Bay of Islands Tours

5 Day Discover the Bay of Islands

  • Independent travel
  • 5 days
  • Auckland to Auckland
  • All year
  • Tour code 5DBI

Bay of Islands Tour

Only three hours north of Auckland, the Bay of Islands subtropical micro-region is known for its stunning beauty and history.

Trip highlights

  • Guided coach tour from Auckland to Paihia
  • Dolphin Cruise & Hole in the Rock
  • Full day tour to Cape Reinga & 90 Mile Beach

Day by day

  1. Day 1 Auckland to Bay of Islands

    This tour takes you across the Auckland Harbour Bridge, north via the Hibiscus Coast to the beautiful Bay of Islands - a haven for people who enjoy sea activities and the beauty of uncrowded sandy beaches and native forests. Arrive in Paihia and visit the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, then be transferred to chosen accommodation. The rest of your day is at leisure.

    Overnight: Paihia, Bay of Islands
  2. Day 2 Dolphin Cruise and the Hole in the Rock

    Enjoy the large outdoor viewing decks as you cruise past the inner islands of the Bay and Cape Brett Lighthouse, before arriving at the majestic Hole in the Rock - hold your breath as the skipper navigates through the narrow space and admire the rock walls which soar above you. Take in the Grand Cathedral Cave.On the return journey meander through the inner islands keeping a look out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales and other marine life as your skipper gives an informative commentary. Enjoy an island stop over on beautiful Urupukapuka Island.

    Overnight: Paihia, Bay of Islands
  3. Day 3 Cape Regina via 90 Mile Beach

    Day tour to Cape Regina to experience the natural wonders of the far North. See mighty kauri trees as you take a short walk through the Puketi Kauri Forest, drive along Ninety Mile Beach, and travel to the top of New Zealand and wander out to the lighthouse at Cape Reinga. Ride sand sledges on the massive sand dunes with time to take a swim and dig for shellfish.

    Overnight: Paihia, Bay of Islands
  4. Day 4 Day at leisure.

    Free day to explore Paihia.

    Overnight: Paihia, Bay of Islands
  5. Day 5 Paihia - Auckland

    Transfer from Paihia to Auckland is included

Download Full Itinerary

Our key to earning trust is Transparency

What's included

  • 4 nights of accommodation in your selected category
  • Transfer to Auckland
  • Sightseeing and attractions as listed

What's not included

  • Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
  • Taxes as applicable
  • Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
  • Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers, and/or Bus Drivers
  • Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
  • Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
Get a Quote

Ready to explore this journey?

Contact our travel experts for current departure dates, prices and any changes you have in mind.

1-866-824-8598

Search by tour code, part of a tour name, or a destination.

Classic tours

*The style our travellers have enjoyed for over 20 years, these tours feature inclusive itineraries to popular destinations including the 'must see' sites and attractions. Led by an expert Tour Leader, you will enjoy comfortable accommodation, and coach transport throughout the journey.

Browse Escorted Tours

Distinction tours

*These tours are defined by their incomparably unique itineraries, featuring 'off the beaten path' destinations and immersive experiences. An intimate group size allows us to stay in smaller, centrally located, unique and boutique style inns, lodges and hotels, utilize traditional local transportation and dive deep into each destination's local culture and traditions.

Browse Escorted Tours

Independent tours

*These travel experiences are fully customizable to better fit your needs. Every itinerary is created based on your comfort level, accommodation choices, and personal interests. Whether you are looking for a rail adventure, self drive holiday, unique experiences, or a short city stay our team will work with you on combining accommodation, transportation, and activities based on your preferences to create the perfect itinerary for you.

Browse Independent Travel

Custom Groups tours

*These travel experiences are fully customizable to better fit your needs. Every itinerary is created based on your comfort level, accommodation choices, and personal interests. Whether you are looking for a rail adventure, self drive holiday, unique experiences, or a short city stay our team will work with you on combining accommodation, transportation, and activities based on your preferences to create the perfect itinerary for you.

Browse Custom Groups