Surat Bay blew us away the first time we went there at sunset. Then we went back to make sure it wasn’t a mistake. Like many of the Catlins beaches, it is remote and beautiful, and the pics speak for themselves. The bay is also great for seeing the rare NZ sea lion (whakahao). But tread carefully when near them; they are bigger and less docile than seals.
Take Pounawea Road, then Newhaven Road from Owaka to the bay on the north side of the Catlins River mouth. Walk through the dunes to the beach. Alternatively, take Cannibal Bay Road from Owaka Highway to Cannibal Bay. Walk to the south end of this bay, then across the point to Surat Bay.
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