In short
- Wear a windproof jacket and warm layers.
- Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from blowing sand.
- Choose a sun hat with a chin strap so it stays on.
In this article
Farewell Spit is highly exposed to the Tasman Sea and Golden Bay. Weather changes rapidly, and wind often whips up sand on the dunes. Dressing correctly makes a 6.5-hour 4WD tour much more comfortable.
How should I dress for the wind?
Wear a windproof jacket over warm layers.
The spit stretches 35 kilometres into the ocean. The environment is highly exposed, and weather changes rapidly. Pack a windbreaker even in summer to block the coastal breezes.
How do I protect against the sun and sand?
Bring high SPF sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat with a chin strap.
Sunglasses are essential for blocking glare and blowing sand on the dunes. A chin strap ensures your hat stays on your head in strong winds.
What footwear is best for the sand?
Wear solid walking shoes or boots.
You need sturdy shoes for climbing the Barchan Sand Dunes or walking the first 4 kilometres from Triangle Flat. The terrain includes soft sand, mudflats, and coastal tracks.
What else should I pack for a tour?
Bring a water bottle, snacks, a camera, and binoculars.
Tours last 6 to 6.5 hours. Binoculars help you spot seals and the migratory birds that visit between September and April.
| Item | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Binoculars | Spotting up to 90 bird species and seals |
| Water and snacks | Fuel for the 6-hour 4WD tour |
| Camera | Capturing the dunes and 1897 lighthouse |
Do I need special gear to walk the base?
Standard walking gear is fine for the unrestricted area.
You can walk the first 4 kilometres of Inner Beach for free. Check the signs at the Triangle Flat car park for quicksand hazards before setting out.
Does the weather affect the tour schedule?
Departure times depend on the tides, not just weather.
Farewell Spit Eco Tours schedule their 4WD buses around the daily tides. Booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.
Questions travellers ask
Can I wear a regular baseball cap?
A sun hat with a chin strap is much better. Regular hats blow away easily in the strong coastal winds.
Are sunglasses really necessary?
Yes. They protect your eyes from both intense sun glare and blowing sand on the dunes.
Do I need heavy hiking boots?
Solid walking shoes or boots are fine. You just need sturdy footwear for the sand and coastal tracks.
