Anapai Bay Hike: Best Hikes Ever in 2025

Anapai Bay Hike is a beautiful trail in Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand. It is a perfect place for people who love nature, adventure, and peaceful beaches. The hike takes you through green forests, and golden sandy shores, and offers amazing views of the blue ocean. As you walk along the trail, you might even see some native birds and other wildlife.

This hike is not too hard, making it the best for both beginners and experienced hikers. The path is well-marked, and the views are beautiful at every turn.

Whether you want to take pictures, relax by the beach, or just enjoy the fresh air, Anapai Bay Hike is a perfect outdoor adventure. Get ready to explore one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand and make unforgettable memories

Why Choose Anapai Bay Hike?

Choosing Anapai Bay Hike is the best idea if you love nature, quiet beaches, and amazing ocean views. This beautiful trail is inside Abel Tasman National Park, one of the most stunning places in New Zealand.

The hike takes you through lush green forests, soft golden sands, and crystal-clear waters. It is the best way to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

One of the best things about this hike is that it is not too hard. Whether you are a beginner or someone who loves hiking often, you can enjoy this trail without too much trouble. Along the way, you might see different types of birds, playful seals, or other wildlife.

The trail is also peaceful and not as crowded as other popular hiking spots, making it a perfect place to unwind.

Here are some reasons

• Beautiful views – Ocean, forests, and golden beaches.
• Wildlife spotting – Birds, seals, and more.
• Quiet and peaceful – Fewer crowds, more relaxation.
• Easy for most hikers – Not too steep or difficult.
• Best for picnics – Nice spots to rest and enjoy.

Anapai Bay Hike​ Map

Anapai Bay Hike Overview

The Anapai Bay Hike is a beautiful coastal trail in Abel Tasman National Park, offering a mix of forest paths, sandy beaches, and stunning ocean views. It is perfect for hikers who want to explore nature without a very difficult climb. Below is a quick guide to help you plan your hike.

Total Distance and Time

The hike is about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) round trip and takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how many stops you make to enjoy the views.

Trail Difficulty and Best Time

This is an easy-to-moderate hike, making it great for beginners and families. The trail is mostly flat with some gentle slopes, so it does not require advanced hiking skills.

The best time to visit is during the summer months (December to March) when the weather is warm, and the ocean looks extra beautiful. However, spring and autumn are also great times to enjoy the trail with fewer crowds.

Beautiful places and Attractions

• Golden Sand Beaches – Anapai Bay has soft, golden sand, perfect for relaxing or having a picnic.
• Crystal-Clear Waters – The bay’s clear waters make it a great spot for swimming or just enjoying the view.
• Lush Green Forests – Walk through beautiful native forests filled with tall trees and birds singing.
• Wildlife Spotting – You might see native birds, seals, or even dolphins in the water.
• Peaceful and Less Crowded – Unlike some other hikes in Abel Tasman, this trail is quieter and more relaxing.

Best Trail For Anapai Bay Hike

Abel Tasman Coast Track

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is the most famous and popular trail in Abel Tasman National Park. It’s a 60-kilometer (37-mile) hike that takes around 3 to 5 days to complete. The trail goes along golden beaches, through lush green forests, and offers amazing views of the ocean.

Along the way, you’ll cross suspension bridges and explore quiet, beautiful spots. It’s a perfect hike for people who love nature and want to spend a few days outdoors.

You can do the entire Abel Tasman Coast Track in one go or break it up into smaller sections. Many hikers choose to do it over several days, enjoying the beautiful sights at their own pace. This trail is great for people who like adventure and want to see different parts of the park.

Here are some things to know

• Distance: 60 kilometers (37 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate – Suitable for most hikers.
• Time: Takes 3 to 5 days to complete.
• Scenic Views: Golden beaches, lush forests, and cliffs with ocean views.
• Wildlife: Spot native birds, seals, and other animals.
• Suspension Bridges: Cross exciting bridges with amazing views.

Anapai Bay Hike

The Anapai Bay Hike is a beautiful short trail in Abel Tasman National Park. This 7-kilometer (4.3 miles) hike takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete and offers amazing views of golden beaches and the sparkling ocean.

The trail is easy, making it perfect for beginners or those looking for a peaceful walk. You’ll pass through lush forests and enjoy breathtaking views of Anapai Bay. It’s a great spot for a relaxing hike and a picnic by the beach.

Here are some details

• Distance: 7 kilometers (4.3 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy – Perfect for beginners and families.
• Time: Takes 2 to 3 hours to complete.
• Scenic Views: Golden sand beaches and ocean views.
• Wildlife: Spot native birds and enjoy the natural beauty.

Pitt Head Loop Track

The Pitt Head Loop Track is a short, easy trail that offers stunning views over Te Pukatea Bay. It’s only 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) long and takes about 1.5 hours to complete, making it perfect for families or anyone looking for a quick hike.

The loop is easy to walk and gives you beautiful views of the bay and the surrounding landscape. It’s also a great place for a peaceful walk with plenty of opportunities to take pictures and enjoy the scenery.

Here’s what you need to know

• Distance: 4 kilometers (2.5 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy – Great for families and beginners.
• Time: Takes 1.5 hours to complete.
• Scenic Views: Beautiful views of Te Pukatea Bay.
• Quick Hike: Perfect for a short and peaceful walk.

Cleopatra’s Pool Track (2 km, 1 hour)

The Cleopatra’s Pool Track is a short and fun hike that is perfect if you want to enjoy nature and see a natural rock pool. The trail is 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) long and only takes about 1 hour to finish, making it a great choice for families or anyone who wants a quick outdoor adventure.

The best part of this hike is the crystal-clear rock pool at the end, where you can swim and cool off. It’s especially fun during summer when the water is refreshing and perfect for a splash. Along the way, you’ll walk through a peaceful forest and enjoy the beautiful sounds of nature.

Here are some things to know

• Distance: 2 kilometers (1.2 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy – Perfect for families and beginners.
• Time: Takes 1 hour to complete.
• Main Attraction: A natural rock pool with clear water, great for swimming.
• Perfect for Hot Days: The pool is a refreshing spot on warm days.

Falls River Swing Bridge Track

The Falls River Swing Bridge Track is an exciting hike that takes you through a beautiful forest and across a long swing bridge over the Falls River. This trail is 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) long and usually takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete.

It’s an easy to moderate hike, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy some adventure while seeing nature up close. The trail goes through a peaceful forest, and you can hear the sound of the river flowing as you walk.

The highlight of the hike is crossing the swing bridge, which feels thrilling as you look down at the river below.

Here’s what you need to know

• Distance: 6 kilometers (3.7 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate – Good for most hikers.
• Time: Takes 2 to 3 hours to complete.
• Main Attraction: The exciting swing bridge over Falls River.
• Beautiful Views: Beautiful forest and river views along the way.

Best Time for Hiking Anapai Bay

Summer (December to February)

Summer is the most popular time to hike in Abel Tasman because the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor adventures. With daytime temperatures usually between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), it’s ideal for hiking, swimming, and beach picnics.

You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, clear waters, and lush forests in the sunshine. However, since it’s the busiest season, it’s best to plan your hike early in the morning to avoid large crowds.

Why Summer is Great:

• Warm weather is perfect for swimming and relaxing at the beach.
• Longer days with plenty of sunlight for hiking.
• Vibrant wildlife with birds and seals to spot.

Autumn (March to May)

Autumn is a wonderful time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. The temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), making it a pleasant time to hike.

The park’s forests also begin to show beautiful autumn colors, with golden leaves and a peaceful atmosphere. You’ll still have a chance to swim if the weather is warm, but it’s also a great time for hiking without the summer heat.

Why Autumn is Great:

• Mild weather with cooler temperatures for comfortable hiking.
• Fewer tourists, giving you more space to enjoy the trails.
• Beautiful autumn colors in the trees and forests.

Winter (June to August)

Winter in Abel Tasman is quieter, with fewer visitors and the weather is cooler, ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). While it’s not the warmest season, it’s still a good time for hiking if you enjoy the risp air and peaceful surroundings.

Some of the trails may be wetter or more slippery during winter, but if you’re well-prepared with proper gear, it can be a unique experience.

Why Winter is Great:

• Quiet trails with fewer tourists, perfect for a peaceful hike.
• Cooler temperatures can be refreshing, but make sure to dress warmly.
• Chance to see wildlife, including seals, in a calm and quiet setting.

Spring (September to November)

Spring is another excellent time for hiking in Abel Tasman, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 18°C (55°F to 64°F). The weather is warming up, but it’s not too hot, making it a comfortable time to explore the trails. During spring, the park’s flowers start blooming, and the forest is full of fresh greenery.

It’s also the start of the quieter hiking season, so you can enjoy the beauty of the park without the summer crowds.

Why Spring is Great:

• Milder temperatures are perfect for walking comfortably.
• Blooming flowers and fresh greenery add to the beauty of the park.
• Less crowded than in summer, so you can enjoy the trails peacefully.

How to Choose The Best Track For Your Anapai Bay Hike

Choosing the right hiking track can make your adventure more enjoyable and memorable. When picking a trail, there are a few things you should think about to make sure you pick the best one for your skills, preferences, and the experience you want. Here are some tips to help you choose the best hiking track:

1. Consider Your Hiking Experience

If you’re new to hiking, it’s best to start with an easy trail. Look for tracks that are shorter in distance and have a gentle slope. On the other hand, if you’re an experienced hiker, you can choose a more challenging track with longer distances and steeper climbs.

2. Think About the Time You Have

How much time do you have for your hike? If you’re short on time, consider shorter trails that can be completed in a few hours. For a longer adventure, pick a multi-day trek where you can camp and enjoy nature over several days.

3. Check the Trail Difficulty

Not all hiking tracks are the same. Some are easy, and some are harder. Check the difficulty level before you go. Easy trails are perfect for families, beginners, and those just looking for a relaxing walk. Harder trails may be more tiring but offer amazing views and more adventure for experienced hikers.

4. Think About What You Want to See

Different hiking tracks offer different types of scenery. If you want to enjoy beaches and ocean views, look for coastal tracks. If you want to see forests or mountains, choose trails that go through these landscapes. Consider what you enjoy most and choose a trail that offers those views.

5. Consider the Weather

The weather can affect your hike. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you choose a track. Some trails may be harder to complete in bad weather, like heavy rain or strong winds.

6. Plan for Safety and Comfort

Make sure the trail is safe for the conditions you’re going to hike in. Always wear the right clothing, carry enough water, and bring any equipment you might need, like hiking boots, a map, or a first-aid kit.

Here’s a Quick Guide to Help You Choose the Best Track:

• Short Hikes (Under 5 km): Great for beginners, families, or those with limited time.
• Medium Hikes (5-10 km): Good for people with some hiking experience who want a bit of challenge.
• Long Hikes (Over 10 km): Perfect for experienced hikers or those planning a multi-day adventure.
• Coastal Trails: Ideal for beach lovers who want to enjoy ocean views.
• Forest Trails: Best for those who enjoy walking through lush greenery and quiet surroundings.

Essential Tips For Hiking Anapai Bay

Gear and Clothing Recommendations

• Hiking Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes with good grip.
• Clothing: Choose light, breathable clothes and layers.
• Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun.
• Sunscreen: Always apply sunscreen.
• Backpack: Pack essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.

Safety Tips and Weather Considerations

• Check Weather: Avoid hiking in storms or extreme heat.
• Know Your Limits: Turn back if you feel tired.
• Stay on Marked Trails: Stick to the trail to stay safe.
• Emergency Kit: Carry a small first-aid kit.
• Hydrate: Bring enough water, especially on warm days.

Camping and Accommodation

• Anapai Bay Campsite: Basic campsite within Abel Tasman National Park.
• Nearby Lodges: Stay in Marahau or Kaiteriteri for more comfort.
• Backcountry Campsites: Rustic campsites for a more natural experience.

Conclusion: Anapai Bay Hike

Anapai Bay Hike is a wonderful adventure where you can enjoy beautiful views of the ocean, peaceful beaches, and fun wildlife. This trail is the best for all types of hikers, whether you’re just starting or have more hiking experience. As you walk, you’ll get to enjoy the fresh air, listen to the sounds of nature, and see things like seals and birds. It’s a perfect way to spend time outdoors and connect with nature.

For more tips on hiking and other cool places to visit, be sure to check out discovertourplaces.com and plan your next adventure

Frequently Asked Questions