Anchorage Caves

Overview

Tucked at the northern end of Anchorage Beach, the Anchorage Caves are a small, atmospheric stop where visitors come to glimpse glowworms in a coastal cave setting. It’s a simple detour from the Anchorage hub—home to a DOC hut and large campsite—and a memorable add‑on if you’re staying the night or arriving by water taxi.

What You’ll See

• After dark, tiny pinpricks of bioluminescence from glowworms make the cave walls feel star‑spangled.
• You may also encounter cave weta—harmless but spidery locals—so be prepared for close‑quarters critters.

Getting There

• Anchorage is reached on the Abel Tasman Coast Track (about 4 hours/12.4 km from Mārahau) or by water taxi. From the beach, the caves are at the northern end.
• Many guided kayak or small‑boat trips that overnight or pause at Anchorage include a short evening visit to a “secret” glowworm cave when conditions allow.

Best Time to Visit

• Glowworms are best experienced after dark, typically on calm evenings when guides can safely nose boats into the cave.
• Daytime beach time here is great, but the glow shows once night falls; plan your stop around an overnight at Anchorage or an evening tour.

Nearby Highlights

• Base yourself at Anchorage Hut and the adjacent campsite, then wander the easy Pitt Head loop for big coastal views.
• Cleopatra’s Pool—along the high‑tide track toward Torrent Bay—is a classic swim stop if you’re exploring the area more broadly.

Practicalities & Etiquette

• There are no stand‑alone facilities at the caves; use the flush toilets near Anchorage Hut/campsite before you go and pack out all rubbish.
• Weather and sea state strongly influence access—have a Plan B if conditions turn.
• If you’re continuing toward Torrent Bay, check tide times for the estuary crossing or use the signed high‑tide route.