Pros & cons
PROS
- Golden sand and calm swimming with island views
- Simple beachside DOC campsite with toilet, water tap, and picnic table
CONS
- No road access and very limited facilities
- Wasps and sandflies can be bothersome; bring repellent
Overview
Apple Tree Bay is the first truly dreamy, golden-sand beach on the Abel Tasman Coast Track—close enough to Mārahau for a mellow day out, far enough to feel like you’ve earned it. Expect tranquil water, views toward Adele and Fisherman Islands, and a relaxed vibe that quiets down after day visitors move on.
Getting There
You reach the bay on foot along the Coast Track, about 5–6 km one way from Mārahau. There’s no road or vehicle access. Water taxis can drop you nearby, and kayakers often pull in for lunch or an overnight.
What You’ll See and Do
- Swim and laze on the sheltered, golden sand.
- Wander short side paths to little coves along the shoreline.
- Enjoy broad views over the Astrolabe Roadstead toward the offshore islands.
Facilities and Rules
- DOC campsite right behind the beach: basic toilets, an untreated water tap, and a picnic table. Treat/boil/filter all water.
- Tent sites only (roughly 11–15 spots). Booking is required and enforced; it’s a Great Walk campsite.
- Stay limits: Oct 1–Apr 30 up to 2 nights; May 1–Sept 30 up to 5 nights.
- Fires only in provided fireplaces and only when no fire ban is in place.
- No dogs allowed anywhere here.
Seasonal Notes
The Coast Track is walkable year‑round. The busy season runs October–April. Late spring and summer often bring strong westerlies along the coast; autumn and winter are typically calmer, with fewer insects but shorter daylight.
Safety and Current Advisory
Weather shifts fast on this coast—wind and rain can roll in quickly—so check forecasts and be prepared. Wasps and sandflies are present; carry repellent and any needed allergy meds. A predator‑control operation using 1080 was completed on September 12, 2025. Heed warning signs, do not forage or hunt for food, and keep children well away from any bait pellets or carcasses through about May 12, 2026.
Best Time to Visit
Aim for early morning or late afternoon for soft light on the golden sand and gentler crowds. Weekdays are quieter than weekends in peak season. If you’re camping, the bay settles into a peaceful evening once day walkers and water taxis thin out.
Quick Tips
- This is a walk‑in/boat‑in spot—plan your transport and book your campsite early in peak season.
- Bring a swimsuit and a reliable water treatment method.
- Pack a light wind layer in spring/summer; those westerlies can kick up.
- Carry toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and a headlamp for night visits to the loo.
Where it is
-40.9836, 173.0395Tips for Apple Tree Bay
- 01Book the campsite in advance; it’s a small, popular Great Walk site.
- 02Treat all water from the tap—carry a filter or tablets.
- 03Expect wind in late spring and summer; pack a light shell.
- 04No road access—walk from Mārahau or arrange a water taxi or kayak drop-off.
Amenities
Near Apple Tree Bay
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awayApple Tree Bay CampsiteBeachfront Great Walk campsite with island views and evening calmRestroom · Picnic Table
0.6 mi awayCoquille BaySmall beachside camp, easy walk from MarahauCampground · Restroom
0.6 mi awayStilwell BayGolden sand cove with calm, lagoon-like water at high tide
0.7 mi awayCoquille Bay LookoutGolden-sand bay view with all-tide swimming belowScenic Viewpoint
0.8 mi awayTinline Nature WalkA 20-minute forest detour with a quirky tree near Tinline BayEasy · 0 mi · 20 min
2 mi awayAbel Tasman Coast TrackGolden beaches, swing bridges, and tide‑timed tramping on the coastModerate · 37.3 mi · 20 hr
2 mi awayAbel Tasman Coast Track: Marahau to Anchorage BayGolden beaches and easy coastal walking to Anchorage BayEasy · 7.7 mi · 4 hr
2.1 mi awayCleopatra's Pool TrackCold, clear plunge pool with a natural rock waterslide off the Coast TrackEasy · 0 mi · 42 min
