Location: Marahau
Top Things to do in Marahau
Countries
Top 9 Tours in Marahau, South Island
Mārahau is a very small settlement in the Tasman Region of the South Island of New Zealand, approximately 19 kilometres (12 mi) north of Motueka. Its location on Tasman Bay and at the southern entrance of Abel Tasman National Park makes it a popular holiday destination for those keen on outdoor activities. People access the Abel Tasman from Mārahau by tramping, kayaking and water taxi. In Mārahau itself, the beach offers sheltered and safe swimming, and horse trekking is popular throughout the busy summer season.
Restaurants in Marahau
1. Lock, Stock & 2 Smoking Paddles
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 10 reviews
This is the original and our most environmentally friendly guided day trip in the park. Start kayaking from Marahau gliding through the tranquil waters of the beautiful Astrolabe Roadstead. Watch for playful NZ Fur Seals and embrace the wonderful birdsong, ringing from the bush-clad Adele Island. Take a short walk or a swim while we stop for lunch and café styled drinks on one of the many glistening golden sand beaches. There are plenty of nooks and crannies to explore along this stunning coastal paradise. If the sea breeze is blowing we’ll hoist the spinnaker and let the wind push us home
Inclusions: Sea Kayak, kayak equipment, can order lunch for an additional charge of $15
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Renato G
We’ve booked a half-day family package with Brad and what an incredible time we’ve had. Not only Brad was very knowledgable about all wildlife and the best spots to go to, but he was also friendly and professional with both kids and adults. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time and will definitely recommend them to our friends and family.
2. Freedom Rental
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Freedom kayaking Abel Tasman gives you the independence to see the wonders of the coastline at your own pace. Kahu Kayaks will equip you with everything you need to have an enjoyable and safe sea kayaking experience, NOTE: for two or more people, Double Kayaks used unless group has uneven number
Inclusions: Sea Kayak. kayaking equipment
Exclusions: Lunch
Reviewed By Renato G
We’ve booked a half-day family package with Brad and what an incredible time we’ve had. Not only Brad was very knowledgable about all wildlife and the best spots to go to, but he was also friendly and professional with both kids and adults. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time and will definitely recommend them to our friends and family.
3. Oarsome Marine Reserve Kayak Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 16 reviews
So much to see in this spectacular one day guided adventure! On a high tide, explore the dreamy depths of Shag Harbour where you can get up close and personal with the resident NZ Fur Seal (kekeno). Kayak to Tonga Island and spot the NZ fur seals basking on the rocks and playing in the waters around you. The heart of the National Park offers many gorgeous tidal lagoons and multiple choices of golden sand beaches for you to relax and enjoy your lunch and freshly brewed coffee. Sail to Anchorage in the afternoon sea breeze and finish your day with a water taxi ride back to Marahau.
Inclusions: Chicken & camembert croissant, cakes, slices, apples, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, herbal tea, juice. Dairy/gluten/vegan/vegetarain available, All kayaking equipment.
Exclusions:
Reviewed By 693serenah
Professional & personal. An all round quality experience. Friendly team who show genuine passion for their work & the Abel Tasman park. Just book & let them take care of you!
4. 1 Day Sea Kayak Rental
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 18 reviews
Kayak from Marahau and enjoy the many beaches along the Astrolabe Roadstead. Visit the islands, watch the seals, listen to the birdsong and kayak back to finish in Marahau. MINIMUM 2 PEOPLE PER BOOKING
Inclusions: All kayaking & safety equipment
Exclusions:
Reviewed By 693serenah
Professional & personal. An all round quality experience. Friendly team who show genuine passion for their work & the Abel Tasman park. Just book & let them take care of you!
5. Soul Food - Kayak
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 22 reviews
Our most eco trip! This trip is our most environmentally friendly on offer. The forest-fringed Astrolabe offers the highest concentration of golden sandy beaches in the Abel Tasman to explore. The highlight of this trip is visiting Adele Island sanctuary, home to an array of protected native birds and a popular hang out for NZ fur seals. A cacophony of bird sound is unique to the Island, as this trip is 100% paddle power you are reducing your carbon footprint. If conditions permit, kayak-sail back into Marahau on the afternoon sea breeze. Simply an amazing day covering all the special elements the Abel Tasman offers.
Inclusions: Dietary requirements catered for.
Exclusions:
Reviewed By AucklandWiz
We opted for a half day freedom (unguided) rental as we just wanted a taste of kayaking this beautiful area and didn't have a huge amount of time. We started our day with a very professional safety briefing which covered all aspects of kayaking, use of equipment, how to get in and out safely, righting the boat if you capsize etc. We were fitted with spray skirts which was great to have- it meant our kayak did not fill up with sea water. We decided to kayak over to Adele Island while the winds were still low and then back to the mail land to explore some bays and then kayak back with the wind. But it was really tough kayaking against the wind and tide and by the time we got to the island it was too rough and we were tired so we saw a couple of seals and decided to get back to the shelter of the astrolabe area. Really a waste of time and energy when the kayaking is tough like this. These bays are beautiful, golden sand, peaceful providing lovely swimming in clear, clean water. We decided to return back early which we had asked what the procedure was during our safety briefing and we were instructed to head for the big black buoy. As the tide had gone right out it was quite hard to spot the buoy but we had a fair idea of what land marks were we had to head for. We then just asked another operator to contact our kayak company. He offered to take the kayaks back to the company on his truck which meant no waiting for us. We had a quick hot shower - clean dry towel supplied, before we continued our road trip. A beautiful area of the country. I have done this once by kayak and probably would not do this again- perhaps a boat drop off and a walk back would be nice, if there is a next time.
6. The Family Cruiser
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 240 reviews
Join our friendly kayak guides as they share their enthusiasm for this stunning stretch of coast. From Marahau head south on a relaxing exploration of nesting cormorants, sea caves and the world famous Split Apple Rock. Ideal for families and those of you who like to take it easy. Returns to Marahau approximately 12pm.
Inclusions: Sea Kayak, life jackets, spray skirts and safety equipment
Exclusions: Lunch, Air-conditioned vehicle
Reviewed By Sam L
My partner and I did the swingers delight trip. The entire experience was incredible. Exceeded our expectations! The walk was amazing with gorgeous views! The best part was the kayak, our guide Brad was awesome! So knowledgeable about the area and wild life. We stopped on adele Island where Brad whipped us up a legendary cappuccino on the beach topped with chocolate sprinkles! Blew our minds. Then we cruised around the bays on our way back to Marahau. Absolutely stunning area. 100% recommend. Ask for Brad.. hes the man!
7. Southern Duo kayak & walk tour
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 6 reviews
Highlights: Adele Island Bird Sanctuary, NZ Fur Seals, Coastal Walk Indulge yourself in the two elements, the water (wai) and the land (whenua), of the beautiful southern section. See a magnitude of lush, golden beaches and find yourself in the slice of paradise you have only ever dreamed about. Visit Adele Island, ringing with a chorus of native birdsong and spot the NZ Fur Seal (kekeno) sun-bathing on the rocks and chasing the wake of your kayak. Spend time taking in the fresh coastal air as you walk through the native surrounds of the National Park. Multiple look out points, echoing birdsong and the many golden sand beaches make this walk one you will never forget.
Inclusions: All kayaking equipment
Exclusions:
Reviewed By 693serenah
Professional & personal. An all round quality experience. Friendly team who show genuine passion for their work & the Abel Tasman park. Just book & let them take care of you!
8. Kayak & Walk
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 118 reviews
Walk: Observation Beach - Marahau or the reverse. Description: Embark on your guided kayak adventure from Marahau to Observation Beach. You will catch glimpses of the coastal track and experience up close the magic of the Astrolabe Islands. Once finished enjoy one of our great lunches before swapping your paddle for your walking shoes. Discover clear streams, native bush and incredible views over Anchorage and the Astrolabe.
Inclusions: Dietary requirements catered for.
Exclusions:
Reviewed By AucklandWiz
We opted for a half day freedom (unguided) rental as we just wanted a taste of kayaking this beautiful area and didn't have a huge amount of time. We started our day with a very professional safety briefing which covered all aspects of kayaking, use of equipment, how to get in and out safely, righting the boat if you capsize etc. We were fitted with spray skirts which was great to have- it meant our kayak did not fill up with sea water. We decided to kayak over to Adele Island while the winds were still low and then back to the mail land to explore some bays and then kayak back with the wind. But it was really tough kayaking against the wind and tide and by the time we got to the island it was too rough and we were tired so we saw a couple of seals and decided to get back to the shelter of the astrolabe area. Really a waste of time and energy when the kayaking is tough like this. These bays are beautiful, golden sand, peaceful providing lovely swimming in clear, clean water. We decided to return back early which we had asked what the procedure was during our safety briefing and we were instructed to head for the big black buoy. As the tide had gone right out it was quite hard to spot the buoy but we had a fair idea of what land marks were we had to head for. We then just asked another operator to contact our kayak company. He offered to take the kayaks back to the company on his truck which meant no waiting for us. We had a quick hot shower - clean dry towel supplied, before we continued our road trip. A beautiful area of the country. I have done this once by kayak and probably would not do this again- perhaps a boat drop off and a walk back would be nice, if there is a next time.
9. Remote Marine Reserve
Overall Ratings
4.6 based on 7 reviews
The park's rocky coastline is a haven for a myriad of marine life and is always a fascinating place to explore. Abel Tasman Kayaks is one of only three operators authorised to undertake marine mammal viewing from sea kayaks at Tonga.
Inclusions: Dietary requirements catered for.
Exclusions:
Reviewed By AucklandWiz
We opted for a half day freedom (unguided) rental as we just wanted a taste of kayaking this beautiful area and didn't have a huge amount of time. We started our day with a very professional safety briefing which covered all aspects of kayaking, use of equipment, how to get in and out safely, righting the boat if you capsize etc. We were fitted with spray skirts which was great to have- it meant our kayak did not fill up with sea water. We decided to kayak over to Adele Island while the winds were still low and then back to the mail land to explore some bays and then kayak back with the wind. But it was really tough kayaking against the wind and tide and by the time we got to the island it was too rough and we were tired so we saw a couple of seals and decided to get back to the shelter of the astrolabe area. Really a waste of time and energy when the kayaking is tough like this. These bays are beautiful, golden sand, peaceful providing lovely swimming in clear, clean water. We decided to return back early which we had asked what the procedure was during our safety briefing and we were instructed to head for the big black buoy. As the tide had gone right out it was quite hard to spot the buoy but we had a fair idea of what land marks were we had to head for. We then just asked another operator to contact our kayak company. He offered to take the kayaks back to the company on his truck which meant no waiting for us. We had a quick hot shower - clean dry towel supplied, before we continued our road trip. A beautiful area of the country. I have done this once by kayak and probably would not do this again- perhaps a boat drop off and a walk back would be nice, if there is a next time.
