Golden Bay, New Zealand has coastal walks, short bush tracks and full day hikes in Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks. Many options are suitable for families and start within a short drive from Tākaka and Ruru Retreat.

Beaches around Tākaka and along the Golden Bay coastline have shallow water and soft sand. Places such as Tata Bay, Ligar Bay and Pohara are well suited for swimming, playing and relaxed days by the sea.

Clear rivers inland from Tākaka and Collingwood provide natural pools and easy access points for swimming. Many spots are close to the road and work well for families who want shade, fresh water and space to relax.

Quiet country roads and gravel routes in the Golden Bay and wider Nelson Tasman region are good for cycling and light bike adventures. Riders can choose relaxed coastal trips, farmland loops or hill rides with views over the bay.

Near Tākaka township, Paines Ford and other limestone crags offer bolted sport climbs. On Tākaka Hill, a guided via ferrata route gives visitors an easy way to experience height and rock with equipment and support provided.

Sheltered bays in Golden Bay, New Zealand are suitable for kayaking and stand up paddling. Local operators offer rentals and guided trips so visitors can explore the coastline and sandbanks from the water.

Golden Bay on the top of New Zealand’s South Island offers beach fishing, boat fishing and freshwater angling in local rivers. A nearby salmon farm lets visitors catch their own fish in a managed environment.

Horse trekking operators in the Golden Bay region run rides on beaches, farm tracks and backcountry trails. They can usually match the route and pace to the experience level of each rider.

The road over Tākaka Hill into Golden Bay and the coast and valley roads around Tākaka and Collingwood include several lookouts and short walks. They are well suited for slow driving with frequent stops to enjoy the views.

Scenic flights from Tākaka and Nelson show Golden Bay, Farewell Spit and nearby national parks from above. Different operators in the Nelson Tasman region use small planes or helicopters and offer a range of route options.

Tākaka, Collingwood and Pohara in Golden Bay, New Zealand have a good mix of cafés, restaurants and bars. Well known places include The Dangerous Kitchen, the Mussel Inn and several smaller venues with local food and drink.

Tākaka township is the main centre of Golden Bay, with supermarkets, shops, cafés and services. Collingwood and the coastal settlements of Pohara, Ligar Bay and Tata Beach offer smaller village atmospheres close to the sea.

Museums and historic sites in Golden Bay, Aotearoa New Zealand present Māori history, European settlement, gold mining and local industry. Galleries and events show the active arts and community life of the region.