Discover the Wonders of Kaikoura Seal Colony
Experience the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's Kaikoura Seal Colony, where stunning coastal views and playful seals await every visitor.
The Kaikoura Seal Colony offers a breathtaking experience for tourists, showcasing the stunning coastal scenery and abundant wildlife of New Zealand. Visitors are treated to close encounters with New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat, making this a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Kaikoura Seal Colony
- Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, Kaikōura, Kaikōura Peninsula, 7300, NZ
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chance to see seals active and basking.
- Bring binoculars for a closer view of seals and other wildlife without disturbing their natural behavior.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the scenic walkway and ensure safety on rocky terrain.
- Respect the wildlife by keeping a safe distance and not feeding or touching the seals.
- Check weather conditions before your visit to ensure a pleasant walking experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Kaikoura Visitor Centre located at 96 West End, head east along West End Street towards the esplanade. Turn left onto the esplanade and continue walking along the coastline until you reach the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway entrance. The walk will take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on your pace.
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Public Bus
Catch the Kaikoura Shuttle Service from the main bus stop located at 1 West End, Kaikoura. The bus will take you along the coast, and you should request to get off at the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway stop. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes, and from there, you can follow the signs to the Kaikoura Seal Colony.
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Bicycle Rental
Rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops in Kaikoura, such as Kaikoura Bike Hire located at 62 Beach Road. From there, cycle south along Beach Road until you reach the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway. It’s a scenic route that will take about 10-15 minutes by bike.
Discover more about Kaikoura Seal Colony
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Point Kean Viewpoint
0.6 km
Discover the stunning coastal views and natural beauty at Point Kean Viewpoint in Kaikōura, a must-see tourist attraction.
Whalers Bay
0.9 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty of Whalers Bay on the Kaikōura Peninsula, a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Kaikoura Peninsula
1.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Kaikoura Peninsula, where stunning landscapes, rich marine life, and vibrant Māori culture await your discovery.
Historic Chimney
1.4 km
Discover the Historic Chimney in Kaikōura, a remarkable landmark that showcases the region's rich history and stunning coastal scenery.
Kaikoura Lookout
2.1 km
Discover the stunning beauty of New Zealand at Kaikoura Lookout, where ocean and mountain meet for breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
The Anchor Inn Beachfront Motel Kaikoura
2.4 km
Experience the stunning coastal beauty of Kaikoura at The Anchor Inn Beachfront Motel, perfect for relaxation and adventure seekers alike.
Encounter Kaikoura (Dolphin Encounter)
3.1 km
Discover the magic of swimming with dolphins at Encounter Kaikoura, where stunning coastal views meet unforgettable marine adventures.
The White Morph
3.2 km
Experience coastal tranquility at The White Morph in Kaikōura, your gateway to marine adventures and breathtaking views of nature.
Kaikoura Kayaks
3.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kaikoura's coastline while kayaking with dolphins and seals at Kaikoura Kayaks, an eco-friendly adventure.
Kaikoura Beach
3.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant marine life at Kaikoura Beach, New Zealand's coastal gem perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Destination Kaikōura
3.7 km
Explore Kaikōura: A Coastal Paradise of Adventure, Marine Life, and Stunning Natural Landscapes.
Kaikoura Museum
3.8 km
Uncover the captivating history and culture of Kaikoura at the local history museum, where stories of the sea, land, and people come alive.
Seal Swim Kaikoura
4.0 km
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable marine adventure at Seal Swim Kaikoura, where you can swim with playful New Zealand fur seals in their stunning natural habitat.
Crayfest Kaikoura
4.2 km
Discover a culinary paradise at Crayfest Kaikoura, where the freshest seafood meets vibrant community spirit amidst stunning coastal views.
Seal Kayak Kaikoura
4.3 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and vibrant marine life of Kaikoura with Seal Kayak Kaikoura's unforgettable kayaking tours.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wood Teepee
0.5 km
Experience the Wood Teepee in Kaikōura Peninsula: A captivating blend of nature and culture awaits at this unique tourist attraction.
Kaikoura Recreation Reserve
0.5 km
Explore the scenic Kaikoura Recreation Reserve, a coastal gem with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and perfect spots for relaxation and adventure.
Path to Whalers Bay Lookout
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking views at Whalers Bay Lookout, a must-visit hiking destination on the stunning Kaikōura Peninsula in New Zealand.
Seal beach
1.0 km
Discover the stunning Seal Beach on the Kaikōura Peninsula, where breathtaking views and playful seals create unforgettable memories.
Dr James A Mills
1.1 km
Discover breathtaking coastal views and invigorating hikes at Dr. James A Mills Observation Deck on the beautiful Kaikōura Peninsula.
Fyffe House
1.4 km
Explore the rich history of Kaikōura at Fyffe House, a captivating heritage museum showcasing the lives of early settlers and their enduring legacy.
Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway
1.8 km
Explore the stunning Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, a scenic trail featuring breathtaking coastal views and abundant wildlife on New Zealand's South Island.
Peninsula Walk
2.0 km
Discover the stunning coastal views and vibrant wildlife while hiking the breathtaking Peninsula Walk in South Bay, Kaikōura.
Kaikoura water tower lookout.
2.1 km
Discover stunning views and serene landscapes at the Kaikoura Water Tower Lookout, a must-visit attraction for nature lovers in New Zealand.
South Bay Recreation Reserve
2.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene trails of South Bay Recreation Reserve in Canterbury, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
The Rod Father
2.5 km
Explore the stunning marine life and fishing adventures at The Rod Father, a premier tourist attraction in the picturesque Kaikōura region of New Zealand.
Anzac Park
3.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and poignant history of Anzac Park in Kaikōura, a serene spot for reflection and relaxation with stunning coastal views.
Kaikoura Town Lookout
3.7 km
Discover stunning coastal views and the natural beauty of Kaikoura at the scenic lookout, a must-visit spot for every traveler.
Kaikoura Town Clock
3.8 km
Discover the Kaikoura Town Clock, a historical landmark surrounded by stunning coastal and mountain views, perfect for memorable photographs.
Maori Tours Kaikoura
3.9 km
Explore Maori Tours Kaikoura for an authentic cultural experience that connects you with New Zealand's indigenous heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Kaikoura Seafood BBQ Kiosk
1.1 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Kaikoura Seafood BBQ Kiosk – where stunning views meet delicious flavors in New Zealand's coastal paradise.
Green Dolphin Restaurant and Bar
1.8 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Green Dolphin Restaurant and Bar in Kaikōura - where ocean views meet exquisite cuisine.
Hiku
3.1 km
Discover Hiku: A delightful restaurant in Kaikōura serving fresh local cuisine with stunning coastal views.
King Tide Eatery
3.7 km
Discover King Tide Eatery in Kaikōura – where fresh local seafood meets breathtaking coastal views.
Crêpes Ooh lala
3.9 km
Savor gourmet crêpes crafted from fresh local ingredients at Crêpes Ooh Lala in Kaikōura - a must-visit culinary delight on your travels.
Roti Overdrive
3.9 km
Discover Roti Overdrive in Kaikōura - where fresh flavors meet convenience in delightful roti wraps.
Kaikoura Sushi
3.9 km
Experience the best of Japanese cuisine at Kaikoura Sushi with fresh sushi rolls and delectable fried chicken takeaway options.
Street Eats Kaikoura
3.9 km
Discover authentic Asian cuisine at Street Eats Kaikoura - where delicious flavors meet stunning coastal views.
The Craypot Kitchen & Bar Kaikoura
3.9 km
Experience fresh local seafood and stunning coastal views at The Craypot Kitchen & Bar in Kaikoura - a culinary gem on New Zealand's coast.
The Whaler Bar and Restaurant
4.0 km
Experience coastal dining at The Whaler Bar and Restaurant in Kaikōura - fresh seafood, local flavors, and stunning ocean views await you.
Groper Garage Bar & Restaurant
4.0 km
Experience the flavors of Kaikōura at Groper Garage Bar & Restaurant - where fresh seafood meets vibrant hospitality.
Zephyr Restaurant, Kaikoura - Open daily from 5.30pm
4.0 km
Experience exceptional dining at Zephyr Restaurant in Kaikoura with fresh local cuisine and stunning ocean views.
Strawberry Tree Kaikoura Ltd.
4.1 km
Experience fresh seafood delights and vibrant live music at Strawberry Tree Kaikoura - a must-visit culinary gem in New Zealand.
Fish & Chips
4.1 km
Savor fresh fish & chips with stunning ocean views in Kaikōura—where local flavors meet coastal beauty.
Coopers Catch
4.1 km
Savor the freshest seafood at Coopers Catch in Kaikōura – where every bite is a taste of New Zealand's coastal charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
My Tassel
3.9 km
Explore My Tassel in Kaikōura for exquisite handcrafted jewelry inspired by New Zealand's beauty, perfect for gifts or personal treasures.
Jade Kiwi
3.9 km
Shop at Jade Kiwi for unique New Zealand gifts, locally crafted souvenirs, and the perfect memento from your Kaikōura adventure.
Little Rock
3.9 km
Explore Little Rock Souvenir Store in Kaikōura for unique keepsakes reflecting New Zealand's rich culture and stunning landscapes.
West End Clothing Co
4.0 km
Explore the unique fashion offerings of West End Clothing Co in Kaikōura, a perfect stop for stylish souvenirs and local treasures.
Middlehurst Station Farm Store
4.0 km
Explore Middlehurst Station Farm Store for fresh local produce, artisanal delights, and a glimpse into sustainable farming in scenic Kaikōura.
Genevieves
4.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Genevieves in Kaikōura, a perfect destination for memorable souvenirs.
Addy & Lou
4.0 km
Explore Addy & Lou in Kaikōura for an unforgettable shopping experience featuring local crafts, baby clothing, and home goods.
Blossom Boutique
4.0 km
Explore Blossom Boutique, a treasure trove of unique local crafts and stylish apparel in scenic Kaikōura, New Zealand.
Paper Plus Kaikoura
4.0 km
Explore Paper Plus Kaikoura: Your one-stop destination for books, local art, and unique gifts in a charming coastal town.
Kaikoura Pharmacy
4.0 km
Visit Kaikoura Pharmacy for health essentials and local souvenirs in the heart of Kaikōura, New Zealand.
Gecko Gearz
4.0 km
Explore unique fashion at Gecko Gearz in Kaikoura, where local style meets coastal charm, perfect for tourists seeking memorable apparel.
Abbey Road
4.0 km
Explore a charming clothing store in Kaikōura offering stylish apparel at reasonable prices, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Ula
4.1 km
Discover Ula in Kaikōura: Your go-to gift shop for unique clothing, jewelry, and delightful souvenirs that capture the spirit of New Zealand.
Kaikoura Container Mall
4.1 km
Explore the Kaikoura Container Mall: A unique shopping destination filled with local crafts, delicious bites, and a laid-back atmosphere amidst stunning coastal views.
Tummy Time
4.1 km
Explore Tummy Time in Kaikoura for a delightful selection of quality baby products perfect for your little ones.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Pier Hotel
1.8 km
Experience the beauty of Kaikōura at The Pier Hotel, where stunning ocean views meet cozy accommodations and delicious local cuisine.
Lobster Inn Tavern
5.2 km
Discover the Lobster Inn Tavern in Kaikōura for fresh seafood, lively atmosphere, and stunning coastal views that enhance your New Zealand adventure.
Donegal House
8.5 km
Discover the charm of Donegal House in Kaikoura Flat, a cozy hotel experience surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kaikoura Boating & Fishing Club (Inc)
2.3 km
Experience the breathtaking marine adventures at Kaikoura Boating & Fishing Club, where the ocean meets vibrant local culture.
Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
2.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and nature at Kaikoura Boutique Hotel, where stunning ocean views meet warm hospitality.
Kaikoura Trotting Club
3.3 km
Discover the thrill of horse racing at Kaikoura Trotting Club, where excitement meets stunning coastal views in New Zealand.
Kaikoura Bowling Club
4.3 km
Discover the charm of lawn bowling at Kaikoura Bowling Club, a community hub surrounded by breathtaking coastal views.
Kaikoura Golf Club
6.2 km
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Kaikoura Golf Club, where breathtaking landscapes and exceptional golfing experience await you.
Air Kaikoura Aero Club
9.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kaikoura from the skies with Air Kaikoura Aero Club, your premier whale watching tour agency.
Marlborough Golf Club
100.0 km
Discover Marlborough Golf Club: A Scenic Course Offering Unmatched Beauty and a Warm Community Spirit in New Zealand.
