Famed for its beautiful scenery and fascinating wildlife, the town of Kaikōura — and the broader Kaikōura Peninsula — will be a sure-fire hit with outdoorsy travellers eager to soak up the magic of the South Island. With everything from world-class whale watching to hiking, kayaking and golf, guests of all ages will be spoilt for choice when deciding what to see and do. Our expert-recommended selection of the best places to stay in Kaikōura includes cosy B&Bs, eco-pods and luxurious treehouse suites, ideal for a romantic escape or fun trip with friends and family.
Active travellers should head for the lively Esplanade, where you can hire kayaks, SUP boards and snorkelling equipment or arrange diving and fishing charters. Spot sperm whales, humpbacks, pilot whales, and orca during seasonal migrations, along with seals and pelagic birds — including albatross and Hutton’s Shearwaters. Kayak alongside dolphins, enjoy boat tours or take to the air for a bird’s eye view of the Pacific. Hikes amidst the craggy peaks of the Seaward Kaikoura Range or along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway to Point Kean are superb.
Kaikōura itself is a friendly seaside community, with lovely cafés, shops and restaurants. History buffs can visit 19th-century Fyffe House — part of a once-remote whaling station — and Kaikōura Museum, or delve into the region’s past with Maori Tours Kaikōura. Come evening, enjoy beachside sundowners or hide away with a cold glass of NZ Sauvignon Blanc at one of the best places to stay in Kaikōura.
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Kaikoura (Kaikoura)
A chic boutique property offering a spectacular coastal position in Kaikoura. Bright bedrooms are simply decorated in grey and white hues while the picture windows spectacularly frame the views. With friendly hosts, indulgent breakfasts and even a champagne bistro-bar, this property is hard to beat.
Kaikoura
A welcoming B&B in a historic house just five minutes from the beach in Kaikōura. Couples will love the five comfortable rooms & suites, many with stunning sea and mountain views; the leafy garden and hot tub are a real treat. Friendly owners cook up big breakfasts & offer useful local knowledge!
Kaikoura (Kaikoura)
A cosy four-room bungalow with a truly spectacular backdrop. This diminutive lodge in Kaikoura offers spectacular ocean and mountain views. Uncluttered contemporary rooms feature handmade wooden furniture, rain-showers, underfloor heating and scenic private patios.
Kaikoura (Kaikoura)
Marvel at stunning mountain vistas by day and a tapestry of a million stars by night in a beautifully secluded and isolated luxury pod. Excellently outfitted with cooking and bathroom facilities in a thoroughly modern construction perfect for couples seeking a slice of unspoiled rural heaven.
Kaikoura (RD 1)
Contemporary country hotel in Kaikōura, one of NZ’s top whale watching areas. Tree house style rooms with handcrafted wooden beds and furniture, rainforest showers and great views. With a pool, sauna and library, on a deer farm. A great base to explore local wildlife, walks and Maori culture.
