Raglan

Travel Guide
Photo provided by The Mighty Waikato
The best surf in the country, a nice selection of cafés and galleries and a relaxed bohemian feel make this harbor town a hard place to leave.

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 Harbour View Hotel
Raglan Harbour View Hotel
2.5 out of 5
14 BOW STREET, Raglan
The price is ¥11,863 per night from Nov 6 to Nov 7
¥11,863
¥13,642 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 6 - Nov 7
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 ...
7.4/10 Good! (59 reviews)
"Great pub"

Reviewed on Sep 12, 2024

Raglan Harbour View Hotel
Sunnynook Cottage Sea Views Top Location, walking distance to town.
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. Popular attractions Old School Arts Centre and Raglan & District ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (207 reviews)
Fabulous Spot
"Sunny nook is a fabulous place to stay. The accommodation is perfectly bach-like, so comfortable with tasteful furnishings and lovely linen. The views over Raglan Harbour are beautiful and its location next to town makes for easy access to all amenities. I felt instantly relaxed the moment i arrived ..."

Reviewed on Oct 18, 2024

Sunnynook Cottage Sea Views Top Location, walking distance to town.
🌴🍍Raglan Studios The Pineapple Palace
🌴🍍Raglan Studios The Pineapple Palace
Raglan
The price is ¥8,367 per night from Nov 24 to Nov 25
¥8,367
¥17,536 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 24 - Nov 25
Stay at this apartment in Raglan. Enjoy free WiFi. Popular attractions Old School Arts Centre and Raglan & District Museum are located nearby.
"Pineapple Palace was just what we need after a long day driving. Special mention about how environmentally friendly this room was. There was very little plastic, bedding was wool and cotton and all products were plant based. The bed was very comfortable, all communication was clear and quick. Thanks ..."

Reviewed on Jul 7, 2024

🌴🍍Raglan Studios The Pineapple Palace
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.
Sunnynook Cottage Sea Views Top Location, walking distance to town.
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. Popular attractions Old School Arts Centre and Raglan & District ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (207 reviews)
Fabulous Spot
"Sunny nook is a fabulous place to stay. The accommodation is perfectly bach-like, so comfortable with tasteful furnishings and lovely linen. The views over Raglan Harbour are beautiful and its location next to town makes for easy access to all amenities. I felt instantly relaxed the moment i arrived ..."

Reviewed on Oct 18, 2024

Sunnynook Cottage Sea Views Top Location, walking distance to town.
🌴🍍Raglan Studios The Pineapple Palace
🌴🍍Raglan Studios The Pineapple Palace
Raglan
Stay at this apartment in Raglan. Enjoy free WiFi. Popular attractions Old School Arts Centre and Raglan & District Museum are located nearby.
"Pineapple Palace was just what we need after a long day driving. Special mention about how environmentally friendly this room was. There was very little plastic, bedding was wool and cotton and all products were plant based. The bed was very comfortable, all communication was clear and quick. Thanks ..."

Reviewed on Jul 7, 2024

🌴🍍Raglan Studios The Pineapple Palace
The Gazebo at Ribbonwood Farm
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! (44 reviews)
Awesome time! Beautiful place very comfy!
"Great spot, such a great place to stay. Has everything you need. Loved the bath and the views, the dogs had a great time too! Thanks very much! Great to see you again Jan!"

Reviewed on Oct 28, 2024

The Gazebo at Ribbonwood Farm
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.

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Reviews of Raglan

4.8
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
4
" "5 - Excellent 80%
4 - Good
1
" "4 - Good 20%
3 - Okay
0
" "3 - Okay 0%
2 - Disappointing
0
" "2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
" "1 - Terrible 0%

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.