Things to do in Ruby Bay, Mapua and Tasman
Cycle Hire or Tours
Guided or independent tours of our beautiful region from local cycle tour operators, Wheelie Fantastic and Trail Journeys. Both companies offer electric bikes as an option if you wish to take it a bit easier. Trail Journeys hire bikes from their location at the Wharf and a range of tours as well as cycle rentals can be requested online from Wheelie Fantastic.
Ruby Bay
You can walk right along Ruby Bay Beach round to Mapua Wharf if you go at low tide - it's quite a long walk so be prepared to cycle one way and walk back the other if the tide comes in! At low tide, Ruby Bay Beach is easy walking with wide expanses of sand and views to Nelson and D'Urville Island in the distance.
Winter in our region
The region is just as beautiful in winter. We get cool but brilliantly sunny days through the winter months and are within easy reach of the local snowfields. the photo shows Rainbow Ski Field. Plenty of tramping is available in the local hills and three nearby National Parks - Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes.
Mapua Village and Wharf
The village of Mapua, with its shops, galleries and restaurants, is a five minute drive or fifteen minute cycle away. The Wharf area (pictured) also has a famously good fish and chip shop The Smokehouse, and a boutique brewery, The Golden Bear. A great spot to amble about the pedestrianised Wharf area and enjoy Mapua's waterside life.
Eating out
The Apple Shed is one of several cafés and restaurants on Mapua Wharf. Dine overlooking the water or experience pizza and a wide selection of high quality local and international wines at Rimu Bar, an eclectic menu with your beer at Golden Bear or freshly made brioche, filled filo pastries and muffins at Alberta's.
Rabbit Island
You're a five minute ferry ride from Rabbit Island. Buy a ticket on the ferry at Mapua, take your bike and spend some time cycling the paths on the island. The island paths wind through open areas alongside the inlet and managed pine forest beside the lovely wild beach.