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Queen Charlotte Sound/Tōtaranui area
This walking track leads to a wonderful swimming beach from Queen Charlotte Drive.
Distance
0.6 km
Walking time
15-20 mins return
Difficulty
Easiest
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 11:01 pm
11 October 2026
Cloudy with showers, mainly about the Sounds and inland ranges, clearing and becoming mainly fine late afternoon. Northwesterlies but northeasterlies about Kaikoura Coast, strong at times, easing everywhere in the evening.
12 October 2026
Fine. Light winds, then northerlies developing in the afternoon.
13 October 2026
Mainly fine, but isolated showers in the morning and afternoon. Northwesterlies.
14 October 2026
Showers developing in the morning. Northerlies developing in the morning.
15 October 2026
Showers, some heavy. Southeasterlies developing.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
Track description The best of the Marlborough Sounds is on offer at the beach at the end of this short hike. The path zig-zags through native bush, past some native birds down to Governors Bay beach. It’s a popular place to take a picnic. Many people enjoy swimming, sailing or kayaking in this sheltered area of water. The track to the beach is compact, but not gravelled, so it is not suitable for pushchairs. Since the walk doesn’t take long, it’s suitable for children and those with less fitness. Although the track isn’t long, it pays to take both sun protection and warm clothing with you. The track is about 5-10 minutes each way. Compostable toilets are located at the beach but there is no drinking water. Some providers may not provide cell reception at this site. Getting there The beach is 15 minutes from Picton on a narrow, winding road. The scenery is beautiful though and it’s well worth exploring. At the trailhead, there’s a small amount of space on the northern side of the road to park your car. Be careful, as there are blind corners on this road and turning around can be difficult. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there: Helpful resources Find tips, guides and how-to videos to help you prepare for your walk at mountainsafety.org.nz
No dogs.
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.