Pros & cons
PROS
- Beachfront setting under pines with views to Adele and Fisherman Islands
- Easy walk‑in from Mārahau or boat‑in access
- Toilets and a few picnic tables on site
CONS
- Water is untreated—bring a filter or boil
- No showers, power, or vehicle access
- Limited flat tent space; small campground
Overview
A small, beachside Great Walk campsite, Apple Tree Bay puts your tent right on the sand with island views and evening quiet. It’s a mellow first overnight for families or anyone easing into the Abel Tasman Coast Track.
What You’ll Find
- Tent‑only sites tucked under pines beside clear, calm water.
- Non‑flush (long‑drop) toilets and a water supply on site—treat, boil, or filter before drinking.
- No showers, powered sites, dump station, or Wi‑Fi. A few picnic tables add a welcome touch for meals.
Getting There
Walk in on the Coast Track between Tinline and Anchorage from the Mārahau trailhead, or arrange a boat drop‑off/pick‑up nearby. There’s no drive‑on access.
Bookings, Costs & Stay Limits
This is a Department of Conservation Great Walk campsite: bookings are required year‑round, pricing varies by season and whether you’re NZ or international, infants are free, and the DOC Campsite Pass isn’t valid here. Maximum stay is 2 nights from Oct 1–Apr 30 and 5 nights from May 1–Sep 30.
Fires, Rules and Practicalities
Fires are only in designated fireplaces and only when no fire ban is in place—always check current restrictions. No dogs. Bring sun protection, insect repellent, and a reliable water treatment method.
Wildlife
Weka are common on this coast—curious, bold, and opportunistic. Keep food secured and don’t feed wildlife.
Best Time to Visit
Midweek and late afternoon into sunset are the sweet spots: day‑trippers thin out and the bay turns calm and quiet. Summer brings the warmest water; shoulder seasons are lovely if you’re prepared for changeable weather.
Current Safety Note
Aerial predator control using toxic bait was completed on September 12, 2025. Obey warning signs, don’t forage for food, and keep children close until notices are removed (up to eight months).
Where it is
-40.9839, 173.0368Tips for Apple Tree Bay Campsite
- 01Book early—this small Great Walk campsite fills in peak months.
- 02Carry a filter or treatment; all water here is untreated.
- 03If boating, confirm exact drop‑off and pick‑up points with your operator.
- 04Use only designated fireplaces and check for any fire bans before lighting.
- 05Secure food well—curious weka will raid unattended bags.
Amenities
Near Apple Tree Bay Campsite
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awayApple Tree BayGolden sand bay with a simple beachside campsite and island viewsRestroom · Picnic Table
0.5 mi awayCoquille BaySmall beachside camp, easy walk from MarahauCampground · Restroom
0.6 mi awayCoquille Bay LookoutGolden-sand bay view with all-tide swimming belowScenic Viewpoint
0.7 mi awayTinline Nature WalkA 20-minute forest detour with a quirky tree near Tinline BayEasy · 0 mi · 20 min
0.7 mi awayTinline CampsiteEasy first-night stop near Mārahau on grassy, sheltered sitesCampground · Restroom
1.8 mi awayAbel Tasman Coast TrackGolden beaches, swing bridges, and tide‑timed tramping on the coastModerate · 37.3 mi · 20 hr
1.9 mi awayAbel Tasman Coast Track: Marahau to Anchorage BayGolden beaches and easy coastal walking to Anchorage BayEasy · 7.7 mi · 4 hr
2.2 mi awayCleopatra's Pool TrackCold, clear plunge pool with a natural rock waterslide off the Coast TrackEasy · 0 mi · 42 min
