Whale Watch Kaikoura: An Oceanic Adventure Awaits
Experience the thrill of whale watching in Kaikoura, New Zealand's premier destination for marine wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and local culture.
Whale Watch Kaikoura offers an exhilarating opportunity to observe majestic whales in their natural habitat. This coastal gem is a must-see for any nature-loving tourist, blending breathtaking ocean views with the thrill of marine wildlife encounters. With options for whale watching tours, a cozy cafe, and a souvenir store, it's a complete package for an unforgettable day out in New Zealand.
A brief summary to Whale Watch Kaikoura
- Whaleway Station Rd, Kaikōura, 7340, NZ
- +6433196767
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book your whale watching tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
- Dress in layers; the weather can change quickly on the water, and it can get chilly.
- Bring binoculars for a closer look at the whales and other marine life.
- Consider taking a morning tour when the sea is often calmer for better viewing conditions.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and unforgettable whale sightings.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Kaikoura Visitor Centre located at 96 West End, head south on West End towards the Esplanade. Continue walking straight for about 5 minutes until you reach the Esplanade. Turn left and walk along the beach, enjoying the scenic views. Continue on the Esplanade for approximately 1 kilometer until you reach the end of the beach. Here, you will see signs directing you to Whaleway Station Road. Take the path that leads up to Whaleway Station Road. Walk straight on Whaleway Station Road for about 800 meters. Whale Watch Kaikoura will be on your left at the address Whaleway Station Road, Kaikōura 7340.
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Bicycle
You can rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops in Kaikoura. Start at the Kaikoura Visitor Centre located at 96 West End. Cycle south along West End towards the Esplanade. Continue along the Esplanade until you reach the end of the beach (approximately 1 kilometer). At the end of the beach, you will see signs for Whaleway Station Road. Turn onto Whaleway Station Road and continue cycling for about 800 meters. Whale Watch Kaikoura will be located on your left at Whaleway Station Road, Kaikōura 7340.
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Public Transport
Catch the local bus service that runs through Kaikoura. You can board the bus at the Kaikoura Bus Stop located near the Kaikoura Visitor Centre at 96 West End. Ask the driver to drop you off at the intersection of Whaleway Station Road. Once you get off, walk along Whaleway Station Road for about 300 meters, and you will find Whale Watch Kaikoura on your left at Whaleway Station Road, Kaikōura 7340.
Discover more about Whale Watch Kaikoura
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park
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Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation at Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park, your gateway to breathtaking nature and outdoor activities.
Seal Kayak Kaikoura
0.2 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and vibrant marine life of Kaikoura with Seal Kayak Kaikoura's unforgettable kayaking tours.
Crayfest Kaikoura
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Discover a culinary paradise at Crayfest Kaikoura, where the freshest seafood meets vibrant community spirit amidst stunning coastal views.
Seal Swim Kaikoura
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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.
Kaikoura Museum
0.8 km
Uncover the captivating history and culture of Kaikoura at the local history museum, where stories of the sea, land, and people come alive.
Destination Kaikōura
0.8 km
Explore Kaikōura: A Coastal Paradise of Adventure, Marine Life, and Stunning Natural Landscapes.
Kaikoura Beach
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant marine life at Kaikoura Beach, New Zealand's coastal gem perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Kaikoura Kayaks
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kaikoura's coastline while kayaking with dolphins and seals at Kaikoura Kayaks, an eco-friendly adventure.
The White Morph
1.4 km
Experience coastal tranquility at The White Morph in Kaikōura, your gateway to marine adventures and breathtaking views of nature.
Encounter Kaikoura (Dolphin Encounter)
1.5 km
Discover the magic of swimming with dolphins at Encounter Kaikoura, where stunning coastal views meet unforgettable marine adventures.
The Anchor Inn Beachfront Motel Kaikoura
2.2 km
Experience the stunning coastal beauty of Kaikoura at The Anchor Inn Beachfront Motel, perfect for relaxation and adventure seekers alike.
Kaikoura Lookout
2.6 km
Discover the stunning beauty of New Zealand at Kaikoura Lookout, where ocean and mountain meet for breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
Historic Chimney
3.2 km
Discover the Historic Chimney in Kaikōura, a remarkable landmark that showcases the region's rich history and stunning coastal scenery.
The Fairways Luxury Accommodation Kaikoura
3.4 km
Discover the elegance and comfort of The Fairways Luxury Accommodation in Kaikoura, where breathtaking views meet unparalleled hospitality.
Kaikoura Llama Trekking
4.2 km
Experience the beauty of Kaikoura on a unique llama trekking adventure, perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers seeking a memorable outdoor experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wildlife Refuge
0.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Kaikōura's Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and breathtaking coastal views perfect for nature lovers.
Hvalsafari
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Discover the breathtaking marine life of Kaikōura with Hvalsafari - your gateway to unforgettable whale watching in New Zealand's stunning coastal landscapes.
Brücke Tapuiti
0.4 km
Experience the stunning views and serene ambiance at Brücke Tapuiti, a picturesque bridge in Kaikōura, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers.
EcoZip Adventures Kaikōura
0.4 km
Experience the thrill of ziplining in Kaikōura, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity at EcoZip Adventures.
Church of the Sacred Heart
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Discover the serene beauty and rich culture of Kaikōura at the Church of the Sacred Heart, a stunning Catholic church with breathtaking views.
Daves' Diving Kaikoura
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Experience the breathtaking marine life of New Zealand at Daves' Diving Kaikoura, where adventure meets the beauty of the ocean.
Lyell Creek
0.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Lyell Creek in New Zealand's Kaikōura region, a perfect escape into nature's embrace.
Harmon's Motor Museum
0.7 km
Explore Harmon’s Motor Museum in Kaikōura, a captivating destination for car enthusiasts featuring exceptional classic and vintage vehicles.
Kaikoura Town Clock
0.7 km
Discover the Kaikoura Town Clock, a historical landmark surrounded by stunning coastal and mountain views, perfect for memorable photographs.
Maori Tours Kaikoura
0.8 km
Explore Maori Tours Kaikoura for an authentic cultural experience that connects you with New Zealand's indigenous heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Kaikoura Town Lookout
0.8 km
Discover stunning coastal views and the natural beauty of Kaikoura at the scenic lookout, a must-visit spot for every traveler.
Anzac Park
1.0 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 water tower lookout.
2.6 km
Discover stunning views and serene landscapes at the Kaikoura Water Tower Lookout, a must-visit attraction for nature lovers in New Zealand.
Fyffe House
3.2 km
Explore the rich history of Kaikōura at Fyffe House, a captivating heritage museum showcasing the lives of early settlers and their enduring legacy.
South Bay Recreation Reserve
3.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Continental Seafoods
0.2 km
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Night 'n Day Kaikoura
0.2 km
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Kaikoura Indian Restaurant
0.2 km
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Emporium Brewing
0.2 km
Discover the best of craft brewing at Emporium Brewing in Kaikōura - where great beer meets fun activities!
Subway
0.3 km
Discover delicious freshness at Subway Kaikōura - your perfect fast food stop while enjoying New Zealand's stunning coastline.
Asian Taste
0.4 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors at Asian Taste in Kaikōura – where delicious meets affordable in a stunning coastal setting.
Slam Club
0.4 km
Discover Kaikōura's vibrant dining scene at Slam Club—where fresh flavors meet stunning views.
Tipsy Foodies Kaikoura
0.4 km
Discover a delightful blend of flavors at Tipsy Foodies Kaikoura – where pizza meets local charm in a vibrant setting.
Coopers Catch
0.4 km
Savor the freshest seafood at Coopers Catch in Kaikōura – where every bite is a taste of New Zealand's coastal charm.
Thai Kai Takeaway
0.4 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors at Thai Kai Takeaway in Kaikōura - where deliciousness meets local charm!
Cods & Crayfish
0.4 km
Savor fresh seafood at Cods & Crayfish in Kaikōura - where every bite captures the essence of New Zealand's coastal flavors.
Fish & Chips
0.4 km
Savor fresh fish & chips with stunning ocean views in Kaikōura—where local flavors meet coastal beauty.
Black Rabbit Pizza
0.5 km
Discover the best artisan pizzas in Kaikōura at Black Rabbit Pizza – where fresh ingredients meet stunning coastal views.
Strawberry Tree Kaikoura Ltd.
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Experience fresh seafood delights and vibrant live music at Strawberry Tree Kaikoura - a must-visit culinary gem in New Zealand.
Zephyr Restaurant, Kaikoura - Open daily from 5.30pm
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Experience exceptional dining at Zephyr Restaurant in Kaikoura with fresh local cuisine and stunning ocean views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sime's Kitchen
0.1 km
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Kaikoura Community Op Shop
0.2 km
Explore the Kaikoura Community Op Shop for unique second-hand treasures and support local charities while enjoying a sustainable shopping experience.
Kaikoura Bakery
0.3 km
Experience the flavors of Kaikoura at the delightful Kaikoura Bakery, where fresh pastries and local delicacies await every visitor.
Souvenirs
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant gift shop in Kaikōura offering unique local crafts and mementos that capture the spirit of New Zealand.
Kaikoura Surf
0.3 km
Discover the ultimate surfing experience at Kaikoura Surf, your go-to shop for gear, advice, and local surf knowledge in Kaikōura.
Pacific Jewels
0.4 km
Explore Pacific Jewels in Kaikōura for unique handcrafted jewelry that embodies the beauty of New Zealand's natural landscape.
Poppy's Parlour
0.4 km
Experience the joy of artisanal ice cream at Poppy's Parlour in Kaikōura, where every scoop is a taste of local flavor and creativity.
The DAIRY - Kaikoura
0.4 km
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Flo & Co Kaikoura
0.5 km
Experience the essence of Kaikoura at Flo & Co, where exceptional coffee meets local flavors in a charming coastal setting.
Coastal Sports
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Explore Kaikōura's stunning coastlines with top-notch gear from Coastal Sports, your local hub for outdoor adventures.
Global Culture Kaikoura
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Explore Global Culture Kaikoura for unique souvenirs and clothing that capture the essence of local artistry and the beauty of New Zealand.
Hand Made Kaikoura
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Explore Hand Made Kaikoura for unique handmade clothing and gifts that capture the essence of New Zealand's local artistry.
Ula
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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
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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
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lobster Inn Tavern
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The Pier Hotel
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Donegal House
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Discover the charm of Donegal House in Kaikoura Flat, a cozy hotel experience surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
JD Sprig Bar
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Bottle-O Redwood & The Redwood Tavern
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Cork & Keg Pub and Motel
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Woodbourne Tavern & Motel
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Discover the charm of Woodbourne Tavern & Motel in Renwick, where cozy accommodations meet the region's finest local wines and delightful cuisine.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kaikoura Bowling Club
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Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
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Kaikoura Trotting Club
2.1 km
Discover the thrill of horse racing at Kaikoura Trotting Club, where excitement meets stunning coastal views in New Zealand.
Kaikoura Boating & Fishing Club (Inc)
3.2 km
Experience the breathtaking marine adventures at Kaikoura Boating & Fishing Club, where the ocean meets vibrant local culture.
Kaikoura Golf Club
3.8 km
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Kaikoura Golf Club, where breathtaking landscapes and exceptional golfing experience await you.
Air Kaikoura Aero Club
7.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kaikoura from the skies with Air Kaikoura Aero Club, your premier whale watching tour agency.
Marlborough Golf Club
96.8 km
Discover Marlborough Golf Club: A Scenic Course Offering Unmatched Beauty and a Warm Community Spirit in New Zealand.
