Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve
Bushy Beach Scenic Reserve
Oamaru, New Zealand
Last updated: February 11, 2026
Opening Hours
Visitor Reviews
**★★★★★ Joshua Harnwell — a week ago
Plenty of sea lions. They were very relaxed and tired when we were there. There is also a bird hide to get a good view. We went in the morning and didn’t see any penguins.
**★★★★★ Adam Thompson — 3 months ago
Waited around an hour to see the penguins but wasn't disappointed, little guy hopped out of the ocean at around 6:30PM. Take your patience and some binoculars and you're in for a treat!
**★★★★☆ Maxi Schumann — 2 months ago
This is a truly lovely reserve. We arrived around 1:30 PM and were happy to spot seals from the observation hut. Binoculars would be of advantage, but it's also possible to see them without. :) We’re also planning to return in the evening to try and catch a glimpse of the penguins.
The hut provides essential information, though it would be helpful to also display that information at the beach entrance. Apparently, from November through the end of February, it’s chick-rearing season, and visitor
**★★★★☆ KL Williams — 2 months ago
Great views, the track to the right after you enter is very steep and wouldn’t work for children or anyone who doesn’t hike regularly also this track and the beach cannot be accessed after 3pm. The track to left is not as sloped and the view is pretty good. Parking is very limited and there are NO DOGS ALLOWED.
**★★★★☆ Naomi Goldstein — a year ago
Saw 1 yellow penguin get out of the water at 20:30, around 12 seals, and a lot of ducks and swallows flying around. It gets very chilly and windy, you should bring some warm clothes, and binoculars if you have. Nice view of the beach, free parking nearby.
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