PHOTO GALLERY: Spectacular Tunnel Beach – Dunedin, New Zealand

2015/01/24

spectacular coastline at Tunnel Beach – Dunedin – New Zealand

PHOTO GALLERY:

Spectacular Tunnel Beach – Dunedin, New Zealand

Tunnel Beach is situated just south of Dunedin, New Zealand, on the east coast of South Island. As its name implies, Tunnel Beach is famous for its unusual stone tunnel. The rough-hewn solid-rock tunnel was commissioned by Parliament Member John Cargill in the 1800s to give his family access to a petite golden beach that’s situated at the base of soaring limestone cliffs.

Although the steep pedestrian tunnel is impressive, Tunnel Beach’s most spectacular features are its stunning limestone cliffs, offshore rock stacks and a sparkling-clear turquoise sea.

the Tunnel

Visitors can access the gorgeous stretch of coastline, famous tunnel and golden beach by hiking down a steep incline through private farmland along a well-designated path. The trail then meanders through lush fields along the top of cliffs, offering jaw-dropping views of white limestone cliffs and various rock formations.

Eventually walkers arrive at the impressive rock tunnel, climb down an extremely steep set of stone steps then emerge onto a beautiful little beach and more jaw-dropping scenery.

The beach is surrounded on three sides by vertical white and yellow cliffs. A few caves have been carved into the rocks by constantly crashing sea water. Boulders are strewn about the sand and the sea is the most sublime shade of translucent turquoise.

Not surprisingly, the beach is popular with both locals and travelers, who flock there on clear sunny days to admire the amazing scenery and perhaps take a swim, though the sea currents are reported to be quite dangerous. Maybe best to stay onshore gazing at the cliffs than risk the turbulent waters.

This photo gallery presents 15 images from my recent visit.

See Photos of Tunnel Beach

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