Tunnel Beach
About the Business
Welcome to Tunnel Beach, a hidden gem nestled along the stunning Otago coastline in Dunedin, New Zealand. As an established point of interest and a must-visit tourist attraction, Tunnel Beach offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors from all around the world.
Perched on the edge of towering cliffs, Tunnel Beach is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and intriguing history. The main highlight of this institution is the secret tunnel that was hand-carved in the 1870s by a local politician, John Cargill, to provide his family with private access to the secluded beach below. Today, this tunnel serves as a captivating reminder of the area's rich past and adds a sense of adventure to your visit.
As you make your way through the tunnel, you'll be transported into a world of awe-inspiring landscapes. On the other side, you'll be greeted by a picturesque pebble beach, surrounded by steep cliffs and rock formations that have been sculpted by the forces of nature over thousands of years. The crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean crashing against the shore create a mesmerizing symphony that will leave you feeling at peace with nature.
Tunnel Beach is not only a feast for the eyes but also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for a variety of seabirds soaring above, including albatrosses and gulls, while seals can often be spotted basking on the rocks below. The area's diverse flora and fauna make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, Tunnel Beach has something for everyone. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, explore the rock pools teeming with marine life, or sit back and soak in the beauty of the surrounding cliffs. The panoramic views from this vantage point are truly awe-inspiring and provide an excellent opportunity to capture memorable photographs.
For those seeking a more active adventure, Tunnel Beach offers fantastic hiking trails that wind their way through the rugged coastal landscape. These trails provide stunning panoramic views of the ocean and the opportunity to discover hidden caves and rock formations along the way.
After a day of exploration, be sure to visit the nearby city of Dunedin, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and warm hospitality. Indulge in a delicious meal at one of the many local restaurants or cafes, or explore the charming shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs.
Tunnel Beach is a place that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul. Its beauty, history, and natural wonders combine to create an experience that is truly unforgettable. So, come and immerse yourself in the magic of Tunnel Beach and discover why it is one of New Zealand's most cherished tourist attractions.
Photos
Location & Phone number
Blackhead, Dunedin, Otago 9012, New Zealand
Reviews
"Views are absolutely amazing and the entire experience is definitely worth the effort. The walk back up though takes a bit of effort so it should be a consideration for anyone who doesn't get much physical activity on the regular. Maybe take caution in wet/rainy conditions as the walk down would cause some slips, tumbles and crazy laughs..."
"Perfect beach with a beautiful cliffs. Good for moderate level walking. Some area of the tracks are steep but not difficult. Park the car and just walk down the track to see the cliff and ocean. To get on to the beach you will have to walk through the tunnel. Probably will see a sleeping sea lion too"
"Great walk down the coast and through to the beach. Timed the low tide with a sunrise. Would recommend."
"Very big surprise. Even better than cathedral cove. Its best going here during low tide and sunset. Steep walk to get to the beach. Trash bin near parking lot. And its for free! There is a new carpark being build at the moment. Go DOC, go! :)"
"This is an iconic view and one of the South Island’s most photographed spots for good reason — it is beautiful! We got to the parking area at 9:45 on a Sunday morning, hoping it would be early enough to beat the tourist rush, but we got the last parking spot and felt lucky we did! There is some construction happening near the top of the trail, but the path to Tunnel Beach is clearly signed. The other reviews are accurate in saying the walk is very steep, so take care going down and plan to take your time coming back up. Views of the amazing rock formations come into range within the first few minutes and only become more amazing as you get closer. At the bottom of the trail is a hole in the rock where a tunnel with steps has been hewn leading down to the rocks and tiny sand beach. Please be certain to check the tide tables. We were there 2 hours after low tide and there was almost no sand visible at all. We certainly could not walk under the archway of the rock. Don’t attempt to swim — ferocious waves, currents, and rocks could be deadly. Many people stepped over the wooden railing to go out onto the rock outcrop. While the views are inspiring, please take extreme care: it is very windy and a misstep would be bad. The walk back up was not as bad as we expected. We did stop for a few seconds to breathe a couple of times."
List of local businesses, places and services in Dunedin
⭐ business help 🔍 services ☎ phones 🕒 opening times ✍️reviews 🌍 addresses, locations 📷 photos