Porpoise Bay
A curved surfing beach next to Curio Bay, where endangered Hector's dolphins, the world's smallest dolphins, often swim in the surf in summer and autumn.
Porpoise Bay is separated from Curio Bay by a single headland. Its long beach is good for surfing and walking. In summer and autumn, Hector's dolphins, the world's smallest and an endangered species, often enter the bay to feed and sometimes approach surfers and swimmers. When watching them, do not chase or touch the dolphins. Just stay quiet. The bay has campsites, holiday homes and cafés, making it a base for accommodation in the southern Catlins.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Curio Bay Petrified Forest
- Slope Point
- McLean Falls
- Cathedral Caves (Waipati)
- Waipapa Point Lighthouse
- Lake Wilkie
- Florence Hill Lookout
- The Lost Gypsy Gallery