Awesome Things to Do in Pohara, NZ

Pohara is a beloved holiday destination for many New Zealanders due to its beautiful beachside location. However, many international tourists have yet to discover this hidden Golden Bay paradise. Nestled on the gorgeous shores of New Zealand’s South Island, with its pristine golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking natural surroundings, this enchanting destination offers a tranquil beachside escape. Keep reading; this guide will reveal the top activities, attractions and best things to do in Pohara Beach, including the epic natural wonders and the best places to eat.

Prominent Landmarks in Pohara

The golden sands of Pohara Beach are the highlight of our visits to the area. The beautiful sea view and surrounding bushclad mountains are truly divine. 

The shallow, calm waters are great for swimming during high tide. When the tide is low, it’s a fantastic flat beach for a 3.5km walk. Alternatively, you can just relax and soak up the sun and the natural surroundings. 

The bay is also excellent for kayaking, fishing, windsurfing and boating activities.

The beach oozes tranquillity and is a significant landmark deserving of exploration. 

On top of that, the Abel Tasman National Park is reached within 30 minutes and is one of the main attractions of the Nelson Tasman region. The emerald-green forests and secluded bays offer endless possibilities for outdoor adventures.

According to the Maori Dictionary, the word Pohara means “to be poor, hard up, destitute”. However, Pohara Golden Bay is far from poor, as you will see when you visit and witness the rich landscapes.

The Best Things to Do in Pohara NZ

The Grove Scenic Reserve

The Grove Scenic Reserve, with its lush forests and serene walking trails, offers a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature. 

The surreal walk features a canopy of native trees and flora, moss-covered rocks, limestone outcrops, and a chance to spot native New Zealand birds. 

The Grove Scenic Reserve also provides breathtaking ocean views from its lookout point.

The towering rocky outcrops and the lush nature make this short 20-minute walk one of the top things to do in Pohara.

Labyrinth Rocks

Explore the mysterious Labyrinth Rocks in Takaka for another easy, short walk. 

This geological wonder boasts a natural maze and limestone outcrops. It’s a fantastic destination for a leisurely walk, sparking the imagination with its unique rock formations and providing an intriguing experience for all ages.

Takaka Village

Pohara to Takaka Village is just a 10-minute drive, so you can easily access the Golden Bay shops and cafes. 

Takaka Village reflects the bohemian spirit of the region. Explore local shops and galleries, and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and crafts scene. 

Also, if you time your visit for a Saturday, you can make it to the Takaka Village Market. The Golden Bay market is a lively gathering spot for fresh organic produce, homemade treats, local arts and crafts, and live music showcasing the region’s artistic essence. 

Wainui Falls

One of our favourite things to do in Pohara is the scenic adventure to Wainui Falls, a stunning Abel Tasman National Park waterfall. A moderate hike through picturesque landscapes leads to the falls, where you can witness an awe-inspiring waterfall and capture stunning images.

Swimming is available in Wainui Falls’ freshwater pools, and there is seating along the trail so you can sit and admire the lush forest.

For detailed information on Wainui Falls, including pictures of the walk, please read our story on the walk to Wainui Falls.

Go to a Golden Bay Distillery

Satisfy your taste buds by visiting Kiwi Spirits Distillery in nearby Motupipi, where you can enjoy the local flavours and experience the craft of local spirits.

Tasting sessions offer a delightful opportunity to explore some uniquely flavoured liqueurs and their gins, vodkas, and whiskey.

Tastings are complimentary with a bottle purchase, allowing you to take home a taste of Golden Bay.

Pohara Beach Top 10 Holiday Park

Experience the ultimate seaside retreat at this Pohara Beach holiday park. This coastal haven provides a range of accommodation options, from campsites to cabins. 

We’ve stayed in both their waterfront cabins as well as the beachfront camping. The Top 10 Pohara Beach New Zealand is one of the best things to do in Pohara and a perfect base for your Golden Bay adventures.

Enjoy beachside activities, stunning sunsets on the Pohara beachfront, and the relaxed atmosphere of this Golden Bay holiday park.

Pohara Beach Top 10 Holiday Park, Abel Tasman Drive.

Go to Aroha Health Spa Pohara

Unwind and rejuvenate at Aroha Health Spa, located just across from the Pohara Top 10 Holiday Park. 

Indulge in massages, facials and wellness experiences. The Pohara Spa’s tranquil ambience and skilled therapists ensure a relaxing escape, allowing you to pamper yourself before returning to the beach.   

Beach Hopping to Nearby Tata Beach and Ligar Reserve

Explore the neighbouring beaches of Tata Beach and Ligar Bay. These pristine coastal gems offer golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for water activities. 

Whether you’re into sunbathing, swimming, picnicking or beachcombing, these destinations provide a serene escape.

Additionally, Tata Beach has a boat ramp for boaties, and you can find Golden Bay Kayaks conveniently located here. Rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for your own use, or go on a guided tour to explore the wonders of this stunning location.

Visit Abel Tasman Monument

Along the drive from Pohara to Ligar Bay, discover the historical significance of the Abel Tasman Monument. 

In a picturesque location, this monument commemorates the first European explorer, Abel Tasman, to reach New Zealand. Take a short 3-5 minute walk and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Coastal Drive to Wainui Bay

Starting from Pohara Beach, you can enjoy a 15-minute drive along a picturesque coastal route that will take you to Tata Beach and Ligar Bay, followed by Wainui Bay Golden Bay.

Keep following the road and you’ll arrive at the entrance to Abel Tasman National Park. This road also leads to Wainui Falls.

The scenic coastal drive from Pohara to Wainui Bay passes rocky outcrops, Port Tarakohe Marina and other picturesque spots along the way. 

Revel in the breathtaking views of the coastline, where each turn offers a photo-worthy moment. This drive captures the core of Golden Bay’s coastal beauty.

Join a Kayak Tour at Tata Bay 

Embark on a kayaking adventure from Tata Bay to Abel Tasman National Park. 

You can join a guided tour for a comprehensive experience or opt for an independent trip to explore the bay at your own pace.

Experience the Incredible Golden Bay sunsets

If you’re wondering what to do in Pohara in the early evening, don’t miss the sunsets.

Even if you’re not staying in the area, stick around for a Pohara Beach Golden Bay sunset. The sunsets we have seen in the bay are some of the most stunning sunsets we have seen on New Zealand’s South Island. 

Go Golfing at Takaka Golf Club

Enjoy a round of golf with a sea view at the Golden Bay golf course.

Located just minutes away at Clifton, this golf course, surrounded by beautiful ocean landscapes, offers a challenging yet relaxing experience.

Eat at Pohara Restaurants

Pohara food options range from local flavours to international dishes. You can unwind and enjoy your meal in the relaxed Pohara restaurants, or if you prefer more options, head out to Takaka, where you can find many restaurants and cafes.

Best Pohara Restaurants

Molly B’s

For a relaxed publike atmosphere, our favourite Golden Bay restaurant is Molly B’s. We love the vibe created by locals and visitors alike.

Furthermore, they frequently have live music performances.

The garden setting allows you to enjoy the outdoors and feast on fresh seafood and other delectable dishes. From succulent fish and chips to gourmet burgers, this eatery is one of our favourite things to do in Pohara.

Ratanui Lodge Restaurant & Bar

Discover culinary excellence at Ratanui Lodge Restaurant & Bar. This elegant establishment combines locally sourced ingredients with creative flair. Open for breakfast and dinner, you can dine in style as you enjoy dishes crafted with an emphasis on New Zealand seasonal flavours. 

The menu boasts a variety of options, from mouthwatering venison and pork belly to truffle mushroom risotto and catch of the day, including salmon caviar. They also have an extensive wine and cocktail list.

Al Forno Pizza

For a casual and charming setting, visit Al Forno Pizza. The cafe’s outdoor seating offers a memorable outdoor dining experience, creating a perfect spot to relax after exploring the fascinating Pohara attractions.  

The simple yet tasty menu offering a selection of authentic Italian woodfired pizzas makes it a go-to spot for a laid-back meal. They also provide dairy-free and gluten-free options. 

Al Forno Pizza is open from 5 pm to 8 pm from Thursday to Sunday.

How to Get To Pohara Golden Bay

You can catch a regional flight from Wellington to Takaka Airport or drive across the notorious Takaka Hill to get there. Takaka to Pohara is 10 minutes drive.

The scenic drive to Golden Bay offers breathtaking landscapes of the Nelson Tasman Region and Tasman Bay. The trip will take you past some of the gorgeous beach suburbs of Nelson, such as Mapua and Motueka. 

The Takaka Hill drive is a 1-hour drive from Motueka to Takaka. The long, windy drive to Golden Bay is one of its main attractions, yet it is also what keeps many visitors away.

If you are coming from Nelson, Pohara to Nelson is 1 hour and 45 minutes drive.

From Picton to Pohara, it is 3 hours and 40 minutes drive.

Other Things to Do in Pohara

Not far from Pohara, there are many fascinating places to visit that are considered Golden Bay’s highlights. These include Pupu Springs and Anotoki Salmon. Further afield, you can visit Golden Bay’s famous beach, Wharariki Beach, or Farewell Spit.

Check out our story for more detailed information and the highlights of Golden Bay.

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