kayaking
Stay beside the Queen Charlotte Track in the Beautiful Marlborough Sounds
Tawa Cove is located in Endeavour Inlet, approximately 13 Km and 4-4.5 hours' walk from Ship Cove along the Queen Charlotte Track.
Whether you're walking the track, exploring the Sounds by kayak or paddleboard, fishing, swimming or simply enjoying the peace & quiet, there's plenty to do - or not do - at Tawa Cove Cabins.
Walking the Queen Charlotte Track
From Ship Cove, the track winds through native forest and along the beautiful Marlborough Sounds before reaching Endeavour Inlet.
Tawa Cove Cabins is approximately 13km and 4-4.5 hours' walk from Ship Cove, making Tawa Cove Cabins an ideal first-night stop for walkers heading south from Ship Cove.
Arrive at Ship Cove by water taxi from Picton, walk the track to Tawa Cove Cabins and enjoy a peaceful night beside the water before continuing your journey.
The Queen Charlotte Track spans 73km, beginning at Ship Cove/Meretoto and ending at Anakiwa. Typically, visitors either walk or bike in a single direction, from Ship Cove. Completing the track on foot requires at least three nights and four days.
A moderate fitness level is necessary, though the initial segment from Ship Cove to Punga Cove is the most leisurely and easiest. Many opt to walk just the two-day segment, which is a popular alternative to traversing the entire track.
** The access track down to Tawa Cove is steep in places & there are many steps coming into our property. A reasonable level of fitness is required.
Suggested itinerary: On Day 1, hike to Tawa Cove and spend the night in a cosy cabin. The next morning, embark on a 5.5 hour walk to the Punga Cove / Camp Bay side. Consider stopping at Furneaux Lodge for brunch, a 1.5 hr walk from Tawa Cove on the trail. You can either stay on the Punga / Camp Bay side or schedule a water taxi pickup back to Picton around 3 pm.
Alternatively, spend two nights at Tawa and enjoy the Ship Cove to Punga section of the track.
Day 1: Take a water taxi to Ship Cove, then hike to Tawa Cove (4.5 hours).
Day 2: In the morning, we can drop you off at Punga Cove for a return hike to Tawa for your second night.
Day 3: Arrange for a morning pickup by your water taxi company at our jetty, returning to Picton.
***IMPORTANT*** Please note that we offer transfers to Punga Cove only & for stays of two nights or more. Our transfers are subject to availability and must be discussed and arranged with us before booking. For all other transfers, these need to be arranged with you water taxi provider.
Comprehensive information about the track is available online, including the following website:
Kayaking & Paddleboarding in the Marlborough Sounds
Explore the beautiful waters of Endeavour Inlet from Tawa Cove.
Take one of our kayaks or paddleboards out onto the sheltered waters and explore the coastline, coves and surrounding native bush at your own pace.
Pack a Tawa Cove picnic lunch, finding a quiet spot along the shoreline to stop, relax and enjoy the beautiful Marlborough Sounds.
Kayaks & Paddleboards are complimentary for all staying guests & are available on a first-come, first-served basis. They cannot be reserved in advance.
Swim, Relax & Unwind
Sometimes the best thing to do at Tawa Cove is nothing at all.
Take a refreshing swim in the sheltered waters of Endeavour inlet, relax on the waterfront or unwind in our hot tub while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
After a day walking the Queen Charlotte Track or exploring the Marlborough Sounds by kayak, settle in and enjoy the tranquillity of Tawa Cove. with native bush, water and birdsong all around you, it's an easy place to slow down and switch off.
Fishing
Bring your fishing gear & try your luck from a kayak or off the jetty. We have some basic fishing gear available for guest to use, as well as bait to purchase.
Some of our guests are also use Tawa Cove as a base for group fishing trips further afield in their own vessel. (we have one mooring available to reserve)
Please note; we do not offer boat fishing charters
Plan your Stay at Tawa Cove
Whether you're walking the Queen Charlotte Track, exploring the Marlborough Sounds by kayak, enjoying a picnic by the water or simply taking some time to relax, Tawa Cove is a beautiful place to slow down and enjoy the Sounds.
With meals available, complimentary kayaks and paddleboards, a waterfront hot tub and peaceful accommodation surrounded by native bush, you can make your stay as active or relaxed as you like.
Ready to stay at Tawa Cove?
Choose from our three private timber cabins for two adults, or The shanty for up to 6 adults.