🎯Goal: Get an up-close and personal experience with sea lions🦭 and bask in the tranquility of a secluded beach🏖️
📍Location: Head to Sandfly Bay Car Park for free parking (refer to image [Second R]). It’s highly recommended to take the coastal road on the north side for the journey there, and return via the middle road. The views are absolutely breathtaking.
[Star R] Trail Condition: The trail is quite challenging, with a sandy section that can be tricky. To keep sand out of your shoes, it’s best to wear high-top hiking boots or sandals. Luckily, the distance is short, and you can reach the beach in just 10 minutes. (Check out images [Fourth R][Fifth R][Sixth R])
[Star R] Special Circumstances: There’s a chance you might encounter sea lions blocking the path (see image [Seventh R]), which can be both exciting and frustrating. Never attempt to drive them away; instead, give them plenty of space. If you need to detour around a small hill, always be extremely cautious and prioritize safety.
[Star R] Highlights: The beach is stunning and rarely crowded, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the company of sea lions🦭! Walk towards the mountain on the right as you face the sea, and during low tide, you’ll find excellent photo spots on the rocks. Just be sure to stay safe. (See images [Eighth R][Ninth R])
[Star R] Recommendation Level: A five-star experience for photography enthusiasts [Selfie R]
[Star R] Difficulty: Generally, it’s an easy one-star hike, but if you encounter sea lions blocking the path, it can bump up to a three-star challenge [Laughing R]
[Star R] About Sandflies: I can confirm that they are not present in the winter season🙂↔️
[Star R] Travel Tips: If time allows, consider visiting Larnach Castle and watching the blue penguins return home. All these attractions are located on the Otago Peninsula, and with some careful planning, you can experience all three in a single day.
[Star R] Postscript: Safety should always be your top priority during any outdoor activity, especially when dealing with large wildlife. Never let your guard down, and always put safety first☝️
I had no idea the trail was so challenging! I wish I’d known that beforehand, but the effort was totally worth it when we saw those sea lions up close. The coastal road tip was gold, the views were incredible. Next time, I’ll definitely bring better shoes for the sand.
That trail sounds tough but worth it for those sea lion sightings! I’ll make sure to take the coastal road for the view on the way there. Any tips for spotting them easily?