Top 5 Most Popular Guest Activities at Birds Ferry Lodge
When guests arrive at Birds Ferry Lodge, they often come seeking a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and rest, and that’s exactly what they find. Nestled on the stunning West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, our lodge is the perfect base for exploring this wild and wonderful region. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a week, here are the five most-loved activities our guests rave about.
1. Tauranga Bay Cliff Top Walk, Seals, Sea Views & Serenity
Just a short drive from the lodge, this coastal walk is a must-do. The Tauranga Bay Cliff Top Walk offers breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea and a thriving seal colony at Cape Foulwind. The path is well maintained and easy to follow, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Guests often tell us how invigorating it is to watch the waves crash below while seabirds soar overhead. Don’t forget your camera.
2. Kawatiri Coastal Trail, Walk Through Untamed Beauty
The Kawatiri Coastal Trail is one of the West Coast’s best kept secrets. Guests love heading out on foot or hiring e-bikes or to explore this easy, scenic trail. It winds through lush native bush, over historic bridges, and past dramatic coastal views. This trail offers a peaceful way to connect with nature at your own pace.
3. Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes, A Geological Wonder
You can’t visit the West Coast without seeing the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. This iconic spot, just an hour north of us, features limestone rock formations that look like stacks of pancakes, shaped by millions of years of wind and sea. When the tide is right, the blowholes put on a dramatic display as seawater blasts into the air. Many guests combine this with a visit to the nearby Paparoa National Park for a day of exploring.
4. Truman Track, A Short Walk to a Hidden Beach
The Truman Track is a gem, tucked just north of Punakaiki. It’s a short, magical walk, through native forest that opens out to a wild beach framed by cliffs and caves. Time your visit for low tide to explore the rock pools and watch the sun dip over the ocean. Our guests love how easy and rewarding this walk is. It’s a real highlight for nature lovers and photographers alike.
5. Relaxing at Birds Ferry Lodge, Gardens, Great Food & Alison’s Cooking
Of course, many guests say their favourite activity is simply staying put at Birds Ferry Lodge. After a day of adventures, there's nothing better than returning to your private suite, soaking in the peace and quiet, and enjoying a delicious, home cooked meal. Alison’s cooking is legendary and crafted with love from local ingredients, much of it straight from our own organic gardens. Whether it's a hearty breakfast, a gourmet dinner, or a picnic lunch to take on the trail, guests appreciate the thought and flavour in every bite.
Ready to experience the best of the West Coast? Whether you're walking with seals, biking beside the sea, or unwinding with a glass of wine on the deck, Birds Ferry Lodge is your home for relaxation, nature, and unforgettable food.
