Abel Tasman: Kayak & Walk Tour with Adele Island Wildlife

Summary

Kayak to wild beaches walk forest trails spot seals on Adele Island

You’ll start your Abel Tasman day trip walking forest tracks from Marahau to Observation Beach before kayaking back along golden coves past Adele Island’s seal colony. Enjoy a fresh lunch on the sand with your guide and spot native birds along the way. It’s relaxed but full of small surprises you’ll remember long after you’ve washed off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I almost missed the Abel Tasman kayak & walk tour because I’d left my hiking shoes in the car — classic me. The guide, Sam, just grinned and said, “Barefoot’s not unheard of here,” but lent me his spare pair anyway. It was that kind of morning: slightly chaotic, sun already warming up Marahau, coffee still swirling in my head. We set off toward Observation Beach, the sand squeaking underfoot (or under borrowed shoes), and I kept stopping to watch the light flicker through those fat-leaved trees. Didn’t expect to hear so many birds — tui calls everywhere, like someone whistling from deep in the bush.

The walk took longer than I’d planned because I got distracted by these weirdly perfect golden coves. At one point I sat on a log and just listened to the water slapping rocks below. Lunch at Observation Beach was simple but honestly hit the spot — fresh roll with local cheese and greens, sweet fruit, and plunger coffee that tasted way better than it had any right to out there. There were three of us plus Sam by then, swapping stories about where we’d come from. A weka (that’s a bird, not a chicken) strutted right up to our bags like he owned the place.

After lunch came the kayak part — which is what I’d really signed up for. Sam gave us a quick rundown (“Don’t worry if you tip over — it’s warmer than it looks!”) and we pushed off into this glassy blue-green water. Paddling past Adele Island was surreal; seals flopped around on rocks and one slid into the sea right beside us. The air smelled briny and sharp. My arms got tired faster than I wanted to admit but drifting back toward Marahau with salt spray on my face felt like being let in on some local secret.

I still think about that last stretch home — sun dropping lower behind us, everything quiet except for paddles dipping and someone laughing about their soaked sneakers. If you’re after something polished or perfectly organized, this probably isn’t it. But that’s exactly why it stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and walk Abel Tasman coast

• Check in and meet guide at 8:15am
• Receive map and walk tips
• Walk unguided to Observation Beach (3 hrs)
• Enjoy lunch at Observation Beach at 12:15pm
• Attend kayak briefing at 1:00pm
• Kayak from Observation Beach to Marahau (2 hrs)
• Arrive back in Marahau at 4:00pm

Top questions

How long is the Abel Tasman kayak & walk tour?

The tour lasts about 7-8 hours total, starting at 8:15am and ending around 4pm.

Is lunch included on this Abel Tasman day trip?

Yes, lunch is included at Observation Beach with a freshly baked roll, fruit, sweet snack, coffee and juice.

Do I need kayaking experience for this tour?

No previous kayaking experience is needed; guides provide instructions before setting out.

Are there chances to see wildlife like seals or birds?

Yes, you may spot seals near Adele Island and native birds along both the walk and kayak sections.

Is pickup included for this Abel Tasman kayak & walk tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; check-in is at Marahau before departure.

What if I have dietary requirements?

Dietary requirements can be catered for if notified in advance.

Can public transportation get me to Marahau?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby Marahau.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but does involve several hours of walking and kayaking.

What’s included

Your day covers an unguided coastal walk from Marahau to Observation Beach followed by a guided kayak back past Adele Island’s wildlife hotspots. You’ll get all gear provided plus a fresh local lunch with coffee and juice at midday—just let them know if you have dietary needs before booking.