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Beach · Nelson, Nelson
Tāhunanui Beach
Wide sandy beach on Tasman Bay, about 5 km from Nelson centre, with dunes, lawns, picnic areas and shallow water at low tide.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Tāhunanui Beach
Tāhunanui is Nelson’s urban beach, about 5 km from the centre, facing Tasman Bay. The sandy strip is wide and at low tide the sea retreats a long way, leaving a large shallow area where families walk and children play. A sand-renourishment project helped rebuild the dunes.
Behind the beach are lawns, picnic areas, courts and a playground, plus the Tāhunanui neighbourhood with accommodation and eateries. On windy days the beach attracts kitesurfers and windsurfers.
Sunset is the busiest time: the sun sets over the bay behind the mountains on the Abel Tasman side, when skies are clear. The airport sits beside the beach, and the road from it leads to Richmond and Motueka.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 hour to half a day.
Best time
December to March for swimming; year-round for walking. At sunset, with clear skies, the light falls across the bay and the mountains on the far side.
How to get there
It’s about 5 km from Nelson town centre via Rocks Road, which runs along the harbour. There is a local bus and parking at the beach.
Tip
Tasman Bay water is cold outside summer. Check the tide table: at low tide the sea retreats far from the dry sand.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Tāhunanui Beach
Is Tāhunanui Beach far from central Nelson?
About 5 km, roughly a 10-minute drive via Rocks Road. There is local bus service.
Can you swim at Tāhunanui Beach?
Yes, especially in summer, from December to March. The water is shallow for a good distance at low tide and cold outside the season.
What is at Tāhunanui Beach besides sand?
Lawns, picnic areas, courts and a playground, plus accommodations and food outlets in the surrounding neighbourhood.