Popular places to visit
Peninsula Walkway
Go wildlife spotting as you hike on a coastal route across cliff tops and down to the shoreline. See whales, seals, sea lions and much more.
Mount Fyffe
Explore the great outdoors at Mount Fyffe and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Kaikōura. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.
Point Kean Seal Colony
Find out about the history of Kaikōura with a stop at Point Kean Seal Colony. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's mountain views.
Fyffe House
You can learn about the history of Kaikōura with a trip to Fyffe House. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's mountain views.
Fyffe View Ranch Adventure Park
Enjoy an outing to Fyffe View Ranch Adventure Park during your stay in Kaikōura. Wander the seaside or discover the area's mountain views.
Kaikoura District Museum
You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Kaikoura District Museum during your trip to Kaikōura. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's mountain views.
Things to do
Kaikōura Whale Watching Scenic Flight (40 Minutes)
Kaikōura: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip
Kaikoura Helicopters Extended Whale Watch flight
Kaikoura: Seal-Watching Pedal Kayak Tour
Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat
Top hotels in South Bay
Bay Cottages
Clean, tidy and comfortable.
Reviewed on 27 Sept, 2025
Kaikoura Quality Suites
Our suite was perfect for a pāpā and his two sons. Had everything we needed to break up a long drive for a night. This motel isn't right in Kaikōura township so if you want to be downtown, there's a decent walk or a quick drive to navigate. This said, the staff were lovely and the parking ample, ...
Reviewed on 27 Oct, 2025
Sudima Kaikoura
This hotel was the perfect location for the dolphin encounter! It’s also across the street from the beach and easy access to other food options and local shops
Reviewed on 22 Oct, 2025
Alpine-pacific Holiday Park
Lovely little cabin
Reviewed on 19 Oct, 2025
Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments
Had a very comfortable 2 night stay. Good location opposite waterfront. Our unit had no view however we were aware of that when we booked. Bathroom was compact but shower was good. Staff were lovely and we’d stay here again
Reviewed on 26 Oct, 2025
Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
Friendly owners
Reviewed on 25 Oct, 2025
Other neighbourhoods around South Bay
Kaikoura Peninsula
If you're spending some time in Kaikoura Peninsula, Peninsula Walkway and Point Kean Seal Colony are top sights worth seeing.
Kaikoura Flat
While visiting Kaikoura Flat, you might make a stop by sights like Mount Fyffe and Kaikoura Beach.
