CABLE BAY

Navigating the winding route from north Nelson into Cable Bay is well rewarded with warm, calm waters and a sheltered, shingle stretch of coast. The beach is a place to relax with family or to begin a walk over the hillside, around the coast and into Glenduan. The walkway passes through native bush, which opens up to magnificent views of the city and its surrounding national parks. Cable Bay Kayaks (Cable Bay Road, Hira. (03) 545 0332, cablebaykayaks.co.nz) takes tours out to Pepin Island and its bird colonies.

Leaving from the beach, kayakers can discover caves, beaches, waterfalls, birdlife, seals and dolphins, all just 20 minutes from central Nelson. In summer, the popular and award-winning Cable Bay Café (799 Cable Bay Road. (03) 546 8799, cablebaycafe.co.nz ) is open for visitors.

A self-proud "destination" location, it offers fresh, wholesome and home-style food. From bagels to bowls of soup, mince on toast to fish and chips, homemade pies to crisp salads, it all tastes great after a tiring day by the water.