Ocean Kayaking in Abel Tasman

Secluded beach on Adele island in Abel Tasman Park, with our Kayak beached in the distance.

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The next morning we rented some sea kayaks, and paddled several miles across the bay out to some wild islands, stopping on the ocean side of Adele Island at a secluded beach, and had a sandwich and some lemonade we packed. Then crossed back to mainland of Able Tasman, and toured along the idealic beaches nestled in the cliffs and jungle weaving through the rocks with our kayaks. Weird rock formations and caves along the cliffs. It was a long hard trek against the wind out to the islands, but easier returning with the wind to our backs. The water here is extremely clear, and many very shallow areas. Even when driving out to the park, we saw huge bays, ½ mile across, completely empty of water, just sandy expanses – the tide here is huge, I here some places as much as 18 ft between low and high tide, combined with a very slight grade, makes incredible coastal tidal areas. We unfortunately didn’t see any of the rumored penguins, but saw large rays in the sand whiz past under the kayak (Thinking Steve Erwin). We got some sunburn even though coated with sunscreen. Low tide on our return completely changed the coastline. We had some real fresh cream (typically only get ½ & ½ in US grocery stores), delicious with cookies! Great White Cloudy Wheat Beer was another winning brew.

A second night at the chalet made a comparatively leisurely day, not needing to pack up and head out again just yet. The pace, physical activity, and light or skipping meals is going to whoop us into shape!