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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for exploring

Kakanui Beaches Campbells Bay and All Day Bay
Best Time
Best for exploring

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

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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
Campbells Bay
Catch the waves or watch skilled surfers ride the swells at this popular surf spot.
Driftwood Shelter Fun
Kakanui Beaches
Discover and play in unique driftwood shelters, a creative and fun feature for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tides are Key for Exploration
Beach Amenities & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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
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
What People Dislike
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
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring All Day Bay: A Tidal Adventure
Many visitors appreciate the unspoiled nature of All Day Bay, describing it as a 'beautiful place' with 'fantastic scenery'. 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
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. 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.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit