Attractions & things to do in Golden Bay.
Relax at Golden Bay Beach Retreat & explore.
Golden Bay Beach Retreat is a short drive from Golden Bay’s beautiful beaches, world-famous springs, and award-winning eateries. Luxury accommodation like no other.
Mussel Inn Resturant, Golden Bay
Mussel Inn Restaurant, Golden Bay
A world away and central to everything.
You’ll feel tucked away in our own private hideaway, with a stretch of private beach, complete with a pristine creek and native bush, but you’re also close enough to explore the best parts of Golden Bay from the famous Mussel Inn to some of New Zealand’s most stunning walking tracks and wildlife adventures.
Discover our favourite parts of Golden Bay.
Farewell Spit - 20 minutes
A stunning 26km stretch of sandy beach along the Tasman Sea, Farewell Spit is a protected nature reserve home to migratory birds, sand dunes, and a historic lighthouse. Farewell Spit Tours offer insight into its unique ecosystem.
Te Waikoropupū (Pūpū) Springs
A showstopping freshwater spring only a 12 minutes drive away. The sacred site is known for its stunning underwater clarity, known to be some of the clearest in the world.
Abel Tasman National Park – 50 minute drive.
Golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush forests make Abel Tasman a worthwhile road trip if you’re staying with us for a while. The Abel Tasman track offers an array of options for hikers, you can complete sections of the track and water taxi back or walk the entire length of this stunning coastal walk. You can also kayak the trail, and you’re bound to spot some native wildlife up close.
Wharariki Beach – 40 minute drive.
A dramatic and windswept beach with massive rock formations, caves, and dunes. Best visited at low tide for epic scenery and seal pups in summer.
Rawhiti Cave - 30 minute drive.
A short but steep hike leads to this incredible limestone cave, famous for its unique "phytokarst" formations created by plant life interacting with the rock.
Wainui Falls – 45 minute drive.
An easy, scenic 20-minute walk through lush native bush is rewarded with a spectacular waterfall at the end of the track. Stop for a dip at one of the many accessible water holes along the track.
The Grove Scenic Reserve - 25 minute drive.
A hidden gem with massive limestone rock formations and a short, magical walk leading to a breathtaking lookout over Golden Bay.
Tākaka – a short 15 minute drive.
A vibrant, art-filled town with great cafes, local galleries, an outdoor market and unique shopping. Perfect for a relaxed wander and great coffee.
Mussel Inn – 4 minute drive.
A rustic, character-filled pub famous for its craft beers, live music, and relaxed atmosphere. A must-visit for great food and local brews.
Getting here.
We are only a short ten minute drive from Golden Bay Airport, 6 hour 10 minute drive from Christchurch and 4 hours 10 minute drive from Picton by car.
