Guided Sunset Evening Classic
A Kaikōura favourite for over 28 years, introducing visitors from around the world to the spectacular coastline and marine wildlife of the Kaikōura Peninsula. Join us for an unforgettable kayaking experience!
Tour Overview
Paddling along the stunning Kaikōura Peninsula is a memorable way to experience the region’s incredible scenery and marine wildlife. With guaranteed viewing of New Zealand fur seals in their natural environment, keep an eye out for seals feeding along the coastline as they hunt for their evening meal of octopus.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy spectacular views of the Kaikōura Mountains as the changing light transforms the landscape. Keep an eye out for dusky dolphins, abundant marine birdlife and other wildlife that call the Kaikōura coastline home.
Paddle in traditional sea kayaks, designed specifically for the coastal waters of Kaikōura. Our enclosed kayaks are stable, comfortable and easy to steer, helping you stay warm and dry while enjoying a genuine New Zealand sea kayaking experience.
Our qualified and experienced sea kayaking guides will share their knowledge of the Kaikōura marine environment, local Māori history and early whaling history as you explore the peninsula from the water.
Don’t forget your camera to capture the spectacular evening light, mountain views and memorable wildlife encounters along the way.
As with all adventure activities, there is an element of risk involved. Please view the risks associated with this activity here.
Google review - March 2026
Unforgettable! We had a brilliant time out with the very capable & knowledgeable Loz & Holt! We learnt so much about the seals, dolphins, birds! We were spoilt with dusky dolphins frolicking around us after 30 mins of fierce paddling Then we watched seals lounging and coughing up on the rocks. We were very lucky to even see a couple of royal spoonbills!! As we were heading back in to boat ramp, I also spotted a giant sting ray! Mother Nature was very kind and offered so much wildlife. Highly recommended tour! Thoroughly enjoyed the workout and the sightings. Oh and the sunset was superb too, added bonus!
Tour at a Glance
Open Season:
September - May
Prior Experience:
None Required
Duration:
3 hours (1.5 - 2 hrs paddling time)
Age:
Adults 13yrs +
Highlights
Top Activity in Kaikōura- TripAdvisor Traveller Rating 2025
- Surreal sunsets over the Kaikōura coastline
- Watch the mountains transform as the sun goes down
- Enjoy the cooler part of the day with less UV exposure
- Look out for the New Zealand fur seals feeding and hunting for octopus
- The perfect way to end your day in Kaikōura
- Safety briefing and paddle instruction included
Spring - Summer 2026 / 27
September 27th - April 3rd 2027
4:30pm
Autumn 2026
April 4th - 30th 2026
3:30pm
What our customers have to say
Truly amazing experience! We had a lot of luck with the weather and animal encounters, we saw a small whale and loads of seals. Staff were super friendly and it was much fun. Would definitely recommend
Serafin K, Europe
I’d like to say thanks for a great day today. The guides were excellent setting up the day and introducing everyone. They’re very organized. The equipment was of a great standard and the day was brilliant. The weather was good and we saw well over 100 dolphins, and even seals and birds local to the area. All in all we had a great...
Emma H, Canada
Marine mammal megamix Spent a truly incredible morning around the Kaikōura Peninsula with Matt and Emma, two fantastic local guides. The whole operation was very professional, with high quality kayaks, equipment and a detailed safety briefing. Spent a good amount of time observing the seals, tried our hand at some kayak surfing in the big...
Tom, Neverlands
We loved our trip with Kaikoura kayaks. We took our whole family and the kids aged 9,12 and 14 really enjoyed paddling on the water and getting up close to the seals on the rocks. The guides were really informative and friendly. The safety briefing meant us parents felt comfortable with our kids out on the water. We would highly recommend!
Erin, Australia
We had a great time kayaking with this outfit. The guides were professional and trained us well before we got into the water. We saw loads of fur seals as well as albatross. It was a wonderful experience that I highly recommend.
Marcella R, USA
We had an amazing time with our guide Loz, gave us some really cold facts about all the wildlife around! He had a wealth of knowledge and even managed to bring us to some Dusky dolphins!!
Emma R, Ireland
"To Matt and the Kaikōura Kayaks team, Thank you very much for a fantastic day of kayaking. Both our trips were very well organised by your friendly team. We found your lessons enjoyable, helping us all to be confident, expert paddlers! We were so lucky to have a beautiful sunny day, and we enjoyed fantastic scenery and wildlife out...
Kowhai Class, Hurunui College NZ
The experience of a lifetime! Having intuitive and professional guides who allowed us the opportunity to experience an outstanding and very memorable day. They knew just where the incredible action was happening. We saw an amazing array of dolphins playing right near us and also saw blue penguins and seals. We travelled for two weeks around...
Paula Kirby, Wellinton NZ
We were soooo lucky - perfect sunshine, calm water and 300 dolphins! But it wasn't just luck: Kaikoura Kayaks were also superbly organised, friendly, safe, encouraging and a LOT of fun. Thank you!
Lucy M, UK