Abel Tasman NP has a breathtaking mix of rainforest and beach scenery, and while walking the Coastal Track is amazing it's even better to be able to explore the beaches, coves and tidal lagoons and see

some of the local wildlife up close, by kayak.

We booked a One Day Seals & Remote Coast tour which included water taxi into the National Park, paddling instruction and tour, morning tea & lunch, and a friendly knowledgeable guide.

Our trip took in Bark Bay, Tonga Island Marine Reserve, Mosquito Beach, Onetahuti Beach, Tonga Arches, local seal colonies and Shag Harbour - all stunning!

By day's end my shoulders, elbows and wrists hurt, I could barely lift my arms over my head, and I had a slight sunburn...but I’m still dreaming of when I'll be back in Abel Tasman.

TIP: Paddle with your core, not your arms!

Reviewed about 12 years ago and experienced in December 2002