New Zealand🇳🇿 | national parksAbel Tasman National ParkGolden beaches, tidal estuaries, coastal track, turquoise bays | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Abel Tasman
🏆 Top picknational park ranked #3
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 21, 2026

Your boots crunch from golden sand to cool, packed dirt, and the air flips from salty to damp and green in three steps; a weka eyes your sandwich like it owns the place while a water taxi engine drones faintly out in the bay. Abel Tasman National Park sits at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, near Nelson, and it’s the country’s poster child for coastal hiking. For backpackers, it’s gorgeous and also a bit of a trap if you don’t plan: the Great Walk track is easy, well-marked, and packed with coves, seals, and clear water, but it’s busy, campsites and huts must be booked, and “budget” here is still pricier than most bush parks. Compared with Kahurangi or Nelson Lakes, Abel Tasman is softer, more social, more boat schedules than wilderness navigation. You come here for beaches and accessible beauty, not solitude.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 New Zealand Travel Guide.

Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD40 to 80 [doc.govt.nz]

Get your New Zealand guide

113 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (412 pages)

Loading the map 🌍

CLICK TO FILTER

cities

towns

villages

landmarks

national parks

hikes

beaches

attractions

festivals

regions

SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL

💡 Help me find the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #3 national park in New ZealandWhy visitors keep coming back

Abel Tasman National Park is a top choice for backpackers seeking independent exploration. The park’s coastal tracks and lush forests offer a variety of trails, catering to different skill levels. You can hike, kayak, or simply soak in the scenery at your own pace.

Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the camping options and nearby hostels. There are several campsites along the trails, allowing you to set up camp without breaking the bank. If you prefer a roof over your head, hostels in nearby towns provide affordable stays.

This park is particularly suited for self-guided travelers. While guided tours exist, they can limit your freedom. Here, you can choose your own adventure, whether that means taking a leisurely stroll or tackling a more challenging route.

Be mindful of the … read more 👉

Want to include Abel Tasman National Park in your New Zealand route?
Create a personalized New Zealand itinerary that includes Abel Tasman National Park and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while exploring Abel Tasman

Abel Tasman Coast Track — The park’s signature: about 60 km of easy-to-moderate walking that links golden beaches, limestone cliffs and lush beech forest. Do it as a relaxed multi-day tramp with huts/campsites or pick short day sections and hop water taxis between bays.
Split Apple Rock — A perfectly split granite boulder sitting just offshore and begging for a postcard photo. It’s an easy stop by water taxi or a short scramble from nearby beaches and looks especially dramatic at low tide and sunset.
Tonga Island Marine Reserve & seal colony — A protected marine playground where you can kayak or snorkel around kelp beds and often see New Zealand fur seals hauled out on the rocks. Dolphins and colourful reef fish turn up here too, which is rare for a day at the beach.
Awaroa Inlet & Awaroa

… read more 👉

Abel Tasman Coast Track — The park’s signature: about 60 km of easy-to-moderate walking that links golden beaches, limestone cliffs and lush beech forest. Do it as a relaxed multi-day tramp with huts/campsites or pick short day sections and hop water taxis between bays.
Split Apple Rock — A perfectly split granite boulder sitting just offshore and begging for a postcard photo. It’s an easy stop by water taxi or a short scramble from nearby beaches and looks especially dramatic at low tide and sunset.
Tonga Island Marine Reserve & seal colony — A protected marine playground where you can kayak or snorkel around kelp beds and often see New Zealand fur seals hauled out on the rocks. Dolphins and colourful reef fish turn up here too, which is rare for a day at the beach.
Awaroa Inlet & Awaroa Bay — A peaceful estuary framed by forest, sand dunes and a long golden beach; the tidal inlet creates a quiet lagoon perfect for paddling and birdwatching. The sense of remoteness here is real—fewer crowds, big skies.
Torrent Bay & Cleopatra’s Pool — Torrent Bay is a lovely, sheltered bay with a short bush walk to a freshwater rock pool and small waterfall known as Cleopatra’s Pool. It’s a rewarding swim after a day on the track and a great spot to cool off.
Anchorage Bay — The park’s busy hub: wide sandy beach, clear water for snorkeling, and the main water-taxi drop-off for many day walkers. It’s a good base for people-watching, picnics, and easy access to nearby tracks and coves.
Birdlife and coastal wildlife — Bright tui and bellbirds in the forest, kererū (wood pigeons), oystercatchers on the shore and the occasional little blue penguin at dusk make the park lively. Keep an eye on the water too—seals, rays and sometimes dolphins make regular appearances.

Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand

example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand

example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand

example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand

example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand

example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand

example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand

example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for New Zealand

Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 113 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?Best time to explore Abel Tasman

Weather: Abel Tasman’s weather swings with the seasons. Summers (December to February) are warm and dry, averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for water activities. Winters (June to August) bring rain and cooler temps around 10-15°C (50-59°F), which can make trails slippery and less inviting.

Temperature: Daytime highs in summer hover around 22°C (72°F), but nights can dip to 12°C (54°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temps, but expect more rain and cooler nights, so pack layers.

Daylight Hours: Summer days stretch long, up to 15 hours of light, giving you more time to explore. Winter shrinks daylight to about 9 hours, limiting hiking windows and making early starts essential.

Crowds: Peak season means busy campsites and crowded trails, especially around Christmas and New Year. Shoulder

… read more 👉

Weather: Abel Tasman’s weather swings with the seasons. Summers (December to February) are warm and dry, averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for water activities. Winters (June to August) bring rain and cooler temps around 10-15°C (50-59°F), which can make trails slippery and less inviting.

Temperature: Daytime highs in summer hover around 22°C (72°F), but nights can dip to 12°C (54°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temps, but expect more rain and cooler nights, so pack layers.

Daylight Hours: Summer days stretch long, up to 15 hours of light, giving you more time to explore. Winter shrinks daylight to about 9 hours, limiting hiking windows and making early starts essential.

Crowds: Peak season means busy campsites and crowded trails, especially around Christmas and New Year. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer quieter paths and a more relaxed vibe without sacrificing too much weather comfort.

Seasonal Activities: Summer is prime for kayaking, swimming, and beach camping. Autumn brings changing foliage and fewer tourists but less predictable weather. Winter’s off-season means limited services and fewer guided tours.

Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport costs spike in summer. Booking early is crucial. Off-season rates drop significantly, but some facilities close or reduce hours.

Pro-tip: Aim for late spring or early autumn to dodge the crowds and still enjoy decent weather—your wallet and peace of mind will thank you.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

new-zealand-national-park-abel-tasman-national-park

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutNew Zealand Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.

The digital guide (412 pages) contains:
✅ 113 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 7, 14 & 21-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ Local customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place

Save weeks of stressful planning

Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.

By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout

Best Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025

What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fantastic, amazing amount of information!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Awesome resource, thank you!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen

⭐⭐⭐⭐

I love this! Well done, great idea.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This might be the best website I've ever seen.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

10/10 very good

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is very impressive! Good work.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Choosing the right base

Abel Tasman National Park is a backpacker’s dream, but choosing where to stay can make or break your experience. Inside the park, the options are limited but solid. The Abel Tasman Lodge offers cozy cabins and is a great base for exploring. If you’re looking for something more rustic, the Awaroa Lodge provides a unique experience right on the beach, but be prepared for higher prices and limited access.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider the DOC campsites scattered throughout the park. They’re basic but provide a true connection to nature. Just remember to book in advance, especially during peak season, as spots fill up quickly.

If you prefer to stay outside the park, Motueka is your best bet. It’s a lively town with plenty of backpacker hostels, like The Motueka Backpackers, which offers a friendly atmosphere and easy access to shops and eateries. Marahau is another nearby option, with hostels and lodges that cater specifically to backpackers.

Keep in mind that transportation can add up. Plan your shuttles or water taxis ahead of time to avoid unexpected costs. Prioritize your budget for experiences inside the park, where the real magic happens.

Best hostels in New Zealand

Best quality hotels in New Zealand

👛 Costs (as of 6 February 2025)Money, prices, and spending tips

Visiting Abel Tasman National Park can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved to avoid surprises.

Entry to the park itself is free. However, if you plan to use the water taxis, which are a popular way to access various points along the coast, expect to pay between $40 to $70 USD per person for a one-way trip. Round trips can range from $80 to $140 USD, depending on the distance and the operator.

If you’re considering guided tours, prices can vary significantly. Half-day guided walks typically start around $100 USD, while full-day tours can go up to $200 USD or more. Kayaking rentals are another option, with prices around $50 to $100 USD for a half-day rental.

Accommodation options also vary. Campsites within the park are relatively affordable, usually costing about $15 to $20 USD per night. If you prefer more comfort, lodges and cabins can range from $100 to $300 USD per night, depending on the season and amenities.

Food costs can add up, especially if you’re dining in nearby towns. Expect to spend around $15 to $30 USD per meal at casual restaurants. Grocery stores are available if you want to prepare your own meals, which can help keep costs down.

Plan your budget accordingly. Knowing these costs upfront will help you focus on enjoying the park without worrying about unexpected expenses.

source: doc.govt.nz

⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🥾 TrailsScenic routes and wildlife spotting in Abel Tasman

The hiking in Abel Tasman National Park is nothing short of breathtaking. You’ve got golden beaches, lush forests, and stunning coastal views that’ll make you stop and take a million photos (not that anyone’s counting). The terrain is a mix of well-maintained paths and some uneven spots, so a decent pair of shoes is a must. Wildlife is abundant, too; keep an eye out for seals lounging on the rocks and the occasional kiwi if you’re lucky.

One of the standout trails is the Coastal Track. Here’s the lowdown:

Length: 60 km (37 miles)
Estimated Duration: 3-5 days, depending on your pace
Difficulty Level:

… read more 👉

Length: 60 km (37 miles)
Estimated Duration: 3-5 days, depending on your pace
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Key Features: Beautiful beaches, tidal estuaries, and native bush
Terrain: Mostly well-formed paths, with some steep sections and a few muddy spots after rain

Getting to the park is pretty straightforward. You can catch a bus from Nelson or Motueka, which is budget-friendly and saves you the hassle of driving. Just be aware that it can get crowded during peak season, especially around the beaches and popular viewpoints. No entrance fee is required, but if you plan to camp, there might be fees for that. So, pack your gear, grab some snacks, and enjoy the adventure!

⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Abel Tasman National Park is generally a welcoming place for backpackers, but a few realities can help you navigate it smoothly. The weather can shift quickly, so be prepared for sun, rain, or wind, especially in the shoulder seasons. Layering is your best friend; pack a lightweight waterproof jacket and quick-dry clothing.

The trails are well-maintained but can be steep in sections. Good footwear is essential—think sturdy hiking boots with decent grip. Watch your footing, especially on rocky paths or during river crossings.

Wildlife encounters are rare but possible. If you spot a seal or bird, keep your distance; they’re best appreciated from afar.

Finally, plan your days wisely. Start early to avoid the midday heat and give yourself ample time to reach your destination. This way, you … read more 👉

Check Country Safety

Other New Zealander national parks near Abel Tasman

Explore more nearby:

Nelson Lakes National Park—Alpine lakes, beech forest, mountain ridges, tramping routes| 126 km away
Paparoa National Park—Limestone cliffs, Pancake Rocks, coastal rainforest, cave systems| 183 km away
Whanganui National Park—Whanganui River, Māori heritage, deep gorges, canoe journeys| 246 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for New Zealand including Abel Tasman and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all national parks

Or checkout all New Zealand has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)

Explore New Zealand

We 💚 feedbackSumming up the experience

Abel Tasman National Park is a slice of paradise, where golden beaches meet lush forests. The coastal track offers stunning views that make every step worthwhile. But here’s the catch: the weather can be unpredictable. Rain can roll in fast, so pack for all conditions. Embrace the elements, and you’ll find the park’s beauty shines through, even on gray days. It’s all part of the adventure.

✈️ When did I visit New Zealand?
All the way back in high school I have been visiting the Northern Island of New Zealand (1993).

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in New Zealand, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.

🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story

Get full country guide •

New Zealand🇳🇿 | national parksAbel Tasman National ParkGolden beaches, tidal estuaries, coastal track, turquoise bays | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Abel Tasman
🏆 Top picknational park ranked #3
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 21, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #3 national park in New ZealandWhy visitors keep coming back

💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while exploring Abel Tasman

Things to do near Abel Tasman National Park

The Family Cruiser

Kayak & Walk

Oarsome Marine Reserve Kayak Tour

1 Day Sea Kayak Rental

Sail, Seals, and Walk Tour in Abel Tasman

Southern Duo kayak & walk tour

Remote Marine Reserve - Guided Kayaking - New Zealand

Lock, Stock & 2 Smoking Paddles

1 Day Freedom Rental

Seal Sanctuary Tour - Guided Kayaking - New Zealand

🌤️ When to go?Best time to explore Abel Tasman

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutNew Zealand Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?Choosing the right base

👛 Costs (as of 6 February 2025)Money, prices, and spending tips

🥾 TrailsScenic routes and wildlife spotting in Abel Tasman

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Other New Zealander national parks near Abel Tasman

We 💚 feedbackSumming up the experience

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

New Zealand🇳🇿 | national parksAbel Tasman National ParkGolden beaches, tidal estuaries, coastal track, turquoise bays | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Abel Tasman🏆 Top picknational park ranked #3By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 21, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ccdae0')

✨ Why go?Ranked #3 national park in New ZealandaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5cce5d2')Why visitors keep coming backaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5cce5d7')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ccfc23')Essential experiences to have while exploring Abel TasmanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ccfc2a')

Things to do near Abel Tasman National Park

The Family Cruiser

Kayak & Walk

Oarsome Marine Reserve Kayak Tour

1 Day Sea Kayak Rental

Sail, Seals, and Walk Tour in Abel Tasman

Southern Duo kayak & walk tour

Remote Marine Reserve - Guided Kayaking - New Zealand

Lock, Stock & 2 Smoking Paddles

1 Day Freedom Rental

Seal Sanctuary Tour - Guided Kayaking - New Zealand

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5cd062d')Best time to explore Abel TasmanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5cd0633')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutNew Zealand Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5cd1f9a')Choosing the right baseaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5cd1f9f')

👛 Costs (as of 6 February 2025)addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5cd26a8')Money, prices, and spending tipsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5cd26ac')

🥾 TrailsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ce136d')Scenic routes and wildlife spotting in Abel TasmanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ce1374')

🛡️ SafetyaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ce19b6')Traveler Safety GuideaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ce19ba')

Other New Zealander national parks near Abel TasmanaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ce3d32')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ce3e7e')Summing up the experienceaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ce3e82')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ce3ecd')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5d7d5ce3ed0')

Backpacking in Abel Tasman
🏆 Top picknational park ranked #3
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 21, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #3 national park in New ZealandWhy visitors keep coming back

💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while exploring Abel Tasman

🌤️ When to go?Best time to explore Abel Tasman

🛏️ Where to stay?Choosing the right base

👛 Costs (as of 6 February 2025)Money, prices, and spending tips

🥾 TrailsScenic routes and wildlife spotting in Abel Tasman

🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Other New Zealander national parks near Abel Tasman

We 💚 feedbackSumming up the experience

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?