Surat Bay is 5 kms from Owaka on the Owaka to Pounawea Rd. Follow the signs. Here you can enjoy a walk along a long, wide sandy beach with beautiful views across an inlet to Pounawea. The bay was named after the sailing vessel "Surat" that was shipwrecked there in 1874.

Cannibal Bay with its white sand and blue/green water is signposted 3 km north of Owaka and from there about 8 km down a gravel road. It owes its name to some human remains once found by a surveyor. 

At the far end of Cannibal Bay, a track commencing from False Islet Reserve leads onto Surat Bay over the dunes.  Approx 1 hour return. 

Sea lions are commonly seen in both places but don't get too close. Take as many photos as you like but keep to the 20m distance!

Surat Bay and Cannibal Bay are beautiful beaches with a real sense of history.

You can walk from Surat Bay to Cannibal Bay along the headland through the dunes. (follow the orange signs). En route, you will pass the site where human bones were once found.

You will see the shipwreck sign pointing to where the Surat ran aground in 1873, giving the bay its name. To find out more about the history, visit the Owaka Museum.

It is a great spot in The Catlins to see sea lions - ensure you keep a safe distance.

The 8km road to Cannibal Bay is gravel - please take care.