A gentle, guided sea-kayak outing from Marahau that visits sea caves, nesting cormorants and the iconic Split Apple Rock. Ideal for families and paddlers seeking an easy, scenic introduction to Abel Tasman’s coastline.
A gentle, guided sea-kayak outing from Marahau that visits sea caves, nesting cormorants and the iconic Split Apple Rock. Ideal for families and paddlers seeking an easy, scenic introduction to Abel Tasman’s coastline.
You push off from a narrow, golden cove at Marahau, and the Tasman Sea immediately sets the pace—gentle swells rocking the kayak as the coast opens into sculpted limestone bluffs and low, scrubby headlands.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Kahu Kayaks Limited · Marahau, Tasman
You push off from a narrow, golden cove at Marahau, and the Tasman Sea immediately sets the pace—gentle swells rocking the kayak as the coast opens into sculpted limestone bluffs and low, scrubby headlands.
Guided by local paddlers, the three-hour Family Cruiser is paced for families and first-timers: easy strokes, steady safety briefings, and plenty of stops. The route takes you past sea caves and the nesting perches of black shag cormorants, then circles the world-famous Split Apple Rock—two halves of granite that dared to split, now caught in the surf like a giant, seaside sculpture.
Geology here is blunt and readable: coastal granite and erosion-carved cliffs record millions of years of uplift and sea action. Māori used these coves for seasonal fishing and pā sites; today small bays still show middens and shell deposits where people once gathered kai.
Expect tactile detail: salt wind on your lips, gulls arguing overhead, and the guide pointing out tidal pockets where starfish cling. The trip is deliberately relaxed—designed to let kids and older paddlers stay comfortable while seeing notable features of Abel Tasman’s coastline.
Practical guidance: wear quick-dry clothes, a hat and SPF, and bring a small dry bag for your camera; the guides supply kayaks, lifejackets and spray skirts. Launching and landing happen from sandy beaches with short walks to the water, so basic mobility is useful. If weather turns, operators cancel for safety—check forecasts and book morning slots for calmer seas and softer light.
Yes—this tour is designed for families; guides tailor pace and instruction for kids, though children should be comfortable sitting in a kayak and following basic safety directions.
No prior experience is required; guides provide a safety briefing and basic stroke coaching before launch.
Operators will cancel or reschedule if conditions are unsafe—check the local forecast and the provider’s 24-hour cancellation policy for refunds.
Yes, approved buoyancy aids and basic safety equipment (including spray skirts) are supplied by the operator.
Kahu Kayaks Limited operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.


You push off from a narrow, golden cove at Marahau, and the Tasman Sea immediately sets the pace—gentle swells rocking the kayak as the coast opens into sculpted limestone bluffs and low, scrubby headlands.
You push off from a narrow, golden cove at Marahau, and the Tasman Sea immediately sets the pace—gentle swells rocking the kayak as the coast opens into sculpted limestone bluffs and low, scrubby headlands.
Guided by local paddlers, the three-hour Family Cruiser is paced for families and first-timers: easy strokes, steady safety briefings, and plenty of stops. The route takes you past sea caves and the nesting perches of black shag cormorants, then circles the world-famous Split Apple Rock—two halves of granite that dared to split, now caught in the surf like a giant, seaside sculpture.
Geology here is blunt and readable: coastal granite and erosion-carved cliffs record millions of years of uplift and sea action. Māori used these coves for seasonal fishing and pā sites; today small bays still show middens and shell deposits where people once gathered kai.
Expect tactile detail: salt wind on your lips, gulls arguing overhead, and the guide pointing out tidal pockets where starfish cling. The trip is deliberately relaxed—designed to let kids and older paddlers stay comfortable while seeing notable features of Abel Tasman’s coastline.
Practical guidance: wear quick-dry clothes, a hat and SPF, and bring a small dry bag for your camera; the guides supply kayaks, lifejackets and spray skirts. Launching and landing happen from sandy beaches with short walks to the water, so basic mobility is useful. If weather turns, operators cancel for safety—check forecasts and book morning slots for calmer seas and softer light.