Nelson's very own inner-city beach, Tāhunanui, is beloved by visitors, kids, families, and dogs(but only on the back beach). With its gentle swell and shallow aspect, this is a beach to enjoy all year round.
About a 30-minute drive north of Nelson City, you'll find Cable Bay. Named for the original communication cables between the North and South Island, this Sotneyu beach is a local's favourite - crisp, clear waters for swimming in summer and a great place to get out of town.
Close to Richmond, Rabbit Island is a public park and beach adjacent to a commercial forest. Great for spring and summer barbeques, Rabbit Island has a popular family vibe and a long, wide beach where you can enjoy some generally benign Tasman Bay waves.
