The Pier Hotel

Arguably the best views in town, The Pier Hotel sits right on the waterfront at the edge of the Kaikōura Peninsula.

This is a classic Kiwi pub and restaurant housed within an iconic nineteenth century hotel once frequented by local whalers and fishermen. Naturally nautically themed, there are three seating areas inside the restaurant and plenty of outdoor seating in the beer garden (plus a kids play area) and along the waters edge.

The food here is heavily seafood based, but expect to find the usual suspects of pub grub favourites on the menu as well. Crayfish is the most popular dish and the seafood platter takes second place as the go-to sharing option.

A local’s favourite, The Pier Hotel is often full to the brim, so it pays to book ahead to avoid disappointment – especially the sought after window seats are rarely free for walk-ins. Fridays sees the Kaikōura local social club gather on the pub side of The Pier Hotel, making it an extra-busy evening for the crew and perfect for anyone who wants to experience the hubbub of the traditional Kiwiana pub.

Accommodation upstairs consists of nine rooms with the aforementioned Kaikōura stunning views. The Pier Hotel also runs a courtesy van on request to town centre and back.