Tahunanui is Nelson's main town beach, a long curve of pale sand on Tasman Bay backed by dunes and a reserve. The water is shallow for a long way out, which makes it safe for children and easy for paddling, but means swimming for serious adults requires patience or low tide.
In summer it is the social centre of the town: an outdoor playground, mini golf, an ice cream van, families on rugs, the inevitable kite. Out of season it is excellent for long flat walks with a view across to the Kahurangi mountains. Pohara and Kaiteriteri to the north are prettier beaches but require a drive; Tahunanui is the one you can walk to from town.