Abel Tasman Great Walk: Takapou to Marahau is a 54.4 kilometer heavily trafficked point-to-point trail located near Takaka, Tasman, New Zealand that offers the chance to see wildlife and is rated as difficult. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round.
backpacking
camping
hiking
trail running
bird watching
beach
views
wildlife
bugs
The easiest and most popular of the Great Walks, this hike still provides a challenge that is well worth it. There are no peaks on this hike but there is still a lot of elevation gain, and with a pack, this hike will still be challenging. The months of February and April are slightly quieter than the busiest periods, yet still offer an ideal temperature to be on the coast. The hike is well travelled and has signage but can be muddy at times. You will need to consult a tide chart as Onetahuti beach and Awaroa estuary are only passable at low tide. Allow 5 days to hike this trail. This trail can be traversed in either direction. Great Walks huts have bunk beds (being a sleeping bag), heaters, and bathroom facilities (no hot water). You will need to provide your own bedding, and all cooking supplies and stoves. You should also bring a headland to be safe. There are no showers. New Zealand rate $38 (1 October – 30 April) per adult per night; 17 years and under free (booking required). $32 (1 May – 30 September) per adult per night; 17 years and under free (booking required). International rate $75 (1 October – 30 April) per person per night for all ages (booking required). $32 (1 May – 30 September) per adult per night; 17 years and under free (booking required). Great Walks campsites have toilets, water, and picnic areas. New Zealand rate $15 per adult per night; 17 years and under free (booking required). International rate $30 (1 October – 30 April) per person per night for all ages (booking required). $15 (1 May – 30 September) per adult per night, 17 years and under free (booking required).
Really great track. We hiked from Marahau to Wharawhangi then back to Tortoranui to catch a water taxi back. The hike was mostly flat but there were still many locations where the forest opened up giving way to a great view of the coast. It was also very nice to camp right on all the amazing beaches and go for a swim each day! Great hike would highly recommend!
This really shouldn’t be one of the Great Walks. It’s not so much of a hike as it is a stroll. It’s almost entirely flat, and the uphill sections are short and not steep. There is literally not a single part of this trail that’s demanding. I hiked days 1-3 (Aowara - Marahau) in under 6 hours. Also, it’s pretty busy and only rewards you very occasionally with views as most of the time the canopy hides everything.
There are much better hikes to do around here, whether you’re in it for the challenge or the views.
Nice trail, a little busy south of totaranui.
Such a good Great Walk catered to fit people who want to try something new. Just make sure you have really good shoes because the final decent on the first day is really steep and it can be very slippery if wet.
not as wonderful as all the hype! I took the aquataxi from Marahau to Barks Bay and then hiked back to Marahau. 15 miles later, I can tell you that the hike was mostly through the bush which is very thick and as such, very, very limited, to no, views of the ocean. so if you like the beauty of the bush, then you will love this coast track. if you want more views of the surrounding mountains and ocean, you will be disappointed! the hike was a combination of flat areas and some steep inclines.
Hiked this in end of February so nice weather ! Started in Anchorage and ended in Marahau, 12.4km. The beginning was very very steep and sun exposed. But the rest of the trail was level, and shaded. Lots of bees on the trail, not sure if a seasonal thing. Very pretty views, but would rate it as moderate not easy !
Definitely not “easy” if you are bringing a pack. Routeburn is listed as “hard” and is 10 miles less and the same total elevation gain. I personally prefer a steady gradual climb with a steady gradual decline (Routeburn) rather than 10-15 steep up and down climbs that Abel Tasman has. If you are bringing a large pack or have bad knees - be ready for a much more difficult hike than All Trails makes it out to be. Still an amazing hike though, and some incredible jungle to ocean views. Bring jandals or an extra pair of shoes though - because you’ll get your feet wet.
The best track I did if we are talking about beach sand and blue water ! A must do
Simply gorgeous! every beach is a dream and the camping is pretty good in most places. Kayaked part of it and hiked out the rest (towards takaka). Lots of tidal estuary crossings.
Most of this hike is very flat and is complemented by stunning views of the ocean. It can be both hiked or kayaked. It is well-traveled but not congested. Also, you can take a ferry back from certain points along the trail back to the start if you don't want to complete the whole trail.
Did part on a kayak, hiked a bit too. One of my favorites I've done.
