Sandfly Bay
About the Business
Welcome to Sandfly Bay, a stunning tourist attraction located in the beautiful Otago region of New Zealand. Situated in the Dunedin area and Otago Peninsula area, Sandfly Bay offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
Part of Sandfly Bay Wildlife Refuge is closed from 1 November to 28 February inclusive, ensuring the protection of the diverse wildlife in the area. As you arrive at the viewing platform, you will be greeted with breathtaking views of Sandfly Bay, the rugged coastline, and the untamed ocean. Follow the signs and make your way down to the beach, where you can enjoy the pristine sand and crashing waves.
The path to the beach is accessed through a stroll down a picturesque farmland, adding to the charm and serenity of the experience. Please note that the track to the beach is steep and maintained to a tramping track standard only, due to the natural movement of sand and erosion. Follow the orange marker poles and signs to ensure you stay on the track and enjoy a safe journey.
Embarking on this track requires a good level of fitness, as some parts may be challenging due to erosion. We recommend taking caution and being mindful of your surroundings at all times. To access Sandfly Bay, simply turn off Highcliff Road onto Seal Point Road and follow it until you reach the Sandfly Bay carpark.
While visiting Sandfly Bay, please be advised not to leave any valuables in your car, as there have been break-ins reported in the area. Additionally, swimming can be dangerous when there are strong winds and currents, so always exercise caution and adhere to any safety warnings.
It's important to note that the track crosses private land, so please stay on the formed track and be respectful of the surrounding environment. You may encounter livestock during your visit, so please do not disturb them and keep a safe distance.
Sandfly Bay offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Otago region. Whether you're captivated by the stunning landscapes, enjoy beach activities, or simply appreciate the abundant wildlife, Sandfly Bay is a must-visit attraction in New Zealand.
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Reviews
"It's definitely worth the pain going down all the way to the beach, saw about 26 sea lions sleeping and walking. This NZ sea lions are endemic to this area and they are endangered. They are also unique, can only be found in Otago peninsula. Recommended to wear eye glasses and jacket as it's very windy, the sand gets stirred by the wind. Need to be fit enough to climb up and down the track among the sand dunes. It takes 15-20mins to walk back up. There's another place up north called Shag Point with a dedicated track to view NZ Fur Seals, they look very similar to sea lions. This track is definitely easier, just 5mins, but it can be very, very windy. No toilet, about 20 carparks. The drive from town is neither easy nor difficult, going through windy road along the cliff."
"Amazing beach that is beautiful and quiet. We went in the late afternoon to watch the seals come in and were lucky enough to see a penguin!! We sat on the edge of the exclusion zone for maybe half an hour waiting to see if he had friends but we probably scared them off ☹"
"I'm literally in love with this beach. It is truly wonderful. The first time we went there was this summer and in addition to the sea lions sleeping on the sand, we had the chance to spot two yellow-eyed penguins at dawn! We visited it again a few days ago, in July, and even though we didn't see any penguin, there was PLENTY of sea lions (being really active!!). It takes less than 5 minutes to get to the lookout, and maybe 10 to reach the beach. A bit longer to come back to the carpark as you have to climb the dunes. There's a pretty big carpark at the trailhead, where self-contained vehicles can park overnight. It's absolutely quiet, apart from the sound of the waves. The carpark is slightly sloped though."
"Amazing place to visit the views are incredible, try to visit at low tide as it is much more spectacular. Saw lots of sea lions and there arw fur seals at the far end of the beach in the rocks. Didn't see any penguins but there are signs of them, if you want to see them would recommend visiting dusk / dawn. Steep and sandy walk down so just be careful."
"An absolute gem for wildlife! The beach itself is a spectacular to look at when looking from above - the viewpoint. If you decide to go down to the actual beach, it is a sandy path that can be steep at times. Be mindful of the time and season and keep penguin's habits in mind. Saw a ton of sea lions playing on the beach a, going in and out of water and snoozing. Respect the animals and their space as they are faster then many expect."
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