Things to See & Do on the West Coast
Updated: Aug 31
Explore the Best of the West Coast From Breakers
One of the things our guests often tell us after arriving at Breakers is that they had no idea just how much there was to see and do on the West Coast.
Many travellers initially plan for a quick overnight stop before continuing south, only to discover they could easily spend several more days exploring the coastline, rainforest walks, hidden beaches, wildlife, local history, cafés, and scenic drives that make this part of New Zealand so special.
At Breakers Boutique Accommodation, we genuinely encourage guests to slow down, stay a little longer, and experience the region properly. Once you have booked your stay with us, Jan and Stephen are always happy to help you plan your time on the Coast, share local knowledge, and recommend some of the hidden gems that many visitors often drive straight past.
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
The famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes are one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions and are an easy scenic drive north from Breakers.
Towering limestone formations, rugged coastal cliffs, crashing Tasman Sea swells, and native rainforest combine to create an unforgettable West Coast experience.
While many visitors stop briefly for the Pancake Rocks, guests staying longer often discover:
• Truman Track
• Pororari River Walk
• Hidden beaches
• Local caves
• Sunset viewing spots
These are often the places people remember most.
Paparoa National Park
The wild beauty of Paparoa National Park showcases everything that makes the Coast unique.
Dense rainforest, dramatic limestone landscapes, rivers, and rugged coastline make this area perfect for guests wanting to experience nature at a slower pace.
Whether you are looking for a short scenic walk or a full day exploring, Jan and Stephen are always happy to point guests toward walks and local spots suited to their interests and fitness levels.
Hokitika Gorge & Hokitika
The vivid turquoise waters of Hokitika Gorge continue to amaze visitors from all over the world.
Many guests are surprised at how much there is to experience around Hokitika itself, including:
• Pounamu carving studios
• Driftwood beaches
• Artisan galleries
• Local cafés
• Glow Worm Dell
• Scenic sunset spots
What often starts as a quick stop can easily turn into a full day of exploring.
The West Coast Wilderness Trail
For guests wanting to experience the region by bike, the West Coast Wilderness Trail offers one of New Zealand’s great cycling journeys.
The trail winds through native rainforest, wetlands, rivers, lakes, and historic gold mining settlements, offering an incredible way to experience the landscape at a slower pace.
Many guests who originally planned a single night at Breakers later wish they had allowed extra time to properly explore the trail and surrounding region.
Local Wildlife & Hidden Coastal Gems
One of the special things about staying at Breakers is the location itself.
Situated overlooking Nine Mile Beach, guests are perfectly positioned to experience the changing moods of the Tasman Sea, spectacular sunsets, native birdlife, and even the occasional little blue penguin returning ashore after dark.
Some of the Coast’s best experiences are not always found in guidebooks.
They are:
• quiet beaches
• hidden lookouts
• local walking tracks
• photography locations
• small cafés
• scenic backroads
• places you discover unexpectedly along the way
These are the kinds of places Jan and Stephen love sharing with guests once they arrive.
Shantytown Heritage Park
For visitors interested in local history, Shantytown Heritage Park offers an authentic glimpse into the Coast’s gold mining heritage.
Steam train rides, heritage buildings, gold panning, and fascinating stories make this a fantastic experience for both families and couples exploring the region.
Local Dining & West Coast Hospitality
Guests staying a little longer also have more opportunity to enjoy some of our favourite local dining spots, including:
• Monteith's Brewery
• Sevenpenny
• Speights Ale House Greymouth
From craft beer and hearty West Coast meals to relaxed cafés and beachfront dining, there is plenty to enjoy nearby.
We are always happy to help with recommendations and bookings during your stay.
Stay a Little Longer
One of the most common things we hear from guests at Breakers is:
"We wish we had booked another night."
The West Coast has a way of slowing people down. What begins as a short stop often turns into a place guests wish they had allowed more time to experience properly.
An extra day gives you time to:
• explore without rushing
• discover hidden local gems
• enjoy flexible travel around West Coast weather
• experience both relaxation and adventure
• truly take in the beauty of the region
At Breakers, we genuinely love helping guests experience the very best of the Coast. Once you have booked your stay, Jan and Stephen are always happy to help plan your time here, recommend local attractions, and share the authentic West Coast experiences that make this place so special.
