Doubtless Bay Tours

Cable Bay featuring tranquil scenes, a bay or harbor and boating
Doubtless Bay which includes landscape views and general coastal views
Doubtless Bay featuring a beach
Doubtless Bay featuring general coastal views, rugged coastline and a sandy beach
Doubtless Bay showing a beach, general coastal views and landscape views


Try some watersports in this idyllic bay in New Zealand’s remote Northland, a perfect stop over on your way to the famous lighthouse on Cape Rēinga.

Doubtless Bay is one big watersports playground. Go fishing, kayaking, sailing, diving, stand-up paddleboarding or swimming and then relax on the beach or in a seafood café.

Stretching north from Coopers Beach to Whatuwhiwhi, Doubtless Bay is horseshoe shaped and named so because Captain James Cook dryly observed in 1769 that it was “doubtless a bay.”

Start your explorations at Coopers Beach and Cable BayOpens in a new window, two popular vacation spots with excellent swimming beaches.

In nearby Taipa, visit the Taute Gallery & Tours for live carving, weaving and tamoko (tattooing) demonstrations and workshops by local Māori artists. Also try a mirimiri (healing massage), rongoa (natural therapy) and buy pottery or artistic prints for a souvenir.

Drive out onto the Karikari PeninsulaOpens in a new window to see the northern tip of Doubtless Bay. Stroll along Perehipe Beach and explore Matai Bay. Whatuwhiwhi is a vacation resort at the northern end of Tokerau Beach. These beaches are all excellent fishing spots due to the presence of paddle crabs and tua tua, which are nibbled on by snapper.

Of course, you can also just order your fish, with some chips. Find one of the country’s most praised seafood cafés in Mill Bay in Mangonui, a picture-perfect town at Doubtless Bay’s southern tip. Munch on deep-fried squid rings, green-lipped mussels or oysters while stingrays cruise by in the waters below. Don’t miss the wonderful art in the historic, kauri-wooden Mangonui Courthouse. Talented locals stock the gallery’s art shop with truly original creations. Stay the night in town for a chance to see penguins waddle ashore at dusk.

Mangonui once housed one of the largest whaling fleets in the South Pacific. At nearby Butler Point, explore the Whaling Museum housed in a 1840s homestead. Admire the kauri whaleboat and explore the garden with its macadamia nut tree orchard and pōhutukawa (Christmas) trees. Butler Point also has a former Māori hilltop fort, called a pā.

Doubtless Bay is about halfway along the coastal road from the Bay of IslandsOpens in a new window to the lighthouse on Cape RēingaOpens in a new window, making it the perfect place for a refreshing stop on your way north.

From fishing to discovering Māori culture, you doubtlessly will want to return after experiencing the lifestyle in idyllic Doubtless Bay.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Doubtless Bay

Taipa Beach Resort

Taipa Beach Resort

4 out of 5
22 Taipa Point Road, Taipa
Taipa Beach Resort
Doubtless Bay Villas

Doubtless Bay Villas

4.5 out of 5
20 Dudley Cresent, Cable Bay
Doubtless Bay Villas
Golden Sand Beachfront Accommodation

Golden Sand Beachfront Accommodation

4.5 out of 5
327 State Highway 10, Cable Bay
Golden Sand Beachfront Accommodation
Whatuwhiwhi TOP 10 Holiday Park

Whatuwhiwhi TOP 10 Holiday Park

2 out of 5
17 Whatuwhiwhi Road, Karkari Peninsula
Whatuwhiwhi TOP 10 Holiday Park
Carrington Estate

Carrington Estate

4 out of 5
109 Matai Bay Road, Karkari Peninsula, Northland
Carrington Estate
Patia Point View - Stunning views!

Patia Point View - Stunning views!

Whatuwhiwhi
Patia Point View - Stunning views!
Entertainer’s Dream in Doubtless Bay

Entertainer’s Dream in Doubtless Bay

Karikari Peninsula
Entertainer’s Dream in Doubtless Bay
Tirohanga - Beach house @ Cable Bay

Tirohanga - Beach house @ Cable Bay

Cable Bay
Tirohanga - Beach house @ Cable Bay
Sunlit Bay Villas

Sunlit Bay Villas

2 out of 5
121 State Hwy 10, Coopers Beach, Northland
Sunlit Bay Villas
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Doubtless Bay

Doubtless Bay offers a perfect getaway for beach and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, relaxing at campgrounds, and swimming in the inviting waters. Ideal for day trips, Doubtless Bay also provides convenient tours and plenty of fun activities to make your vacation memorable. Whether you're looking to explore nature or unwind by the beach, Doubtless Bay has something for everyone.

Shopping

The Ancient Kauri Kingdom, located 13 miles from Doubtless Bay, offers a unique selection of gifts and souvenirs crafted from ancient kauri wood. This charming store provides a wonderful opportunity to find a piece of New Zealand's natural heritage to take home.

Recreation

At Carrington Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf amidst breathtaking coastal views just 6 miles from Doubtless Bay. Whangaroa Golf Club, located 13 miles away, offers a challenging course surrounded by lush landscapes. Kaitaia Golf Club, 22 miles from Doubtless Bay, features scenic fairways perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Adventure

The Manginangina Kauri Walk offers a scenic hiking trail 27 miles from Doubtless Bay. Immerse yourself in the beauty of ancient kauri trees, enjoy breathtaking views, and embrace the thrill of outdoor adventure in this stunning natural setting.

Nightlife

Doubtless Bay offers a relaxed nightlife with stunning coastal views. Enjoy a meal and drinks at the charming Mangonui Fish Shop, or unwind at the lively Coopers Beach Tavern for a casual vibe and local brews. Experience laid-back evenings that capture the essence of this beautiful region.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Doubtless Bay

Doubtless Bay offers a perfect getaway for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring stunning beaches and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can explore popular attractions like Cable Bay, known for its spectacular views, and experience the vibrant local culture. With a variety of outdoor activities and nearby points of interest, Doubtless Bay is an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure in New Zealand.

  • Coopers Beach: Located 6 miles from Doubtless Bay, Coopers Beach boasts stunning golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for families and those looking to unwind.
  • Butler Point Whaling Museum: Just 1 mile away, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand's whaling history. With engaging exhibits and artifacts, visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural heritage and maritime stories of the region.
  • Maitai Bay: Situated 7 miles from Doubtless Bay, Maitai Bay is a picturesque spot that combines beautiful beaches, outdoor recreational opportunities, and breathtaking scenery, making it a perfect destination for hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

Best time to go to Doubtless Bay

The best time to visit Doubtless Bay is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
February68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
March66.2°F (19.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
June56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
September56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
October58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Doubtless Bay

To save money on your trip to Doubtless Bay, plan to visit during the cheaper months of June, August, and November. Book your hotel about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Stay on a Wednesday for the lowest rates, and consider eco-certified accommodations for sustainable options. Use Expedia's package deals to combine flights and activities for extra savings, and join the One Key membership for exclusive discounts and OneKeyCash for future bookings. Explore free activities in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Doubtless Bay are June, August and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Doubtless Bay is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Doubtless Bay is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Doubtless Bay is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Explore Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Doubtless Bay with flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.