Take a walk in the Bay of Islands!
With over 144 islands surrounded by stunning beaches and coastlines plus a nice hilly landscape, the Bay of Islands is an ideal piece of paradise to wander by foot or by boat. Discover the different types of beauty the Bay of Islands has to offer by swimming in its pristine beaches and walking around the untouched islands.
All the guests for both Day Cruise and Overnight Cruise are picked up from Paihia wharf and brought where The Rock Adventure Cruise is anchored. The adventure starts the moment you come aboard. We introduce guests to various kinds of local activities to make the most of their experience in the great outdoors.
The skipper decides which island and beaches we do our island walks depending on the weather conditions to provide safety for all guests. We usually reach the island of choice by paddleboarding or kayaking, then guided by our crew we walk up to the viewing point to see the stunning 360-degree island view.
THE ROCK'S TOP ISLAND WALK DESTINATIONS
Roberton Island or Motuarohia Island is a gem tucked away in the Bay of Islands, completely unspoilt. It is the closest island to Paihia wharf, known for its picturesque Twin Lagoons — the most photographed view in the Bay of Islands. There's a 15-minute walk uphill that leads to the top where you can see a breathtaking panoramic view.
Stingray Bay
Another island worth the extra cardio for kayaking, snorkelling and island walking. It is the quiet and serene part of the popular Cathedral Cove, where you can enjoy exploring its sandy beach and go for a nice swim. There is a track going to the top of the hill, perfect for viewing the two adjoining beaches of Cathedral Cove.
Palm Beach is nestled away on Moturua Island. Undeniably one of the best beaches on Moturua Island with a pristine beach and calm crystal clear waters. The coastline is a great playground for ball games and a perfect spot for a beach picnic. There's a pathway leading to the mountaintop overlooking the scenic beaches of Moturua Island.
Waewaetorea Island is every outdoor lover's dream tropical destination among the many islands in the Bay of Islands. A two-hour trip is definitely not enough once you step foot on the island. The sound of waves crashing, birds chirping, and the sea breeze gently touching your face makes everything else less significant.
Found in Moturua Island, this secluded beach is readily accessible to boats, kayaks, and paddleboards. Army Bay is safeguarded by grassy slopes and massive headlands surrounding a beautiful curve of calm beach. Our crew anchors The Rock Adventure Cruise off Army Bay while guests swim, fish and kayak. We take on a mini boot camp hiking uphill that rewards with a stunning view.
PREPARATION
For our guests to be prepared for island walks, we advise them to wear proper clothing and apply sunscreen. Island walks are usually scheduled in the mid-morning after snorkelling, both activities allowing guests to burn all the calories from the sumptuous lunch buffet prepared by the crew.