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





Visit Raglan

Raglan Harbour View Hotel
14 BOW STREET Raglan
The price is ¥12,213 per night from Mar 16 to Mar 17
¥12,213
¥14,045 total
Mar 16 - Mar 17
includes taxes & fees
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 ...
7.8/10 Good! (91 reviews)
Not good!! Booked a twin room but was given only one bed. No wifi provided. Common bathroom with only a single shower. Sink in room but no glassware. Very noisy bar downstairs. Emailed the owner but no response. Overall appalling. Will not be back. Not good!!
Reviewed on Mar 8, 2026

Raglan Farmhouse, Amazing Sunsets from massive deck, Spa & Pool
Raglan Raglan
Stay at this farm stay in Raglan. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Old School Arts Centre and Raglan & District Museum are ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (57 reviews)
Great spot! perfect for a get away with friends and family.
Reviewed on Mar 2, 2026

Bow Street Studios
1 Bow St Raglan Waikato
The price is ¥28,582 per night from Mar 15 to Mar 16
¥28,582
¥33,399 total
Mar 15 - Mar 16
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this beach apartment in Raglan. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and balconies or patios. Popular attractions Raglan & District Museum and Old School ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (53 reviews)
Excellent location. Situated on the waterside, east walking to local cafes, shops, walks. Premises clean and plenty of space. 2bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, very serviceable, decor could use a refresh, however we spent most of our time out and about seeing the sites. Would definitely recommend
Reviewed on Feb 20, 2026
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.

Bow Street Studios
1 Bow St Raglan Waikato
Book a stay at this beach apartment in Raglan. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and balconies or patios. Popular attractions Raglan & District Museum and Old School ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (53 reviews)
Excellent location. Situated on the waterside, east walking to local cafes, shops, walks. Premises clean and plenty of space. 2bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, very serviceable, decor could use a refresh, however we spent most of our time out and about seeing the sites. Would definitely recommend
Reviewed on Feb 20, 2026

The Gazebo at Ribbonwood Farm
Raglan Waikato
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 ...
10/10 Exceptional! (59 reviews)
This place is AMAZING!! I wish I’d stayed longer. Absolutely gorgeous, peaceful, and relaxing. Loved the nature experience. I didn’t want to leave this morning!!!
Reviewed on Feb 8, 2026

Sunnynook Cottage Sea Views Top Location, walking distance to town.
Raglan Waikato District
Stay at this cottage in Raglan. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Old School Arts Centre and Raglan & District Museum are ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (368 reviews)
It was a bach with real character and at the same time had everything you needed
Reviewed on Feb 21, 2026
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 Golf Club
Enjoy a round of golf in Raglan at Raglan Golf Club. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.
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.
Things to do

Raglan: Sunset Canyoning Tour and Glowworm Experience
¥13,856
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Reviews of Raglan
4.8
Top Destination
4/5 - Good
Verified traveler
This 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
Stayed a extra night. Beautiful area in a relaxing town.
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