Discover Ship Creek Beach
Ship Creek Beach is one of three superb short walks at Ship Creek in South Westland in the South Island. The other two are the Dune Lake Walk and the Swamp Forest Walk.
The beach s a stunning surf beach known for its vibrant coloured istones and driftwood. One of the main attractions is the chance to see Hector's dolphins (tutumairekurai) frolicking in the surf. It is a rare spot where you can observe these dolphins from the shore without needing a boat.
Exploring the Beach
The beach stretches approximately 6 km to the Waita River mouth, providing ample space for a leisurely walk. You can access the beach directly from the car park on a boardwalk over the dunes, or via the nearby visitor centre and viewing tower. You can also follow the Dune Lake Walk, which goes south through the dunes and bush. From the dune lake, there is a short walk to the beach.
At the north end of the beach, Ship Creek flows from a lagoon into the surf at Tauparikākā Point for a picturesque setting.
How to Get There
Ship Creek Beach is next to State Highway 6, 17.4 km, and a 12-minute drive north of Haast.
Other nearby places to check out include Jackson Bay, the Haast River, Lake Moeraki and Lake Paringa.
