Kakanui Beaches Campbells Bay and All Day Bay
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Kakanui Beaches Campbells Bay and All Day Bay

4.6
·61 reviews·Kakanui, New Zealand

Discover Kakanui Beaches: a pristine stretch of coastline with soft sands, surf breaks at Campbells Bay, and the scenic All Day Bay walk.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide mornings

Best for exploring

CrowdLow
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Kakanui Beaches Campbells Bay and All Day Bay

Kakanui Beaches Campbells Bay and All Day Bay

Best Time

Low tide mornings

Best for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Kakanui Beaches: a pristine stretch of coastline with soft sands, surf breaks at Campbells Bay, and the scenic All Day Bay walk.

4.6
(61 reviews)

"Beautiful place, fantastic scenery, absolutely gorgeous beach. Watched some surfers and everyone was really friendly."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check the Tides First! :ocean:

Low tide is essential for exploring All Day Bay and the full beach. High tide limits access.

Pram Friendly? Maybe Not :stroller:

Soft sand can be tough for prams, especially on longer walks. Consider a carrier for little ones.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

All Day Bay Coastal Walk

All Day Bay Coastal Walk

Southern end of Kakanui Beaches

A scenic 30-minute walk (one way) at low tide, revealing stunning coastal views and a secluded bay.

Surfer's Paradise

Surfer's Paradise

Campbells Bay

Catch the waves or watch skilled surfers ride the swells at this popular surf spot.

Driftwood Shelter Fun

Driftwood Shelter Fun

Kakanui Beaches

Discover and play in unique driftwood shelters, a creative and fun feature for all ages.

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Planning Your Visit

Tides are Key for Exploration

Check the tide times before you go! Low tide is best for exploring the full stretch of Kakanui Beaches, including the walk down All Day Bay. High tide can make some areas inaccessible and isn't ideal for prams.

Beach Amenities & Access

New toilets and changing rooms make Kakanui Beaches more comfortable. The beach offers easy access, but be mindful of the soft sand, which might be challenging for prams on longer walks.

Best Times

When
Low tide mornings
Why
Best for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Sunny beach time
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@ramaluxuryshopglow
877 likes • 4.1K views

Check the Tides First! :ocean:

Low tide is essential for exploring All Day Bay and the full beach. High tide limits access.

Pram Friendly? Maybe Not :stroller:

Soft sand can be tough for prams, especially on longer walks. Consider a carrier for little ones.

Friendly Locals & Surfers :wave:

Enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and watch the surfers in action.

Clean Facilities Available :toilet:

New toilets and changing rooms offer convenience for beachgoers.

Tips

from all over the internet

Check the Tides First! :ocean:

Low tide is essential for exploring All Day Bay and the full beach. High tide limits access.

Pram Friendly? Maybe Not :stroller:

Soft sand can be tough for prams, especially on longer walks. Consider a carrier for little ones.

Friendly Locals & Surfers :wave:

Enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and watch the surfers in action.

Clean Facilities Available :toilet:

New toilets and changing rooms offer convenience for beachgoers.

Unspoiled Natural Beauty :sparkles:

Experience a clean, beautiful, and relatively untouched stretch of coastline.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(61 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unspoiled beauty and clean, soft sand of Kakanui Beaches, Campbells Bay, and All Day Bay. The new facilities are a welcome addition, and the friendly atmosphere, especially among surfers, is often highlighted. The coastal walk to All Day Bay is a popular feature, though tide times are crucial for full enjoyment.

"After visiting Oamaru drove out to the beach - I was not disappointed. Beautifully clean and unspoiled stretch of coastline."

Julie Clarke

"Beautiful place, fantastic scenery, absolutely gorgeous beach. Watched some surfers and everyone was really friendly"

Stacey Forbes

"Was visiting mum so we took the dog to the beach for a walk. Lovely place, great beach. Surfers were out today, too cold for me. Lovely walk."

Carl Hensley

What People Like

Beautiful, unspoiled coastline
Clean and soft sand
Friendly surfer community

What People Dislike

Tide-dependent access
Pram challenges on sand

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kakanui Beaches, including Campbells Bay and All Day Bay, are a short drive from Oamaru. Simply head south on State Highway 1 and follow the signs for Kakanui. The drive is scenic and takes about 15-20 minutes.

Yes, there is parking available near the main access points for Kakanui Beaches. It's generally ample, especially outside of peak holiday times.

Cycling is a great option if you're staying nearby. The roads are generally well-maintained, and you can enjoy the coastal scenery on your way.

Public transport options are limited for direct access to Kakanui Beaches. It's best to have your own vehicle or consider a taxi service from Oamaru.

All Day Bay is best accessed during low tide. There's a specific walking track that leads down to it from the southern end of Kakanui Beaches.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Kakanui Beaches, Campbells Bay, and All Day Bay are free to access. There are no entry fees.

The beaches are open 24/7, as they are natural public spaces. However, amenities like toilets may have specific operating hours.

While there are no designated camping facilities directly on the beach, there are campgrounds and holiday parks in the nearby Oamaru area if you wish to stay overnight.

Dogs are generally allowed on Kakanui Beaches, but it's always a good idea to check local council bylaws for any specific leash requirements or restricted areas.

Access to the beach itself can be challenging due to soft sand. However, the new facilities and pathways leading to the beach are generally accessible.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, swimming, surfing, building sandcastles, and exploring the coastline. The driftwood shelters are also a unique attraction.

Yes, Kakanui Beaches are suitable for swimming, but always be aware of the conditions, especially if there are strong currents or large waves.

You might spot various seabirds along the coast. Surfers are a common sight at Campbells Bay. Keep an eye out for marine life in the rock pools at low tide.

While there are new toilets and changing rooms, dedicated picnic tables or BBQs are not widely advertised. It's best to bring your own picnic if you plan to eat there.

Comfortable beachwear is recommended. If you plan to walk extensively or swim, consider bringing appropriate footwear and a towel.

📸 📸 Photography

The coastal walk to All Day Bay offers dramatic cliff views. Campbells Bay with surfers provides action shots. The unique driftwood shelters also make for interesting compositions.

Sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful golden hour light. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant blue of the ocean and the surfers.

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA) before flying a drone.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing surfers. A polarizing filter can enhance ocean colors.

The driftwood shelters are a unique subject. The interplay of light and shadow on the sand dunes and the rugged coastline can also be very photogenic.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kakanui Beaches offer a fantastic day out for families. The long, soft sand is perfect for building sandcastles and letting kids run free. The driftwood shelters are a unique and engaging play area that children will love exploring.Reddit While the main beach is generally accessible, the walk to All Day Bay might be challenging with a pram due to soft sand, so consider a baby carrier for younger ones.Reddit The new toilet and changing facilities add a layer of convenience for families, making a day at the beach more comfortable.

🏄‍♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts

Campbells Bay is a prime spot for surfers, offering consistent waves that attract a dedicated crowd. Whether you're looking to catch a few breaks or simply enjoy the spectacle of skilled surfers in action, this beach delivers. The friendly atmosphere means you'll likely find a welcoming community of fellow water sports enthusiasts. Remember to check surf reports and be aware of local conditions before heading out.

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Nature Lovers

For those who love a good coastal walk, the All Day Bay trail is a must-do, especially at low tide. The scenic route offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore the rugged coastline. The unspoiled nature of the beaches means you can enjoy a peaceful retreat, observing seabirds and the natural beauty of the area. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the varied terrain.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring All Day Bay: A Tidal Adventure

The walk to All Day Bay is a highlight for many visitors, but it's crucial to time it with the tides. At low tide, the bay reveals a beautiful, expansive stretch of sand and interesting rock formations. This is the perfect time for a leisurely stroll, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the solitude. However, as the tide comes in, the access points can become submerged, making it difficult or impossible to reach. Always check local tide charts before embarking on this walk to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It's also worth noting that the terrain can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended, and it's not the most pram-friendly route.Reddit

Many visitors appreciate the unspoiled nature of All Day Bay, describing it as a 'beautiful place' with 'fantastic scenery'.Reddit The journey itself offers stunning coastal views, making it more than just a destination but an experience. The feeling of discovering a secluded spot, especially after a pleasant walk, adds to its charm. It’s a place where you can truly connect with the natural beauty of the coastline.

Campbells Bay: A Hub for Surfers and Beach Lovers

Campbells Bay is renowned for its surf breaks, attracting both seasoned surfers and those keen to watch the action. The consistent waves make it a popular spot for catching a ride, and the atmosphere is often described as friendly.Reddit Even if you're not a surfer, the energy of the beach is infectious. You can spend hours watching the surfers navigate the swells, or simply relax on the sand and soak up the coastal vibes.

The beach itself is a long, soft sand expanse, perfect for running, playing, or building sandcastles. The presence of driftwood shelters, often created by locals, adds a unique element of fun and creativity for families and children.Reddit These natural play structures offer a chance for imaginative exploration and are a testament to the community's connection with the beach. The combination of good surf, ample space, and quirky features makes Campbells Bay a versatile destination for various beach activities.

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