Marahau Beach Camp is a classic Kiwi camping ground at 9 Franklin Street in Mārahau, the village at the Abel Tasman National Park gateway. The camp is a few steps from Marahau beach and next to the departure point for sea kayaking and water taxi trips into the park. The website says it is a certified zero carbon business. It has 55 powered sites for tents, campervans and caravans, set among mature trees, all close to the central amenities block. There are also five cabins, each one room sleeping up to five people in double and single bunks.
The Backpacker Lodge is a separate, fully contained building with one private double room and two dorm rooms, sleeping five and eight. It can be booked for groups of up to 15. Facilities across the camp include Wi-Fi, barbecues, laundry, a kitchen and car parking. A waterfront restaurant, a beer garden and a convenience store are next door. Check-in is at the Abel Tasman Centre on the Mārahau waterfront. Our pick in Mārahau for a base before a day on the water.