Start from the Point Kean car park. Don’t be fooled by the steep incline at the beginning. After the first 5 minutes, it is a leisurely walk with unbeatable views. You have the coastline and the mountains, but also interesting rock formations with sunbathing seals. Native birds can also be spotted along this walk and, if you’re in the right season, dolphins!

While there is a clear track, you’ll often see people jumping over the stones near the Point Kean Seal Colony end of the track. Just be sure to stay at least 10 metres from any seals. Don’t get between the seals and the water as they will feel cornered and might attack you. 

After the 2016 earthquake where the seabed lifted, the seals have moved further away from the car park and the road, but they can still easily be spotted along the walk. The best time to see the seals is in the morning.

If you choose to go down onto the rocks and the beach, keep in mind the time for high tide so as not to get stranded.

Whale watching scenic flight from Kaikoura with sperm whale

Fly over the whales on this stunning scenic flight which includes Kaikoura and it’s coastline. 

  • Location: Kaikoura, South Island, New Zealand
  • Time needed: 1 hour walk
  • Distance: 3-4 km
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Bikes allowed: Unknown
  • Route: One way
  • Elevation: 5 minute incline at the start of the walk, then flat
  • Wet Feet: No
  • Toilets: There are toilets at the car park.
  • Dogs: Unknown
  • Mobile Coverage: Unknown
  • Last Updated: September, 2020

More of my walks in Kaikoura