Anapai Bay Campsite

Overview

Tucked into a small, golden‑sand cove on the Abel Tasman Coast Track, Anapai Bay Campsite is the kind of place you plan for one night and end up wishing you’d booked two. With only about six tent sites (roughly 12 people max), it feels wonderfully intimate once the day hikers clear out. Expect clear water, gentle surf, and rock pools at both ends of the bay.

What You’ll Find

• Facilities are simple and tidy: a toilet (reported by recent visitors as flushing), a hand‑washing sink, and a single picnic table. There’s a tap on site, but the water is untreated—bring treatment or fill up at Tōtaranui before you walk in.
• No showers, no power, and no rubbish bins, so it’s strict pack‑in/pack‑out. Dogs and vehicles aren’t allowed; this is a walk‑in or boat‑in campsite only.

Getting There

• The easiest approach is on foot from Tōtaranui camp office—about an hour each way on the Great Walk standard track.
• If you’re driving to Tōtaranui first, the final 12 km of road is narrow, winding, and unsealed. Take it slow and allow extra time.

Wildlife & Nature

Keep an eye out for fur seals around the rocks and in the shallows—sightings are occasional but not unusual. Summer brings sand‑loving wasps; carry antihistamines if you’re sensitive.

Rules & Safety Notes

• Treat all drinking water (giardia risk exists in the area).
• Fires: carry a stove. Only use a fireplace if one is provided and there is no fire ban in place.
• Predator control notice: a 1080 operation was completed on September 12, 2025. Heed warning signs, don’t forage or hunt, and keep clear of any bait pellets or carcasses you may encounter.

Booking & Fees

This is a Department of Conservation Great Walk campsite; advance booking is required year‑round and the DOC Campsite Pass isn’t valid here. Per person, per night (NZD):

• Oct 1–Apr 30: NZ adult $21; International adult $31; NZ child (5–17) $10; International child (0–17) $15; infants free.
• May 1–Sep 30: Adults $21; Children (5–17) $10; infants free.

Proof of eligibility is required for New Zealand rates.

Best Time to Visit

Aim for late afternoon arrival to enjoy the bay after day walkers head out, then wake up for a knockout sunrise from the sand. Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends in peak season (Dec–Feb). Morning light is soft for photos and the sea is often calmer for a swim.