Marahau’s location at the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park makes it an ideal spot for canoe and kayak adventures. Its calm waters, stunning coastline, and abundance of wildlife create a perfect setting for both relaxing paddles and active explorations. We especially like the Kayak & Walk tour because it combines the thrill of paddling around the islands with a scenic hike on land, offering a well-rounded day in nature. Plus, with hassle-free pickups from Nelson or Motueka, it’s a stress-free way to enjoy the outdoors. For those who want more guided expertise, the Oarsome Marine Reserve Kayak Tour is a must, with its small-group format and focus on marine wildlife like fur seals and lagoons.
Whether you’re after a half-day paddle, a full-day guided trip, or an independent rental, Marahau offers options for all interests and skill levels. Below is a list of the best canoe and kayak experiences that blend natural beauty with adventure, making the most of Abel Tasman’s inviting waters.
1. Kayak & Walk
The Kayak & Walk tour makes a perfect introduction to Abel Tasman’s diverse landscape. It includes a morning kayaking excursion around the islands and along the coast, followed by a scenic hike on bush trails that pass streams and coastal viewpoints. The tour culminates with a delicious beachside lunch at Observation Beach, with panoramic views of the ocean. This tour is praised for its seamless combination of land and sea exploration, and the hassle-free transfers from Nelson or Motueka add to the convenience. With a top rating of 5.0/5 from 155 reviews, it’s clear that travelers appreciate the careful planning and friendly guides.
What sets this experience apart is the relaxed pace and focus on stunning scenery, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate paddlers alike. The guided hike offers a chance to appreciate Abel Tasman’s wild landscapes without rushing. The value for money is excellent, given the full day of activities and included lunch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-timers and those seeking a balanced day of paddling and walking in Abel Tasman with easy logistics.
2. Oarsome Marine Reserve Kayak Tour
This full-day guided kayak tour is perfect for active travelers who want to explore the marine highlights of Abel Tasman from the water. The tour includes navigating to Tonga Island, where you can see fur seal colonies at Shag Harbour. After paddling around idyllic lagoons and golden beaches, a water taxi returns you to Marahau. It’s designed for moderately fit participants with some kayaking experience, ensuring you get the most out of the day without feeling overwhelmed.
The tour is noted for its small group size (max. 8) and the expert guidance that points out wildlife and geological features. Travelers frequently mention the exciting water taxi rides and the spectacular lagoons as standouts. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, making it more than just paddling—it’s a full immersion into Abel Tasman’s marine environment.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those with some paddling experience who want a comprehensive, wildlife-rich day on the water.
3. Marahau: Abel Tasman Kayaks Kayak and Walk
This guided kayak and walk trip offers the chance to experience Abel Tasman’s coast from two perspectives in one day. Starting with a morning paddle past 12 beaches, you’ll see seals up close and enjoy the smooth, calm waters. In the afternoon, the guide takes you on a walk along the southern end of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, providing insights into the local flora and fauna.
The tour is highly rated at 4.8/5 based on 65 reviews, with many travelers praising the ease of the paddle and the up-close wildlife encounters. The combination of kayaking and walking provides a well-rounded experience, especially for those who want a taste of both land and sea adventures without dedicating multiple days.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a manageable day that combines paddling with land exploration, especially if wildlife viewing is a priority.
4. 1 Day Sea Kayak Rental
If you prefer to set your own pace, the 1 Day Sea Kayak Rental gives you complete independence. For around $67, you can paddle along Abel Tasman’s coastline for up to seven hours, stopping at beaches for picnics or swims. Kayaks and equipment are provided, and it’s ideal for those with some kayaking experience who want the freedom to explore at will.
The reviews highlight how much people love discovering secluded beaches and spotting seals on off-shore islands. It’s a simple yet rewarding activity that allows you to tailor your day to your mood and interests, whether that’s a quiet paddle or a scenic trip past Split Apple Rock.
Bottom Line: Best for independent paddlers with some experience who want an affordable way to explore Abel Tasman’s coast solo.
5. Southern Duo kayak & walk tour
This small-group guided tour combines kayaking and hiking along the southern part of Abel Tasman. You’ll paddle to Adele Island, likely seeing fur seals basking in the sun, then hike to panoramic viewpoints away from crowds. The tour is for moderately fit travelers who love both land and sea.
Rated 5/5 from 23 reviews, travelers enjoy the personalized experience and the chance to see less-visited areas of the park. The itinerary provides a good mix of wildlife spotting and scenic hikes, with all gear included. It’s especially suited for those wanting an active day with plenty of wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for nature lovers who want both kayaking and hiking with a focus on wildlife.
6. Remote Marine Reserve – Guided Kayaking – New Zealand
This full-day guided tour uses the tides to maximize your experience of Abel Tasman’s remote marine areas. It’s one of the few tours authorized for marine mammal viewing from sea kayaks, which means the chances of spotting dolphins or seals are high. The focus is on learning about geology, fauna, and the environment.
Rated perfectly at 5.0/5, it’s praised for its informative guides and the unique opportunity to explore less-accessible parts of the park. If you’re interested in ecological insights and wildlife, this tour offers a more immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for eco-minded travelers who want a guided day focusing on marine wildlife and environmental education.
7. Mārāhau: Abel Tasman Marine Reserve Kayak Tour
For a full immersion in the marine environment, this 8-hour kayak tour explores Tonga Island Marine Reserve. You paddle past lively fur seals and pristine lagoons, with a picnic lunch on the beach. The tour includes transport to the marine reserve and is led by a professional guide, with access to hot showers and wifi at the base.
Many reviews mention the playful seals and the tranquil lagoons as highlights. This tour is best suited for those looking for a full-day adventure with wildlife encounters and a comfortable base with amenities.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive day in the heart of Abel Tasman.
8. Three Day Classic Kayaking in New Zealand
This extended three-day tour is for serious paddlers wanting an immersive experience. It covers Tonga Island, Tonga Bay, and the surrounding coast, with wildlife sightings like fur seals and blue penguins. The trip includes guided kayaking, beachside lunches, and hassle-free transfers from Nelson or Motueka.
Rated 5/5, travelers rave about the wildlife sightings and the relaxed pace. It’s perfect for adventurous, fit travelers aiming to explore the park’s full extent over multiple days.
Bottom Line: Not for the faint of heart, but excellent for dedicated kayakers seeking a multi-day wildlife adventure.
9. Seal Sanctuary Tour – Guided Kayaking
This half-day tour offers a chance to paddle to Tonga Island and see fur seals and blue penguins in their natural habitat. The tour includes a water taxi transfer, about 1.5 hours on the water, and a delicious beachside lunch. It’s praised for the sea life spotting and the easy pace, making it suitable for most travelers.
One reviewer noted, “Ed was a superb guide who did a great job spotting seals,” highlighting the expert guidance. It’s a great option for those short on time but eager for wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife lovers who want a manageable half-day tour with excellent chances of seeing seals.
10. Kayak & Pitt Head Nature Loop
This full-day adventure combines kayaking with an unguided walk on the Pitt Head Loop, guided by a professional for about four hours. It allows you to explore the Astrolabe coastline with insights from your guide, then take time to relax or hike independently.
Rated 5/5, travelers appreciate the diverse scenery and the combination of guided and free exploration. The trip is suited for those who want both instruction and independence.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers wanting a mix of guided insight and solo adventure.
11. 3 Day Unguided Kayaking starting in the Abel Tasman National Park
For those preferring to go solo, this 3-day kayak rental offers all the gear needed to traverse Abel Tasman at your own pace. The package includes a park camping pass, but you’ll need your own camping gear. Starting from Marahau, you can explore beaches and coves over multiple days.
It’s ideal for experienced paddlers who love planning their own route and stopping wherever they like. The reviews mention the freedom and the chance to encounter seals and seabirds along the coast.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventure-ready travelers who want a self-guided multi-day expedition.
12. 2 Day Freedom Kayak – Kayak Rental
This two-day rental offers flexible exploration of Abel Tasman’s coastline without guided tours. You can paddle when and where you want, with all gear provided. It’s perfect for seasoned paddlers who enjoy self-directed trips and want to camp overnight in the park.
Rated 5/5, previous campers love the freedom to explore at their own pace and the chance to see seals and birds up close. Remember, a minimum of two people is required.
Bottom Line: A flexible option for experienced kayakers eager for independent exploration.
13. 3 Day Kayak & Walk North
This three-day package combines kayaking from Marahau to Onetahuti and a walk to Totaranui. It’s designed for active travelers wanting a mixture of paddling and hiking, with options to enjoy the beaches and wildlife along the way.
Rated 5/5, reviewers mention the well-organized itinerary and the opportunity to experience both land and sea environments deeply. It’s perfect for those who want an immersive multi-day adventure.
Bottom Line: Excellent for energetic travelers looking to combine kayaking and walking over a few days.
14. The Two Gods – Guided Kayak & Unguided Walk
This single-day trip incorporates paddling and walking, tailored to the tide timetable. It explores the realm of Tangaroa and Tane Mahuta, blending myth and nature. The tour starts at Awaroa or Onetahuti, ending at Bark Bay or Anchorage, depending on conditions.
Rated 5/5, travelers enjoy the personalized experience and the chance to explore the park’s best tidal zones. It’s suitable for those wanting a flexible, culturally rich day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in a tide-dependent, culturally infused adventure.
15. Abel Tasman Kayaks: 3 Day Kayak and Walk North
This three-day guided tour offers a mix of kayaking, walking, and water taxi rides through Abel Tasman. Participants can explore at their own pace, enjoying wildlife sightings like seals and penguins. The tour includes full briefing and access to hot showers and wifi.
Rated 5/5, it’s perfect for active explorers who want an in-depth, multi-day experience. It requires a minimum of two people and is suited for travelers comfortable with multi-day outdoor activities.
Bottom Line: The best choice for committed outdoor lovers wanting a comprehensive, guided multi-day experience.
$197 per person
How to Choose the Right Canoe & Kayak Experience in Marahau
When picking your tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and how much guidance you want. For example, if you prefer a guided day trip with wildlife and land exploration, the Kayak & Walk (see here) is perfect. If you’re comfortable paddling independently, the 1 Day Sea Kayak Rental (check details) offers freedom at a great price.
For multi-day adventures or self-guided trips, the 3 Day Unguided Kayak (more info) and the 2 Day Freedom Kayak (here) give you flexibility to craft your own route.
Timing is key—most tours are best from spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and the seas are calm. Book early, especially for guided tours, as popular options tend to fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Marahau’s canoe and kayak experiences span a wide range — from relaxing half-day paddles to intensive multi-day expeditions. For most travelers, a guided tour like the Kayak & Walk offers comfort, scenery, and wildlife encounters all in one package. More adventurous souls should consider self-guided rentals or multi-day trips for a true sense of freedom and discovery.
Whatever your style, Marahau provides access to some of New Zealand’s most beautiful waterscapes. With so many options, it’s worth planning your adventure early to ensure you get the perfect fit for your interests and fitness level. So, lace up your boots, grab your paddle, and get ready for unforgettable days on the water in Abel Tasman.