Review of Punakaiki Beachfront Motels||||Nestled along the rugged West Coast of New Zealand, Punakaiki Beachfront Motels offer a serene and unforgettable stay right by the ocean. The location is nothing short of breathtaking, with panoramic views of the Tasman Sea and the famous Pancake Rocks just a short walk away.||||Accommodation:||||The units are spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed to maximize the natural beauty of the surroundings. Waking up to the sound of crashing waves and stepping out onto a private deck to enjoy the sea breeze is a highlight. The interiors, while not overly luxurious, are cozy and well-equipped, featuring comfortable beds, modern kitchenettes, and clean bathrooms.||||Location:||||The property’s location is its crown jewel. It’s an ideal base for exploring the Paparoa National Park, with its lush rainforests and limestone formations. The nearby Truman Track, a short walk from the motels, is a must-see for its stunning coastal views and unique rock formations.||||Highlights:|| • The beachfront access is a two minute . Watching the sunset over the Tasman Sea from the comfort of your room or a nearby bench is an experience you’ll cherish.|| • Proximity to key attractions like the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes means you’re never far from adventure.|| • It’s a peaceful retreat, perfect for those looking to unwind amidst nature.||||Considerations:|| • The Wi-Fi can be a bit patchy, but that’s part of the charm of escaping into this remote coastal paradise.|| • Some units are slightly dated, but the charm and cleanliness more than make up for it. And have no aircon so of it’s a hot day then you’ll need to open the windows ||||Overall:||||Punakiki Beachfront Motels is a perfect choice for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking to disconnect and recharge, this place has something special to offer. I’d recommend staying at least two nights to fully soak in the beauty and tranquility of the...
Read moreI stayed here one night before and one night after the Paparoa Guided Walk.||I booked a studio unit both times. The cost was NZD200 per night. Expensive. As I had stayed one night in Hokitika for NZD150||It was not disclosed on the website and I happened to find out just by chance that check-in for the Motels was 500m return down the road at the Punakaiki Tavern.||The lady at the Tavern at my first one night stay at check-in took payment and simply pointed me down the road by way of direction to my unit.||It was a different experience the second time I stayed, a lovely gentleman at check-in and a very pleasant older lady at the motel site.||They do not store luggage, perhaps with good reason.||West Coast Hospitality!||Neither units were beachfront, both were dated and tired from wear and tear.||The facilities were adequate as I only needed a bed for the night. ||Location was down the hill from the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks within walking distance. ||Get onto the coastal sea wall and it's a lovely stroll with great views of the Rocks behind and the surf (riders) out to sea. ||Did not catch any stunning sunsets due to weather conditions, still west coast scenery is...
Read moreThis place was way better than advertised! There are not many lodging options in Punakaiki, but I can't believe this can be topped. It does not feel at all like a "motel". Even bungalow seems too cheap. Yes, we drove right up to our room, and yes it was a one-story building with several rooms, those rooms are huge, spacious and downright luxurious in terms of comfort, quality bedding, bath supplies, etc. ||It's also walking distance to the only pub/restaurant in town and a couple nice hiking attractions (Punakaiki Cavern was interesting but not much, but the Pororiro River Track was very worthwhile). But the highlight was the absolutely magical sunset from the the seawall overlooking the Tasman Sea. Just stunning... and a short walk across the parking lot from your room. ||I can't compare Punakaiki to Hokitika or Greymouth, but if you want to see the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes (also stunning, very worthwhile), then this is the place to overnight. I could spend a week here and just stare at the ocean and...
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