These Are the Best Things to Do in Kaikoura (2025)

Known for its abundant marine life, New Zealand‘s coastal town of Kaikoura is a dream location for ecotourism and nature lovers. The area is home to wild dolphins, whales and a large fur seal colony – this year there were a record 201 whale sightings here in one month. I visited Kaikoura as part of my 3 week South Island itinerary and had incredible experiences I will never forget. Here are my recommendations of the best things to do in Kaikoura, as well as my personal stories from my magical time here.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means, if you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, read my disclaimer.

Quick overview of the best things to do in Kaikoura

• Go whale watching to see giant sperm whales up close
• Swim with wild dolphins in their natural habitat
• See the huge fur seal colony
• Go kayaking along the dramatic coastline
• Try paddleboarding and surfing in calm bay waters
• Feel the rush ziplining through lush forests
• Hike stunning coastal trails like the Peninsula Walkway
• Go stargazing in the pristine Dark Sky Sanctuary skies
• Visit Kaikoura Museum to step back in time
• Taste fresh local seafood, especially famous crayfish

What makes Kaikoura special?

Just a kilometre from the coast of Kaikoura, the seashore plunges dramatically into what’s known as the Kaikoura Canyon, reaching depths of over 1,000 metres. These nutrient-rich deep waters attract an incredible diversity of marine life – 10 to 100 times that of other deep sea habitats.

This means you don’t need to travel far out to sea to go whale watching – here you can spot giant sperm whales just minutes from shore enjoying the deep waters, along with dolphins, seals, and seabirds. As a result, Kaikoura is one of the world’s most accessible marine wildlife viewing destinations.

Thanks to its clear skies, the town has also been recognised as one of the best places for stargazing – it’s one of the world’s newest dark sky sanctuaries.

This combination of unique geography, abundant wildlife and pristine dark skies makes Kaikoura unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Planning what to do in Kaikoura

With world-class whale watching, accessible hiking trails and high-adrenaline activities available year-round, Kaikoura is perfect for adventurous nature lovers. Its marine wildlife encounters – especially with whales and dolphins – are the main draw. Plan at least two days here to make the most of all the amazing things to do in Kaikoura.

Go whale watching

You can book a whale-watching experience in Kaikoura to see these massive creatures up close. The boats are designed with quiet engines to minimise disturbance to marine life, while the crew share fascinating insights about whale behaviour.

During the cruise, you may also spot fur seals basking on rocks, wild dolphins and endangered albatross.

What I loved about the experience is that everyone gets a good view, can take photos and has the chance to ask questions. It’s the most special thing to be able to see these magnificent beings in the wild.

Book your two-hour whale-watching experience in Kaikoura here.

My whale-watching experience

Once our team established that conditions were conducive to a safe trip out to sea, they gave us a briefing of what to expect. We boarded a bus to the harbour and made ourselves comfortable on the boat as it sped out to sea.

The giant sperm whale we were going to spot on our whale watching in Kaikoura was Tiaki, the largest whale in the area. He has been swimming in the local waters for 25 years. Every 45 minutes to an hour, we were told, Tiaki would surface to inhale oxygen, before making his descent back to the depths.

We were lucky enough to see Tiaki breach the water twice. He was reaching the surface as we arrived and our boat stuck around so we could see him ascend again. The second time, after releasing a few spurts of water, he inhaled and arched his back – at which point the team told us he was about to dive down.

Then, Tiaki gave us the money shot – his enormous tail curling and reaching up into the air, as he descended to the bottom of the ocean. Simply magical.

Experience this popular Kaikoura whale-watching trip for yourself – book it in advance here.

Swim with dolphins in the wild

The waters off Kaikoura are home to dusky dolphins, known for their acrobatic flips and curious nature. Swimming with wild dolphins in Kaikoura is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to meet these intelligent and playful creatures in their natural habitat.

Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura is New Zealand’s first company to offer swimming with dolphins and they have one of the highest success rates in the world for dolphin encounters. Unlike commercialised ‘swim with dolphins’ programs, this ethical encounter takes place entirely on the dolphins’ terms, for a truly authentic and unforgettable adventure.

My dolphin encounter experience

My day with Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura started at 5:30 am on an overcast day. After getting briefed on how to ‘sing’ to the dolphins, I suited up in a full-body wetsuit. As we sailed out, we spotted a huge albatross before finally seeing fins breaking the water.

As we sat on the back of the boat with our snorkel gear, ready to drop off the edge into the sea, it seemed unreal that we were about to go swimming in the natural habitat of these beautiful and intelligent wild creatures.

Once in the sea, I waved the long flippers on my feet and did my best dolphin noises to hopefully attract them. My heart skipped a beat when two dolphins passed just inches from my face. Occasionally when I looked up, I could see that there were dozens of dolphins playing in the water around our group of about twenty. The team had advised us not to touch them, but sometimes one of these powerful mammals would nudge into my leg and I would squeal, partly from delight, partly from fear.

We did three swims in total, as the boat would approach a pod of dolphins and drop us in. The whole experience was incredible and, honestly, felt like a dream.

See fur seals up close

One of Kaikoura’s most accessible wildlife experiences is visiting the large fur seal colony at the peninsula’s tip. Unlike the marine tours, this incredible encounter is completely free and available year-round, making it perfect for budget travellers or when weather conditions cancel boat trips.

The New Zealand fur seals here are completely wild but remarkably relaxed around visitors. You can watch mothers nursing their pups, playful juveniles wrestling on the rocks and massive bulls basking in the sun. During pupping season (December to February), the colony is particularly active with hundreds of seals hauled out on the rocky shores.

The seals are easily reached via the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, or you can drive to the Point Kean car park for closer access. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit when the seals are most active and the light is perfect for photography.

Remember to maintain a respectful distance (at least 10 meters) as these are wild animals that can move surprisingly fast when startled. During breeding season, adult males can be particularly protective of their territory.

Reserve your spot on a guided seal-watching tour by pedal kayak in Kaikoura.

Go kayaking in Kaikoura

Kayaking in Kaikoura is a peaceful way to explore its stunning coastline and encounter fur seals, dolphins and other marine life. You can paddle alongside fur seals and spot dolphins in their natural habitat.

Some guided kayak tours even venture to areas where little blue penguins nest. They cater to different fitness levels and no previous kayaking experience is required. There are also pedal kayaks available, if that’s more your style.

Book your place on a wonderful sunset kayaking tour of Kaikoura here.

Try paddleboarding and surfing

Stand-up paddleboarding is popular in Kaikoura’s calmer bay waters, where you can enjoy mountain views while paddling. It’s an excellent way to explore the coastline at your own pace.

For wave lovers, there are several surf breaks around Kaikoura suitable for different skill levels. Local surf schools cater to beginners with lessons and equipment hire, while experienced surfers can explore the more challenging breaks along the peninsula.

Feel the rush on a ziplining adventure

For an adrenaline-packed experience, try ziplining near Kaikoura. Soar through the area’s beautiful forests and enjoy incredible views as you soar from platform to platform.

Local adventure companies offer zip-lining adventures that combine heart-pumping excitement with breathtaking scenery. It’s a thrilling way to see the area from a whole new perspective.

Book your place on a popular zip-lining and forest adventure trip in Kaikoura here.

Hike Kaikoura’s stunning trails

Hikers will love Kaikoura’s incredible coastal walks and mountain climbs. The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a 2-3 hour trail along dramatic cliffs, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and opportunities to see the local fur seals.

For a more challenging adventure, scaling Mount Fyffe rewards you with sweeping views of the peninsula, ocean and surrounding mountains. If you prefer a shorter trek, the Mount Fyffe Hut walk gives you a taste of the alpine scenery without the full climb.

Go stargazing in its pristine night skies

Kaikoura has been officially recognised as one of the world’s newest Dark Sky Sanctuaries, making it one of the most pristine stargazing locations on the planet.

With minimal light pollution and exceptionally clear skies, the night sky here reveals thousands of stars, planets and celestial phenomena invisible in most places.

The best stargazing spots include the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway and elevated areas around Mount Fyffe. Winter months (June-August) are ideal due to longer nights and clearer skies. You can explore the Southern Hemisphere’s unique constellations like the Southern Cross, or watch for meteor showers throughout the year.

Several local operators run guided astronomy tours where knowledgeable guides use telescopes to show you planets, star clusters, and galaxies up close. These tours combine Māori star lore with modern astronomy for a truly enriching experience.

Step back in time at Kaikoura Museum

For a glimpse into the town’s history and culture, the Kaikoura Museum offers engaging exhibits that cover everything from the town’s Māori heritage to its history as a whaling settlement. The museum also showcases the story of Kaikoura’s remarkable recovery after the 2016 earthquake, highlighting the resilience of its community.

Taste the local seafood

Kaikoura is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly crayfish. In fact, Kaikoura is named after it (“kai” means food and “koura” means crayfish in Māori). Visit roadside seafood shacks or local restaurants for a taste of this regional specialty. Don’t miss the chance to try fish and chips with a view of the ocean.

Kaikoura Seafood BBQ is a top-rated food truck style operation serving freshly grilled seafood including crayfish, paua (abalone) and green-lipped mussels. Alternatively, try Nin’s Bin, an iconic roadside seafood shack about 30 minutes north of town – it’s legendary among locals. Their fresh crayfish is caught daily and the quality is unmatched. Coopers Catch is a local favourite, perfect for fish and chips by the beach. Their blue cod is particularly recommended.

The Pier Hotel Restaurant is a historic venue that combines traditional pub atmosphere with excellent seafood. Their crayfish chowder is famous throughout the region and they often feature catch-of-the-day specials from local fishing boats.

How to get to Kaikoura

Kaikoura is located on New Zealand’s South Island, roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Christchurch or a 2-hour drive from Picton. The scenic coastal route from Christchurch is particularly beautiful, winding along dramatic clifftops and through charming seaside towns.

The scenic Coastal Pacific train is a relaxing alternative, running between Christchurch and Picton with a stop in Kaikoura. This journey showcases some of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastal and mountain scenery. Several bus companies also operate regular services from major South Island cities.

If you are flying into Christchurch, you can rent a car from the airport or join an organised day trip from Christchurch that includes transport to Kaikoura. Check out my complete guide to Christchurch for detailed recommendations.

Where to stay in Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a small coastal town with a permanent resident population of only 2,500 people. The best area to stay in Kaikoura is near the town centre for easy access to shops, restaurants and tour operators for whale watching and other activities.

Located a two-minute walk from Kaikoura’s town centre and beach, the Dolphin Lodge has cosy private rooms and dorms. Guests can use the shared kitchen, outdoor deck and garden with BBQ facilities. Set directly on the beach, Kaikoura Seaside Lodge has comfortable dorms and family rooms. With shared kitchen facilities, a playground and ocean views, it’s a convenient base for exploring local attractions.

Housed in a historic 1880s building, the beachfront Kaikoura Boutique Hotel combines classic charm with modern amenities. Located a 10-minute walk from Kaikoura Town, its rooms have refrigerators and 32-inch flat-screen TVs.

Known as the best B&B in Kaikoura, the Te Mahuru Retreat is ideal if you want a peaceful getaway a little out of the town centre. It has scenic mountain views, a sun terrace and even an outdoor hot tub.

Explore the map below to find the best accommodation deals for your dates in Kaikoura:

The best time to visit Kaikoura

The destination welcomes visitors year-round, but your experience will vary with the seasons. Summer (December to February) brings warmer weather, perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife encounters.

Winter (June to August) is excellent for Kaikoura and often underrated. This is the best time for spotting migrating humpback whales and orcas, plus ideal conditions for stargazing with longer nights and clearer skies. The weather remains pleasant for hiking, and you’ll encounter fewer crowds. Hot springs day trips to Hanmer Springs are particularly appealing during cooler months.

The shoulder seasons of spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) provide the perfect balance with mild weather, fewer crowds, and good wildlife viewing opportunities. Always check the weather forecast, as sea tours depend on conditions.

What to pack for Kaikoura

The weather in Kaikoura can change rapidly, especially out at sea. Bring layers, including a waterproof jacket, warm clothing and sturdy shoes for walks and hikes. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses and swimwear for sunny days on the water.

If you’re heading out to sea for whale watching or dolphin tours, bring seasickness remedies like ginger tablets, acupressure wristbands or medication to avoid discomfort on choppy waters. I definitely needed this on the whale-watching trip.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Kaikoura

How many days should I spend in Kaikoura?

I’d recommend spending 2-3 days in Kaikoura – this allows enough time for whale watching and swimming with dolphins – both incredible once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Stay longer to check out all the other fantastic things to do in Kaikoura.

How do you spend a day in Kaikoura?

A perfect day starts with early morning whale watching (3-4 hours), followed by a freshly-caught seafood lunch in town. Spend the afternoon hiking the Peninsula Walkway to see the fur seal colony. After dark, it’s time for stargazing in the area’s pristine night skies.

What to do in Kaikoura on a rainy day?

If the weather conditions mean you can’t go out to sea, check out the Kaikoura Museum. This is the perfect place to learn about the local Māori culture and natural history.

What are the best things to do in Kaikoura in winter?

Winter (June-August) is actually excellent for Kaikoura. This is prime time for spotting migrating humpback whales and orcas. The weather is cooler but still pleasant for hiking, and stargazing conditions are at their best with longer nights and clearer skies.

What are the free things to do in Kaikoura?

You don’t need to spend money to enjoy Kaikoura’s local wildlife and nature. Why not visit the fur seal colony at Point Kean – best viewing is early morning or late afternoon when they’re most active. You can also hike the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway for stunning ocean views and go stargazing in the area’s designated Dark Sky Sanctuary.

What should I bring for marine wildlife tours?

Pack warm, layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear and seasickness remedies. Most tour operators supply wetsuits for dolphin swimming. Don’t forget a waterproof case for your camera or phone.

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Kaikoura

Kaikoura gives you the opportunity to connect with the natural world in a way that few places allow. This place gives you space to pause, reflect and marvel at our planet’s natural wonders.

Watching Tiaki the whale breach the water and feeling the playful brush of dolphins were absolute bucket-list experiences that I will never forget.

There are so many incredible things to do in Kaikoura – I highly recommend it.

Now, check out more of New Zealand’s natural beauty in this epic South Island itinerary.