Waikanae

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Waikanae's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Waikanae Beach
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk along Waikanae Beach. Breathe in the ocean air while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a local café and then visit the nearby Waikanae Estuary. Take some time to observe the diverse bird life in the area.

evening
:

End the day with a stunning sunset at the beach. Enjoy a picnic dinner with friends or family on the soft sand.

day 2
Visit Paraparaumu Beach
morning
:

Head to the nearby Paraparaumu Beach for a morning swim or stroll. The soft sands and waves make it a perfect place to start your day.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a beachside restaurant, followed by a trip to the local shops. Spend your afternoon browsing for unique Kiwi souvenirs.

evening
:

Watch the sunset over the ocean while dining at a seaside restaurant. Savor local seafood and relax as the day winds down.

day 3
Nature Walks in Nga Manu Nature Reserve
morning
:

Begin after breakfast with a visit to the Nga Manu Nature Reserve. Wander through lush forests and discover native New Zealand flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch in one of the reserve’s picnic areas. Continue your exploration with guided tours or specific birdwatching spots.

evening
:

Return to Waikanae and have dinner at a local pizzeria. Reflect on the day's natural wonders amidst a cozy atmosphere.

day 4
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Get ready for some outdoor activities with a visit to the local adventure center. Opt for kayaking or paddleboarding on the tranquil river.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch and enjoy it by the riverbank. Afterward, try your hand at hiking on surrounding trails for breathtaking views.

evening
:

Wrap up your adventure with a BBQ dinner at your accommodation. Share stories and laughter around the grill with friends.

day 5
Local Arts and Crafts
morning
:

Start the day by visiting local art galleries and craft shops. Immerse yourself in the creativity of Waikanae's artists with original works.

afternoon
:

Have lunch in the arts district and take a workshop to create your own masterpiece. It's a fun and engaging way to connect with local culture.

evening
:

Attend an art exhibition or live performance in town. Experience the vibrant local arts scene while enjoying a glass of wine.

day 6
Cycle Through Scenic Trails
morning
:

Rent a bike and start your day biking along the Kapiti Coast. The picturesque scenery will keep you motivated as you ride.

afternoon
:

Stop for a café lunch along the way, then continue to explore more trails. Find hidden spots to take in the stunning coastal views.

evening
:

Finish cycling and reward yourself with dinner at a local pub. Relax with a cold drink and share your best moments of the day.

day 7
Relaxation Day
morning
:

Take a leisurely approach to your morning with breakfast in bed. Follow it up with a visit to the beach for sunbathing or reading.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a lunch at a beachfront café, listening to the sounds of the surf. Spend your afternoon indulging in a spa treatment for ultimate relaxation.

evening
:

Dine at a charming restaurant featuring local delicacies. Savor a peaceful evening reflecting on your relaxing day.

day 8
Hiking the Tararua Ranges
morning
:

Head out early for a hike in the nearby Tararua Ranges. The fresh air and gorgeous views make it a rewarding start to your day.

afternoon
:

Stop for a packed lunch on the trail while enjoying panoramic vistas. Continue hiking while exploring various pathways and flora.

evening
:

Return to Waikanae and relax with a hearty dinner at a local restaurant. Share stories from the trail with fellow hikers.

day 9
Wine Tasting Day
morning
:

Begin your day with a scenic drive to nearby wine regions. Taste the local wines and learn about the winemaking process during a guided tour.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, with stunning views of the vineyards. Spend the afternoon tasting various wines and local delicacies.

evening
:

Head back to Waikanae and unwind with a casual dinner at a local bistro. Relish the flavors of the day while reminiscing about the wine experiences.

day 10
Scenic Photography Tour
morning
:

Grab your camera and venture out to capture the beauty of Waikanae at sunrise. Focus on natural landscapes, wildlife, and coastal views.

afternoon
:

Stop for a quick lunch, then explore more photography hotspots. Look for unique angles and lighting to enhance your photography skills.

evening
:

Share your favorite photos with friends over dinner. Discuss each shot and what inspired it as you cap off a creative day.

Discover Waikanae

Read more in our Waikanae 2024 Travel Guide.

Waikanae Travel Guide