Area & getting there
Elaine Bay Campsite
DOC campsite reference point, not a verified entrance or individual pitch.
Official location information: Department of Conservation (new tab)Location source & precision
- Reference coordinates
- -41.05528, 173.76957 (latitude, longitude)
- Precision
- WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
- Source
- DOC Maps campsite reference point (WGS84), exact official-page asset ID (new tab)
Department of Conservation - Location source checked
Read the full guideArrival, planning and local advice
- Pelorus Sound camping with a jetty and a winding sealed approach.
- Check Marlborough road updates before travel; sealed access is still narrow and winding.
- No dogs or fires. Arrange any boating separately.
- Camping styles
- tent, campervan, caravan
- Fees
- NZ$10 per adult (18+) per night, non-powered. Recheck the total for your dates.
- Water
- Untreated tap water; DOC says to boil before use. Carry a reserve.
Pelorus Sound camping with a jetty and a winding sealed approach.
Plan the Sounds drive
The route branches off the Croisilles-French Pass road beyond Okiwi Bay and finishes on Elaine Bay Road. Give the final approach its own allowance in the itinerary rather than measuring the journey only by distance. Before leaving, check road notices and confirm the route suits your vehicle dimensions. If towing, pack loose items securely and plan to arrive while there is still light to inspect the camping area.
Choose land or water activities
DOC presents Elaine Bay as a base for exploring Pelorus Sound and nearby tracks. Decide whether the stay is mainly a camping break or the starting point for a separate water trip. That choice affects the equipment, transport coordination and spare time you need. Keep an enjoyable land-based alternative in the plan so unsuitable boating conditions do not force a hurried departure or pressure anyone into an activity they are uncomfortable undertaking.
Reserve a simple overnight
Book before arrival and prepare for non-powered camping. For a vehicle stay, check that lights, refrigeration and other essentials can operate independently for the planned night. Tent campers should keep a dry change of clothes and the sleeping kit separate from the day's gear. Start with filled drinking-water containers, then deal with any replenishment deliberately. A short written packing list can prevent everyday necessities being overlooked when the main focus is boating equipment.
Check the official campsite information for current restrictions, facilities and booking arrangements.
