Top Things to do in South Island
What to do and see in South Island, New Zealand: The Best Beaches
Discover the best top things to do in South Island, New Zealand including Waikouaiti Beach, Purakaunui Bay, Tata Beach, Allans Beach, Sumner Beach (Cave Rock), Corsair Bay, Waimairi Beach, Warrington Beach, Bob’s Bay, Waikuku Beach.
Restaurants in South Island
1. Waikouaiti Beach
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 16 reviews
Reviewed By 40beckye - Dunedin, New Zealand
Love love love this beach. It’s an awesome place to take your furry friend for a nice stroll. The beach is really long (walk all the way to entrance to Karitane estuary) so you can take a long walk should you so wish. Beautiful outlook towards Karitane near the south of the beach. Often horses training on the beach so make sure you have a lead for your dog just in case. Surf is usually pretty gentle so can swim safely (while not patrolled). Family friendly!
2. Purakaunui Bay
3. Tata Beach
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By C5804LOterrim - South Africa, null
Went to the beach a couple of weeks ago on a good day. It was absolutely stunning. Went again today after major storms. There was a lot of drift wood and debris on the beach which spoilt it and the water wasn't as blue. Went for a kayak trip and was amazing. Hard work but fun. Do recommend it. Would be even nicer when hot and swimable. The water was pretty cold.
4. Allans Beach
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
Reviewed By 422iana - Dunedin, New Zealand
This is Dunedin's hidden gem! Off the tourist route, but you are likely to see sea lions in this area. Walk all the way down the beach to the estuary. You can also see penguins are the right time. Please read the signs and don't get close to these animals. So many tourists get right next to them and they are big animals and if provoked could cause damage.
5. Sumner Beach (Cave Rock)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 326 reviews
Reviewed By Juliea1928 - Tauranga, New Zealand
Easy to get to by bus or car the beach is just lovely and takes you back in time. There is a lovely big rock you can walk through on low tide which is amazing. Quant shops nearby and a fun place to visit
6. Corsair Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 60 reviews
Reviewed By 194fayh - Christchurch, New Zealand
This beach is very safe for all ages to swim at. Also has a wonderful playground and picnic areas . Secluded - turnoff main road this bay is on two levels well off the road way so safe for little ones too.
7. Waimairi Beach
8. Warrington Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
9. Bob’s Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
Reviewed By jasdombo - Wellington, New Zealand
Take the lower track to Bobs Bay, it's right on the waterfront, really well constructed track and beutiful.
10. Waikuku Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7 reviews
Reviewed By rachelb161 - Christchurch, New Zealand
We stayed at the holiday camp, by the beach. Very clean and very quiet, although it was not during the holiday season. Beautiful beach with easy access. We also visited the local café, excellent coffee and a good selection of homemade food, including delicious muffins. There is also a selection of take away food, such as fish and chips. Ice creams would also be popular on hotter days.
