
Spectacular subtropical region of the North Island of New Zealand, made up of 144 subtropical islands, beaches with turquoise waters, rich marine life and Maori and colonial history.
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Todo lo que necesitas saber sobre Bay of Islands
Tipo
island destination
Extensión
80 km
Estancia recomendada
3 días
Región
Northland
The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand's most iconic coastal and historic destinations. Located in the Northland region, this bay encompasses 144 subtropical islands, coves of golden sand and crystal clear waters inhabited by dolphins, penguins and billfish. It is the birthplace of modern New Zealand, home to the historic Waitangi precinct, where the treaty between Maori chiefs and the British Crown was signed in 1840. In addition to its cultural heritage, the region offers scenic cruises, internationally renowned wreck diving, coastal hiking trails and charming fishing villages such as Russell and Paihia.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds, New Zealand's most significant historic site, surrounded by gardens, Maori maraes and museums.
Cruise to the 'Hole in the Rock' (Motukōkako), sailing through the impressive natural arch carved by the ocean on Piercy Island.
Russell (Kororāreka), historic seafaring village with 19th-century wooden buildings, accessible by scenic ferry from Paihia.
Urupukapuka Island, the largest island in the archipelago, perfect for hiking, snorkeling and picnics on deserted beaches.
Diving in the Rainbow Warrior wreck, the historic Greenpeace flagship sunk in Matauri Bay transformed into an artificial reef.
Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa) in Kerikeri, a breathtaking 27-meter waterfall accessible by a shady path.
Descubre las increíbles costas y paisajes marinos de este destino
A spectacular and remote crescent-shaped bay with golden sand and crystal clear wave-free waters, frequented by dolphins.
Fine-grained golden sand.
Extremely calm, transparent and sky blue waters.
Very sheltered and safe beach for swimming.
Access by secondary paved/gravel road or by boat from Paihia.
Small parking lot near the trail entrance area.
There are no shops or restaurants. It is necessary to bring provisions.
Virgin environment without commercial services.
Famous white sand beach and turquoise waters located north of the bay, a sacred Maori enclave and access point to the wreck of the Rainbow Warrior.
Fine soft white sand.
Crystal clear open sea waters, excellent for swimming, light surfing and diving.
Good safety for swimming near the shore.
Easy access by car along a panoramic road.
Ample parking right on the beach.
Small tent/kiosk at local campsite.
Camping, public bathrooms, showers and boat launching area.
An idyllic island beach surrounded by green hills, exclusive boat access and a center for ecotourism activities.
Fine golden sand of organic origin.
Calm emerald waters and ideal for snorkeling.
Very safe for swimming and paddle surfing.
Accessible only by passenger boat (regular ferry from Paihia) or private boat.
No vehicle access.
Otehei Bay Cafe & Bar located in the main bay of the island.
Department of Conservation (DOC) information center, kayak rentals and restrooms.
A beautiful white sand beach facing north of the town of Russell, sheltered from the prevailing winds.
Fine textured white sand.
Serene sea with warm waters, ideal for families and calm swimming.
Safe bathing area all year round.
15 minute walk or 3 minute drive from central Russell.
Free parking along the beach access road.
Cafes and restaurants available in the nearby village of Russell.
Public bathrooms, benches and shaded area under trees.
Bay of Islands cuisine combines the extraordinary fruits of the Pacific seafood with the subtropical crops of Northland, known for its fields of avocados, macadamias, citrus fruits and local boutique wines.
Local oysters with a creamy texture and intense sea flavor, served naturally with shallots and apple cider vinegar.
Typical New Zealand giant mussels steamed with white wine, garlic and fresh herbs.
Fresh fish of the day breaded and fried, served in a paper container to enjoy next to the dock.
Traditional Maori feast with meats and tubers (Kūmara) cooked slowly underground with hot stones.
Warm climate wines produced in small vineyards in the region with great personality.
Refreshing blonde beers brewed by local microbreweries like Bay of Islands Brewing Co.
Natural juices made with oranges, lemons and tangerines grown in the region.
Pure honey produced by bees from the native mānuka flower, world famous for its medicinal properties.
Traditional New Zealand vanilla ice cream with crunchy toffee caramel pieces.
Evaluación completa basada en múltiples criterios de calidad
"A multitude of coves and islands of white and golden sand framed by leafy pōhutukawa trees with red flowers."
"Historic heart of New Zealand. Exceptional immersion in the country's Maori and colonial history."
"Intercity buses connect the main towns, but a boat or car is required to explore the attractions."
"Well-surfaced scenic roads linking Paihia, Kerikeri, Waitangi and the ferry ports."
"Consolidated tourist destination. Catamaran cruises and seaplane flights have medium-high prices."
"Excellent for children thanks to its beaches with calm waters, encounters with marine fauna and interactive parks."
"High quality fresh seafood (Rock Oysters, mussels), Kerikeri citrus and local Northland wine."
"Strong focus on marine mammal protection, island pest eradication and regenerative ecotourism."
"A must on any itinerary through the North Island of New Zealand."
"Mecca for sailing, sea kayaking, wreck diving, hiking and deep-sea sport fishing."
"Extremely pure waters and virgin islands free of waste thanks to environmental care."
"Peaceful region, very hospitable and with very high levels of security for the traveler."
"Very picturesque coastal towns full of history, wooden piers, flower gardens and coastal cafes."
"Sublime combination of green islands dotted in a turquoise blue sea and sheltered bays."
"Bottlenose and common dolphins, whales, blue penguins, rays and colorful subtropical fish."
"A must-see aquatic and historic paradise with a relaxed and vibrant subtropical atmosphere."
🌟 Destino Extraordinario
💭 "A must-see aquatic and historic paradise with a relaxed and vibrant subtropical atmosphere."

📍 230 km • ⏱️ 3.5 hours by car / 40 min by regional flight
📍 70 km • ⏱️ 1 hour by car
📍 110 km • ⏱️ 1.5 hours by car
Descubre todo lo que Bay of Islands tiene para ofrecer
Explora los encantadores pueblos que dan vida y carácter a esta costa
The main tourist and logistics center of the Bay of Islands. A lively coastal town from whose port most ferries, excursions and cruises depart.
The first capital and first permanent European settlement of New Zealand. A picturesque town full of historic charm, old churches and palm tree-lined promenades.
The quintessential national historic sanctuary of New Zealand, located just 2 km north of Paihia across a river bridge.
Located towards the interior of the bay, it is a prosperous town famous for its citrus orchards, art galleries and colonial stone buildings.
Sumérgete en aventuras únicas y descubre el mar desde otra perspectiva
Tour the 144 islands by catamaran to the tip of Cape Brett to cross the legendary Motukōkako rock passage.
International dives on the historic Greenpeace ship that sank in Matauri Bay, today covered in colorful anemones and marine fauna.
Guided routes exploring sea caves, rock arches and bays inaccessible by land.
Excursions dedicated to the sighting of bottlenose dolphins, killer whales, Bryde's whales and native seabirds.
Descubre los secretos mejor guardados y rincones únicos que pocos conocen
An imposing marine arch carved by wind and water on an island of vertical cliffs 148 meters above the ocean.
Accessible only by sea cruise or helicopter excursion.
Iconic island famous for its two twin circular lagoons separated by a narrow sand bar, with a sensational panoramic viewpoint.
Regular stop on private cruises and boat tours from Paihia.
A dazzling 27-meter waterfall falls over a basalt cave surrounded by lush native kauri forest.
Very easy 10-minute walk from the parking lot or a 1.5-hour trail from Kerikeri.
Conecta con la naturaleza y descubre paisajes únicos que te dejarán sin aliento
One of the most challenging and spectacular coastal walks in the North (16km), concluding at the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse overlooking the Hole in the Rock.
Flat 6km trail links Paihia Pier to Waitangi Historic Precinct and continues along a mangrove estuary to Haruru Falls.
Network of trails along the ridges of Urupukapuka Island connecting ancient protected Māori sites (Pā) with 360-degree views of the entire bay.
Events focusing on Maori traditions, competitive sailing and coastal food festivals.
New Zealand's most important national holiday, celebrated with Maori ceremonies, waka (traditional canoe) parades, music and official speeches at Waitangi.
The largest and most important sailing and cruising boat regatta in New Zealand and the South Pacific.
Three-day festival with over 50 bands and artists performing at venues in Paihia and Russell.
Descubre los lugares más fascinantes e imperdibles de esta costa
The cultural and historical birthplace of the modern New Zealand nation. Includes guided tours, Maori cultural performances (Haka) and museums.
It is recommended to purchase a two-day pass ticket to enjoy calmly.
A high-flowing horseshoe-shaped waterfall where the Waitangi River meets the ocean tides.
It is possible to rent kayaks to paddle to the very base of the waterfall.
The oldest preserved European architectural complex in New Zealand, situated in a beautiful riverside setting.
It has a vintage souvenir shop and a very picturesque garden cafe.
Cada punto de interés tiene su propia historia y magia única
11-19°C
15-25°C
12-21°C
8-16°C
Known locally as the 'Winterless North', it enjoys a warm subtropical climate. Dry summers ideal for sailing and swimming; Mild winters with moderate but pleasant rains.
Very pleasant blue-green waters. They vary between 15-16°C in winter and 21-23°C in midsummer (January to March).
Fast tidal currents in the channels between the outer islands and Cape Brett. Caution with kayaks without a guide.
MedioUnderwater rocks and reefs near the islands. They require attention during navigation in pleasure boats.
BajoTodo lo que necesitas saber para planificar tu visita
From November to April. During the Australian summer (December to February) the temperatures are ideal for swimming, the days are long and sunny, and the pōhutukawa bloom on the coast.
Respect marine conservation regulations: keep a safe distance from dolphins and do not try to touch wildlife. At Waitangi, please pay due respect to sacred Maori sites (tapu).
Wi-Fi available in Paihia, Kerikeri centres, public bookstores and i-SITE information centres.
The UV index in New Zealand is very high. Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen even on cloudy days.
If you rent a kayak or small boat, always check the tide and wind forecast before heading out into the outer bay.
There is a vehicle ferry between Opua and Russell (Kapai) that avoids a detour by road of more than 45 minutes.
Take the sunset ferry from Paihia to Russell to dine on fresh seafood on the waterfront at the historic Duke of Marlborough hotel.
Remove your shoes before entering Maori meeting houses (Wharenui) and carefully follow the guide's instructions at pōwhiri ceremonies.
Playas, bases y planes para aprovechar el litoral

New Zealand's most important national holiday, celebrated with Maori ceremonies, waka (traditional canoe) parades, music

The largest and most important sailing and cruising boat regatta in New Zealand and the South Pacific.

Three-day festival with over 50 bands and artists performing at venues in Paihia and Russell.
Litorales con un ambiente parecido
Más playas, pueblos y destinos del entorno
Actualizamos esta guía con datos geográficos y de la comunidad para que puedas descubrir con confianza.