The beautiful harbor town of Picton is your starting point for exploring the Marlborough Sounds. It is also a great place to buy souvenirs. But don’t think that’s all: it also offers leisure options that will make your trip to New Zealand even more unforgettable. Check out the 5 best things to do in Picton, in New Zealand.
Majestic sailboats floating on azure waters. A picturesque landscape of lush mountains. Sky with scattered clouds. That’s Picton, New Zealand, a charming seaside town on the edge of Queen Charlotte Sound.
Founded in the early 19th century by whalers, today Picton is a bustling harbor, surrounded by award-winning restaurants, magnificent art galleries and watersports activities, and scenic yet challenging nature trails.
The picturesque seaside town of Picton is the South Island’s base for the ferry service connecting the main islands to New Zealand. It is also the gateway to the marine, forest, and island attractions of the Marlborough Sounds – a set of ancient submerged river valleys that are fed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. The wooded hills rise sharply from the sea around a coastal complex of sheltered coves and sandy bays.
Built around a protected harbor, the town has a charming waterfront lined with cafes, restaurants, and various types of galleries. There is also a floating maritime museum and an aquarium. Local operators offer cruises, fishing, dolphin watching, or canoeing in the sea.
There are thousands of leisure options in this amazing port city. That’s why we’ve selected the 5 best things to do in Picton, in New Zealand. The best tips, with local and immersive tours.
Check out the 5 best things to do in Picton, in New Zealand
#1 The beaches of Abel Tasman
Abel Tasman, a national park located on the south island, is one of the main tourist destinations in New Zealand and offers dozens of possibilities for those who like to enjoy beautiful landscapes on paradisiacal beaches.
This place is for those who enjoy exploring activities in nature, practicing extreme sports, making friends, and relaxing on the beaches.
It is also a paradise for lovers of the sea, with its white-sand beaches and crystal clear water that stretch along the coast north of Marahau and Kaiteriteri. It is a place where you can enjoy the sunny days by hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, sailing, catamaran, parachuting, or even flying hang gliders and gliders.
#2 Queen Charlotte Track
In addition to being a popular summer beach destination, Picton is also an excellent option for those who enjoy trekking and hiking.
The trail known as the Queen Charlotte Track is one of the most popular in New Zealand, alongside the trails that exist in Milford Sound.
The ideal is to buy a travel package to know the trail. Packages for the Queen Charlotte Track last from 1 to 5 days and may include food, luggage transfers, accommodation, and other benefits. It is an alternative for those who want to explore the trails and not go through inconveniences and discomfort. Just walk and enjoy.
Certainly, the Queen Charlotte Track is a major local attraction. And you can conquer it on foot or by mountain bike.
#3 3-hour cruise with Cougar Line
If you have a tight time in Pitcon, you need to witness 80km of beautiful coastline and enjoy hidden coves and bays unseen from the inter-island ferries, with commentary from our experienced captains.
Enjoy the captains’ commentary on the natural environment and local history as you cruise a working salmon farm ship.
#4 Motuara Island Sanctuary and Dolphin Watching Tour
Cruise from Picton through the clear, calm waters of the Marlborough Sounds on a scenic drive to the Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary.
The boats are comfortable and the team is specialized to offer you an adventure. You will see and connect with dolphins of various species.
#5 An afternoon at La Cafe
Le Cafe is a restaurant and bar offering live music in Picton.
There, you will enjoy a contemporary continental meal with locally sourced ingredients and sample local wines and the finest beers. In addition, it has an impeccable view of Pitcon.
Bonus tips
In Picton, you also can do:
- The walk to Waikawa, on a trail that starts near “The Echo Café and Restaurant”, takes about 1 hour.
- Head to Picton Hills and enjoy the fantastic scenery.
- Fishing in Picton harbor is an excellent option.
- Dive in and see the wreckage of the Lermontov, a Russian ship that sank in 1986.
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What did you think of our tips on what to do in Picton? We are sure it will be an unforgettable experience. Tell us in the comments