PADDLING AROUND PEPIN ISLAND FROM CABLE BAY

Jo Taylor
Feb 23
5 min read

Nestled just outside of Nelson, Cable Bay is one of my fave spots. I can see why this is considered one of the best beaches in New Zealand... a great swimming spot, with snorkelling on the reef, some easy bolted climbs for those that love rock climbing, epic views of the Boulder Bank, Nelson, the Kahurangi and Abel Tasman national parks on a clear day from Cable Bay Walkway, and stunning views from the Cable Bay Look Out. And that is before we talk about paddling!

This scenic spot is located between Nelson and Marlborough, so the perfect stop at when driving around the country, or just as easily accessible when living in Nelson. You have a few paddling options here depending on the weather, conditions and your experience on the water. Paddling in the shelter of Cable Bay is stunning just on its own, with some caves to explore and spectacular landscapes. Or if you are here around the high tide, paddling on the Delaware Inlet on the otherwise of the beach is just beautiful, more sheltered than the open sea, calmer, flatter - so perfect to just paddle here around high tide.

But THE PADDLE that I was desperate to do is an epic 1/2 day trip circumnavigating Pepin island - a private island marked by its lush rolling green hills, connected to land by Cable Bay beach, a shingle and rock spit. Being private adds to its exclusivity - you won't find crowds here, just you and your paddeboard and the sounds of the waves.

Tides and weather needs to line up for this one, and one winters day, it did perfectly so I hopped in the car from Nelson and headed over on my own. I forgot my lunch, so I had been hoping to get an epic feed at the Cable Bay Cafe but it wasn't open, so I scrounged together some cereal bars from the van and made do.

Starting from Cable Bay beach, this 11km island adventure is perfect for those looking to explore the rugged coastline, caves and rock formations, and crystal-clear waters. But you do need to time it right with the tides (see route info below). Pepin Island is dotted with hidden coves and secluded beaches, perfect for taking a break and soaking up the scenery. One of the first caves on the western side of the island is known as Green Room Cave and you can paddle through it, just be aware of surging waves. If conditions are calm, don’t forget to bring your snorkelling gear, as the underwater life around the island is supposedly just as impressive as the views above. The huge lions mane jelly fish that I saw didn't make me want to hop in today though so I sat that one out this time.

Keep your eyes peeled for seals lounging on the rocks, and if you're lucky, you might even spot some dolphins playing in the waves. The northern part of the island is the most exposed headland so be careful paddling around here with the swell and wind, and around to the calmer eastern side of the island. Once you reach the eastern side of the island, you head through the channel into the Delaware Inlet, where lots of stingrays relax and hunt on the shallow sandy waters. As I was zooming along with the incoming tide into the inlet, I glided over four or five big rays, which was pretty darn cool. As this is a narrow channel, the flow is strong so be careful. You will see Maori Pa, or Delaware Beach in front of you as you enter the inlet - which is beautiful but to be respected at a distance as it is a Maori graveyard. I felt a real sense of peace and calm here, with the calm of the water, the splash of fish and the sound of birds - it felt quite spiritual. From here, paddle back round to your car where the inlet meets the beach - but your timing is everything for this one (see below) to avoid dragging your board through mud! I was bang on high tide, but it was a neap tide, so I did have a little carry through the mud, which nearly swallowed my trainers, but we made it through!

So, grab your paddleboard, pack your sense of adventure, and set off from Cable Bay, it's an experience you won't want to miss.

Paddleboarding at Kaiteriteri to Split Apple Rock, Nelson, New Zealand

Route

PADDLING INFO for pepin island from cable bay

RATING

Challenging for the full circumnavigation, beginner friendly in Cable Bay or Delaware Inlet

ROUTE & conditions

To circumnavigate Pepin island, as you leave Cable Bay, you want to time your paddle so you return into the Delaware Inlet with the high tide (2.5 - 3.5hrs depending on your speed). The Delaware Inlet is tidal despite having channels from the Wakapuaka river. If it is neap tides (smaller high tides), make sure you are bang on high tide to give yourself enough water to paddle in, otherwise it is a messy walk through sinking mud flats. I paddled in bang on a high tide of 3.1m and had a short muddy walk. But on a spring tide, high tide could be well over 4m which would give you a bit more time either side of high tide to come in.
You could also paddle this the other way, and leave from the Delaware Inlet just after high tide and go with the outgoing tide, as long as the wind direction is going to be helping you on your way. There's no turning back in this direction though!
If you are new to paddling on the sea, not used to dealing with waves and swell, I would stick to paddling in the shelters of Cable Bay or on the Delaware Inlet at high tide. The circumnavigation paddle is not for beginners, due to the exposed headland on the north of the island in open water, where the ocean can give you big swell.
The weather can change rapidly, so always check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for sudden shifts in wind. Make sure you take a drybag with essentials like a phone, water, and snacks and a PLB for this one as beach stops are limited and you won't see anyone.

WHERE TO PARK & LAUNCH

You may need to get here early to get a spot in peak season. You can park at either end of Cable Bay beach, but I suggest the Pepin Island end as this is quieter and closer to your launch. There are no restrictions for parking (except no overnight stays) and there is a toilet. Park up here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8Qa2MRQfA4od1kBu9
Launch from Cable Bay and stay close to Pepin Island. Be careful of the reef, and there is often some surf to wade through when launching.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

Cable Bay Cafe is not to be missed. With delicious food for breakfast and lunch, cakes, coffees and ice creams - it's perfect for a post paddle stop! Although in winter, its hours are limited to the weekends.
There is also a cafe at Cable Bay Adventure Park on your drive in to Cable Bay, with a range of fun outdoor activities such as zip lining, quad biking, panitball and mountain biking.

WHERE TO SLEEP

Cable Bay Holiday Park is a hidden gem! With lots of camping and van spots rounnd the back, it is more than meets the eye from the road. The owners are super friendly and welcoming, and great facilities for camping, vans, and cabins too.

LOCAL INFO

NZ Maritime Law states a requirement to wear a buoyancy aid when paddleboarding (body or airbelt) and have two forms of communication (e.g. phone and whistle).
This paddle is best done in winter for calmest conditions. In summer, be aware that the sea breeze picks up throughout the day so aligning tides to paddle in the morning will be your best best for a good paddle!