A breathtaking maze of sunken river valleys, the Marlborough Sounds are a world of tranquil water, bush-clad hills, and hidden bays. The vibe here is one of peaceful isolation and connection with nature. This is a place you come to escape, to get out on the water, and to feel a million miles from the hustle and bustle. The main hubs are the bustling port town of Picton and the charming fishing village of Havelock, the greenshell mussel capital of the world. But the real magic of the Sounds is found in the remote bays and lodges, many of which are only accessible by boat.

Getting out on the water is the number one thing to do in the Marlborough Sounds. You can explore by kayak, sailboat, or motorboat, discovering secluded beaches and watching for dolphins, seals, and seabirds. The Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand’s premier walking and biking trails, offering stunning views as it winds its way along the ridges of the Sounds. You can walk or bike the whole track, or use the regular boat services to do day sections. A boat cruise is another fantastic way to experience the Sounds, especially a mail boat cruise, where you can join the skipper delivering mail and supplies to the remote homesteads. A local secret? Take a short drive from Havelock up the scenic Kenepuru Road. It’s a winding, beautiful drive that gives you a real sense of the scale and beauty of the Sounds from the land.

Marlborough Sounds accommodation is often an adventure in itself. Think of a remote bach accessible only by water taxi, a luxury lodge tucked into a private bay, or a family holiday home in Picton or Havelock. A Marlborough Sounds holiday house is your ticket to tranquility, a place to wake up to the sound of birdsong and the gentle lapping of water. It's the ultimate destination for a digital detox, a romantic escape, or an adventurous family holiday.

Ready to get away from it all? Find a secluded Marlborough Sounds holiday house, book your water taxi, and discover the magic of the Sounds.