The Ultimate Bay of Islands Day Trip: Otehei Bay & Motuarohia Island from Russell
There is a reason the Bay of Islands is world-famous, but to truly understand its magic, you have to get off the mainland and onto the water. One of our absolute favorite day trips is heading out to Otehei Bay on the stunning, pest-free Urupukapuka Island Recreation Reserve. Accessible entirely by boat, this island paradise feels worlds away, yet it is right on the doorstep of your luxury base at Crab Shack Cottage.
Dolphins and Lagoons: The Journey Out
Whether you have your own boat, are out on a jet ski, or choose to step aboard the convenient Explore Group Otehei Bay Ferry departing straight from the Russell Wharf (just a flat 300m walk from our cottage!), the journey is half the fun. Keep your eyes glued to the water—wild dolphin encounters are incredibly common along this route! Before reaching Urupukapuka, make a mandatory stop at Motuarohia Island Wildlife Refuge (Roberton Island). Anchor your boat or jet ski to swim in the world-famous, crystal-clear turquoise lagoons. Don't skip the short, 15-minute walk up the island's ridge to the lookout platform—the 360-degree panoramic views of the island's twin lagoons and the outer bay are absolutely breathtaking.
Island Time at Otehei Bay
Once you pull into the sheltered waters of Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, it's time to fully unwind. Walk up the pristine beach to the fully licensed Otehei Bay Café & Bar. Grab a welcome cold drink, a classic Kiwi burger, or a light snack, and settle in for the afternoon. You can enjoy your lunch at the outdoor picnic tables or sink into one of their famous giant bean bags spread across the beachfront lawn while soaking in the spectacular scenery. If you are feeling active, the island is crisscrossed with scenic walking tracks, or you can hire a kayak or paddle board directly on the beach during the summer months.
The Perfect 4-Bedroom Group Base
After a sun-drenched day of swimming, boating, and exploring the islands, there is nothing better than returning to your own private slice of luxury. Designed perfectly for large families, friend groups, or wedding parties, Crab Shack Cottage sleeps up to 8 guests across four beautifully appointed bedrooms (including two master ensuites).Rinse off the salt water and spend the evening enjoying our premium shared resort facilities. Take a dip in the year-round heated swimming pool, soothe your muscles in the hot tub complex right across the driveway, or light up the dual BBQs in the pool house to cook up the catch of the day.
Your ultimate Northland island adventure starts here. Skip the crowded hotels and enjoy space, privacy, and resort luxury all in one perfect central Russell package. View our image gallery and secure your dates at Crab Shack Cottage here!
