Abel Tasman Coast Track: Marahau to Anchorage Bay

Overview

This first section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track runs 12.4 km (about 7.7 miles) one way from Marahau to Anchorage Bay, taking most walkers around 4 hours. You’ll start by crossing the Marahau causeway, then wind through open country and beech/kānuka forest with frequent coastal views before the big reveal of Anchorage Bay. The track is well marked and mostly easy, with a few short steeper or rough/muddy bits after rain.

Route highlights (south → north)

• Marahau to Tinline Bay: gentle boardwalk-and-bush walking; there’s a short nature walk at Tinline Bay if you want a quick detour.
• Apple Tree Bay and beyond: classic golden-sand beaches and clear water, with constant outlooks to Adele and Fisherman Islands. Expect a couple of brief ups/downs where slip detours exist.
• Anchorage Bay: a popular finish with a large campsite and a DOC hut right by the sand.

If you’ve got extra time at Anchorage, quick add-ons from here include Te Pukatea Bay (a picture‑perfect cove) and the Pitt Head Loop for elevated views. After dark, some visitors check out the small glowworm caves at the north end of Anchorage Beach.

Tides and transport

There are no compulsory tidal crossings between Marahau and Anchorage, so planning is straightforward. Tides only matter if you continue beyond Anchorage toward Torrent Bay: you can either take the all‑tide track or use the estuary crossing around low tide. Most visitors make this a one‑way day by pairing the walk with a year‑round water taxi; Anchorage is a major pickup/drop‑off point and advance booking is smart.

Staying at Anchorage

Anchorage has both a hut and a campsite, and bookings are required year‑round. Huts do not have gas cooking facilities or lighting—bring a portable stove, fuel, and a headlamp. Water at huts/campsites should be boiled before use. Campsites are for tents only (no hammocks).

Best time to hike

This track can be walked year‑round. October through April is busiest and Anchorage can feel lively with boats. Winter brings quieter trails, fewer insects, and calm seas, but shorter daylight. Expect generally mild conditions overall, with the possibility of strong westerly winds in late spring and summer.

What to pack and know

Carry sun protection, enough water, snacks, a light rain layer, and insect repellent—sandflies are active, and wasps are present; bring appropriate medication if you have allergies. Clothes can’t be dried in huts. For safety on the wider Coast Track, it’s worth checking tide tables if your plans include any tidal sections further north.

Safety notes

Boil all hut/campsite water. Be aware of tsunami risk along the coast: after a long or strong earthquake, unusual sea noises, or a sudden sea‑level change, move to higher ground immediately.