Pitt Head Loop Track

Overview

A compact hit of Abel Tasman scenery: blue bays, green headlands, and golden sand in a 3.2 km/2.0 mi total loop from Anchorage. Expect easy walking on a well‑formed track with gentle climbs and multiple viewpoints. Most hikers take 1–1.5 hours; plan extra time for photos and a swim at Te Pukatea Bay.

Why go

This is the park’s classic short walk. You’ll reach Pitt Head, a historic Māori pā site with visible earthworks, then descend to the crescent of Te Pukatea—often called the most beautiful beach in the park. Views reach along the coast toward Tonga Island, and bellbirds add a soundtrack in the kānuka/tea‑tree forest.

Route

Start at the southern end of Anchorage Beach and follow signs for Pitt Head/Te Pukatea. Go left at the first junction to climb gently through forest; take the brief lookout detour near the top. Continue to the headland loop at Pitt Head, crossing the old pā ditch. Retrace to the junction, turn left toward the Te Pukatea lookout, then drop to Te Pukatea Bay for a swim. A short climb over a low saddle returns you to Anchorage.

Logistics

There are no roads into this section of the park—take a water taxi to/from Anchorage from Marahau or Kaiteriteri. Several operators run daily; some publish sample departures around mid‑morning with early afternoon returns. Walking the loop is free; you’ll pay for the boat. Anchorage has a DOC hut and campground; toilets are at Te Pukatea campground. The loop itself isn’t tidal, but tides matter only if you also plan to walk toward Torrent Bay. For a longer day, add Cleopatra’s Pool from Anchorage via the all‑tide track (about 4 km return; allow roughly 1.5 hours plus swim time).

Best time to hike

Year‑round. Because the loop is not tidal, you can time it for softer light—mornings and late afternoons are nicest—and warmer mid‑day water if you want to swim. Summer is busier; book water taxis in advance and expect some company on the track.