Wander through Raglan’s small, but vibrant, town center with its laid-back ambience, thriving music scene and arty displays and you will have no doubt about the appeal of this once-sleepy town. The surf here is legendary, renowned for both its high quality and its incredible consistency. The locals will happily close shop if the word is out that the perfect left-hander wave is up.
Big swells from the Tasman Sea wrap around the headland and break in a seemingly endless series of waves. This is quite a sight to behold, so it’s worth the 10-minute drive from the town center. Park up at Manu Bay, the first of the three lookout points, and enjoy the spectacle as expert surfers of all ages show their tricks.
Unless you’re a skilled surfer, it’s advisable not to paddle out into the breaks at Raglan. Strong rips, sharp rocks and surfing crowds make for a potentially unpleasant experience. You can book in for a lesson with one of the town’s surf schools at the much safer Ngarunui Beach.
Raglan itself is a draw for a whole range of artists, musicians and “lifestylers” who come to escape the city. You can easily fill an afternoon browsing through galleries and stopping in for a drink at one of the cafés. On the second Sunday of each month, the Old School Arts Centre comes alive with produce growers from around the region. Sample local cheeses, homemade chutneys and fresh organic produce or just go people-watching.
Rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board and explore the harbor at high tide. Alternatively, go horse riding along the black-sand beaches of the west coast or rent a mountain bike.
Local tour operators offer trips to the surrounding countryside with its steep mountains, dense forests, swift-flowing rivers and deserted beaches.
Raglan is a 45-minute drive west of Hamilton on the North Island of New Zealand. Buses run a few times a day from Hamilton to Raglan, but renting a vehicle is better if you want to explore the surrounding area.
Raglan
Travel Guide
Raglan Harbour View Hotel
14 BOW STREET, Raglan
The price is ¥11,609 per night from May 27 to May 28
¥11,609
per night
May 27 - May 28
Book a stay at this historic inn in Raglan. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 bars/lounges. Popular attractions Raglan & District Museum and Old School Arts ...
7.6/10 Good! (55 reviews)
"Cool old pub and accom"
Reviewed on Apr 16, 2024
Sunnynook Cottage Sea Views Top Location, walking distance to town.
Raglan
Stay at this vacation home in Raglan. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (194 reviews)
Sunnynook
"Fabulous location and easy walking distance to the cafes. Quirky old style Bach which is just fabulous. Beautiful views and all the amenities that you need. Great communication with owner. Loved our stay."
Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024
Sunny Elevated (Puriri West Studio) with sea views
Raglan
Stay at this apartment in Raglan. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Whale Bay and Manu Bay Nature Reserve are located nearby.
9.8/10 Exceptional! (26 reviews)
Raglan Paradise
"Gorgeous place for a private getaway, magic views great host☺️"
Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024
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.
The Gazebo at Ribbonwood Farm
Raglan
Stay at this cabin in Raglan. Enjoy a garden, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Old School Arts Centre and Raglan & District Museum ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (41 reviews)
Raglan getaway
"An absolutely beautiful place, equipped with everything you need and more. We loved the outdoor/indoor set up and the eco-bathroom. The views from the deck & outdoor bath are incredible and it was very peaceful. Jan was really welcoming and made us feel right at home! Hope to be back one day!"
Reviewed on Mar 21, 2024
Sunnynook Cottage Sea Views Top Location, walking distance to town.
Raglan
Stay at this vacation home in Raglan. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (194 reviews)
Sunnynook
"Fabulous location and easy walking distance to the cafes. Quirky old style Bach which is just fabulous. Beautiful views and all the amenities that you need. Great communication with owner. Loved our stay."
Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024
Sunny Elevated (Puriri West Studio) with sea views
Raglan
Stay at this apartment in Raglan. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Whale Bay and Manu Bay Nature Reserve are located nearby.
9.8/10 Exceptional! (26 reviews)
Raglan Paradise
"Gorgeous place for a private getaway, magic views great host☺️"
Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024
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.
Popular places to visit
Manu Bay Nature Reserve
Explore the great outdoors at Manu Bay Nature Reserve, a lovely green space in Raglan. Discover the sunsets and waterfalls in this walkable area.
Raglan & District Museum
You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Raglan & District Museum during your travels in Raglan. Wander the beaches in this relaxing area.
Raglan Golf Club
Enjoy a round of golf in Raglan at Raglan Golf Club. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.
Things to do
Raglan: Scenic Harbour Sunset Cruise
¥5,449
Per adult
Raglan: 2-Hour Surf Lesson
¥7,629
Per adult
Raglan: Sunset Canyoning Tour and Glowworm Experience
¥13,532
Per adult
Raglan: Karioi Canyoning
¥12,624
Per adult
Raglan: Lunchtime Cruise of Raglan Harbour
¥5,449
Per adult
Romantic tour in Hamilton
¥73,280
Per adult
Reviews of Raglan
4.8
Top Destination
4/5 - Good
Verified traveler
Apr 11, 2019This is a very small non tourist town. Not a whole lot of eating options so don’t expect much. The sunsets are amazing though.
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveler
Feb 6, 2019Stayed a extra night. Beautiful area in a relaxing town.