Doubtless Bay

Cable Bay showing boating, tranquil scenes and a bay or harbor
Doubtless Bay
Doubtless Bay
Doubtless Bay
Doubtless Bay


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


Top Hotel Deals

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
Sunlit Bay Villas

Sunlit Bay Villas

2 out of 5
121 State Hwy 10, Coopers Beach, Northland
Sunlit Bay Villas
The Awanui Hotel

The Awanui Hotel

3 out of 5
50 SH 1, Awanui, Northland
The Awanui Hotel
Loredo Motel

Loredo Motel

2.5 out of 5
25 North Road, Kaitaia
Loredo Motel
Wayfarer Motel

Wayfarer Motel

3 out of 5
231 Commerce Street, Kaitaia
Wayfarer Motel
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 is an idyllic destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking trails, and swimming in the pristine waters. It’s an ideal spot for day trips, convenient tours, and engaging activities that promise fun and relaxation amidst nature’s beauty. Experience the charm of Northland and create unforgettable memories in this picturesque locale.

Shopping

A mere 20.9km from Doubtless Bay, the Ancient Kauri Kingdom offers a unique shopping experience with stunning handcrafted items made from ancient kauri wood. It's a perfect spot to find memorable gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.

Recreation

Experience the scenic Carrington Golf Course, just 9.7km from Doubtless Bay, where you can enjoy outdoor golfing amidst beautiful landscapes. Alternatively, the Whangaroa Golf Club, located 20.9km away, offers a similar outdoor sporting vibe. For more golf adventures, visit Kaitaia Golf Club, 35.4km from the bay.

Adventure

The Manginangina Kauri Walk, located 43.5km from Doubtless Bay, offers an exhilarating hiking experience amidst towering kauri trees. This scenic trail immerses you in the region's natural beauty, featuring lush landscapes and the sounds of native wildlife, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Doubtless Bay offers a laid-back nightlife atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Enjoy a relaxed evening at local bars or dine at seaside restaurants where you can savour fresh seafood while soaking in the stunning coastal views.

*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 delightful retreat for those seeking beach and outdoor experiences, with stunning scenery and numerous attractions. Visitors can enjoy Cable Bay's picturesque views, explore the local beaches, and take in the breathtaking surroundings. The area is perfect for leisurely strolls along the coast and discovering nearby reserves, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

  • Coopers Beach: Experience the serene beauty of Coopers Beach, located a mere 9.7km from Doubtless Bay. This picturesque beach offers a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the stunning coastal views.
  • Butler Point Whaling Museum: Just 1.6km away, this museum immerses visitors in the rich whaling history of the region. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the cultural heritage and significance of whaling in New Zealand.
  • Maitai Bay: Situated 11.3km from Doubtless Bay, Maitai Bay is a stunning outdoor paradise. With its breathtaking scenery, this bay is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or indulging in a peaceful picnic while enjoying the natural surroundings.

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 SunnyModerately LowSlightly 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 SunnyAverageAverage
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, consider visiting in June, August, or November when prices are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Wednesdays typically offer the best rates, while Fridays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter for your budget and eco-friendly options, and consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, explore free activities like hiking and enjoying the stunning beaches to maximise your experience without overspending.

  • 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. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Doubtless Bay with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.