia nut orchards that produce delicious and nutritious nuts.

Local Culture and Customs of Golden Bay

Golden Bay has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, which is reflected in the area’s art, music, and food. Maori culture plays an important role in the local community, and visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect these traditions.

Best Time to Visit Golden Bay

The best time to visit Golden Bay is during the summer months (December-February) when the weather is warm and dry, and the beaches and hiking trails are at their best. However, Golden Bay is a year-round destination, and each season offers its own unique charms and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Golden Bay

Do:

  • Respect the local environment and wildlife
  • Obey all signs and instructions when hiking or kayaking
  • Learn about the local culture and traditions

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash on the beaches or hiking trails
  • Approach or feed wild animals
  • Ignore warning signs or warnings from local authorities

Safety and Health

Safety in Golden Bay

Golden Bay is a safe and peaceful destination, but visitors should take precautions when hiking, swimming, or participating in any outdoor activities. Always obey warning signs and instructions, and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Golden Bay

Golden Bay has a well-developed healthcare system, but visitors should take appropriate measures to ensure their health and safety during their trip. Make sure to bring any necessary medications, and seek medical attention if you experience any health problems.

Getting to Golden Bay: Transportation Options and Logistics

Golden Bay is well-connected to the rest of New Zealand and can be reached by several transportation options:

Airports Near Golden Bay

  • Nelson Airport: This airport is the closest major airport to Golden Bay and is serviced by several airlines, including Air New Zealand and Jetstar.

Bus Stations Near Golden Bay

  • Golden Bay Coachlines: This bus company offers regular services to and from Nelson, Takaka, and other nearby destinations.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Golden Bay, and several rental companies offer services at Nelson Airport.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available in Takaka and other nearby towns, but may be more expensive than other options.

How to Get Around in Golden Bay

The best way to get around Golden Bay is by car, as many of the attractions are spread out and not easily accessible by public transportation. However, there are several tour companies that offer guided tours and transportation services.

Where to Go Next from Golden Bay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Golden Bay is located within easy reach of many other popular destinations in the South Island, including:

  • Nelson: This vibrant city is known for its art, culture, and wine, and is only a short drive from Golden Bay.
  • Marlborough: This famous wine region is home to some of the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc wines and offers stunning scenery and attractions.
  • Kaikoura: This town is famous for its whale watching tours, as well as its stunning coastal scenery and wildlife.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore nature, or immerse yourself in local culture, Golden Bay has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip with ease and make the most of your time in this stunning destination.



    Collingwood
    Onekaka