Image: Charlie Barnett | DOC
Sealions at Surat bay
Surat Bay Beach Walk

Located in Catlins coastal area in the Otago region

This short walk runs parallel to Surat Bay Beach and goes through sand dunes. It's the only access to Surat Beach during high tide.

Follow the poled route to pass through the dunes. In most conditions, you may be able to see New Zealand sea lions interacting or sleeping on the beach.

The track is 5.6 km from Owaka. From Owaka, turn off Pounawea Road onto Newhaven Road and turn right for the carpark. The track starts at the end of Surat Bay Road in Newhaven.

Track entrance details

Location: GPS coordinates -46.473518, 169.716341

Two toilets owned by Clutha District Council are nearby.

The Catlins coast is frequented by sea lions, other marine mammals and vulnerable birdlife. New Zealand sea lions come ashore to rest and socialise here.

You may also see some of our native sea and shorebirds nesting here like the variable oystercatcher/tōrea.

Formerly known as Forsyth’s Bay, the bay is now named after the sailing ship “Surat” which became shipwrecked here on New Years Day in 1874. The ship was carrying emigrants and cargo from England to Dunedin, all passengers and crew survived.