If you’re staying with us at Hampden Beach or planning a trip to our stunning slice of paradise, you’re in one of the South Island’s most unique and photogenic coastal destinations.
Famous for the iconic Moeraki Boulders, historic fishing village charm, dramatic cliffs, wildlife encounters, and fresh seafood, this small seaside town packs far more into a visit than most people expect. Whether you’re camping, fishing, photographing landscapes, or simply slowing down, here are the best things to do near Hampden and Moeraki.
1. Visit the Famous Moeraki Boulders
No trip is complete without seeing the Moeraki Boulders, one of New Zealand’s most fascinating natural wonders.
These huge spherical boulders are scattered along Koekohe Beach, just south of Moeraki Village. Formed millions of years ago, they appear almost perfectly round and seem otherworldly against the sandy shoreline.
Best Time to Visit
- Within 3.5 hours on either side of low tide.
- Sunrise for soft light and fewer crowds
You can enjoy a scenic 25-minute walk south along the shoreline from our campground, offering breathtaking coastal views along the way. For easier access, especially for families with young children or those with limited mobility, the boulders are just a quick 1.5 km drive south on the main road, accessible at any time. Whether you walk or drive, visiting the Moeraki Boulders is an unmissable attraction for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone exploring New Zealand’s Otago coast.
2. Explore the Moeraki Village & Harbour
Moeraki is a working fishing village with strong ties to both Māori and European history. The small harbour area offers peaceful coastal views and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Things to Do in the Village
- Millennium Walkway
- Jump on a fishing charter and eat what you catch
- Enjoy fresh seafood at the local famous Moeraki Tavern or The Fishwife.
It’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy authentic coastal life in Otago.
3. Wildlife & Nature Spotting Around Moeraki
Moeraki is one of the best places in Otago to see native coastal wildlife in its natural habitat and the real drawcard of the area is the 10-minute walk down to the tiny island known for its nature spotting. The rugged coastline, rocky platforms, sandy beaches, and nearby farmland create diverse ecosystems supporting a range of species.
What You Might See:
- Yellow-eyed penguins / hoiho (one of the world’s rarest penguins)
- New Zealand fur seals
- Coastal seabirds
- Sea lions resting on beaches
- Shags and terns
- Oyster catchers along the shoreline
Early morning and late afternoon are typically the best times for wildlife activity. Wildlife is best observed quietly and from a respectful distance.
4. Photography & Scenic Views
Moeraki is a dream location for photographers. Between the spherical boulders, cliff-top lighthouse, rugged coastline, and changing light over the Pacific, there’s no shortage of striking compositions.
Top Photography Spots
- Moeraki Boulders at sunrise
- Katiki Point Lighthouse overlooking the ocean
- Coastal cliffs and farmland landscapes
- Stormy seas and dramatic wave action
- Wildlife along rocky shores
Golden hour light transforms the landscape, especially during calm winter mornings or colourful summer evenings.
5. Visit the small town of Hampden
Hampden offers our perfect base for camping by the beach and proximity to the many attractions the surrounding areas have to offer. Grab those fish ‘n’ chips and a seriously giant ice-cream from the Hampden Store and enjoy them down at the beach where you’ll find a playground for the kids and be amongst where hector’s dolphins are often spotted in the surf.
What you’ll come across in Hampden
- Don’t miss the popular antiques store on the main road – a great stop for collectors and vintage aficionados.
- Check out the Heritage Trail which takes you on a walking tour of various historic sites starting from the old Hampden Hotel and includes local churches, the cemetery, war memorial and more.
- If you go for a walk on Hampden Beach, you may be able to see the Moeraki Boulders in the distance. In fact, you can walk all the way there from our place if the tide is low.
6. See the Famous Moeraki Lighthouse
Just a short drive from the village and a short walk from the public carpark, Katiki Point Lighthouse was lit on 22 April 1878, fully automated by 1975 and is now monitored by a computer and Maritime New Zealand staff in Wellington.
This historic lighthouse sits on dramatic cliffs and
- Is one of the best wildlife viewing spots in the region.
- Provides incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and Otago coastline, especially on clear days.
- Is right by the Katiki Point Historic Reserve, a special place of cultural and historical significance to Moerakitaka and Ngai Tahu. Learn about the history of the area and read the interpretation panels.
Most say the lighthouse is the drawcard of the area and is one not to be missed.
7. Walk the Coastal Tracks & Clifftops
Moeraki offers several scenic walking opportunities with breathtaking coastal views.
Popular Walks
- Katiki Point Track; A 20 min return, easy walk to the lighthouse with wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki Walk; A 10-minute easy walk to the Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki with dog access (on leash)
- Trotters Cave Walk; An easy 20 min walking track with native forest and caves. This track follows a tributary of the Trotters Creek through native broadleaf forest and arrives at a set of river-sculpted caves. At night, glowworms can be seen at certain points along this track
More experienced walkers can also check out Kahikatea Route, Trotters Gorge Track and Waianakarua Circuit Route.
8. Day Trips to Oamaru
We are perfectly positioned to explore the greater area.
Oamaru is 30-minutes north from us and boasts the country’s oldest public gardens, renowned Victorian architecture and two penguin colonies.
What to do in Oamaru:
- Explore the Ōamaru Heritage Precinct; Recognised as one of New Zealand’s most significant heritage experiences, the Ōamaru Heritage Precinct is home to the country’s best-preserved Victorian commercial streetscape. Wander past grand limestone buildings made from locally quarried stone, reflecting Ōamaru’s boom era as a bustling port town.
- Visit the Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony; See the world’s smallest penguin species, the little blue penguin (kororā), in their natural coastal habitat. This carefully managed experience supports conservation, research, and protection of the colony. Evening visits are recommended, when the penguins return from a day of fishing at sea and waddle ashore at dusk to nest.
- Discover Steampunk HQ; Step into an imaginative altered universe at Steampunk HQ, a one-of-a-kind museum of art, sound, and light. Housed in an atmospheric 1880s grain elevator, this quirky attraction blends Victorian industrial style with futuristic fantasy for a truly unique experience.
9. Day Trip to Dunedin
Dunedin is based 1 hour south from the Moeraki Boudlers Holiday Park @Hampden Beach, home to the steepest street in the world (Baldwin Street), known for the great coffee and food scene as well as punching above it’s weight in theatre, galleries, street art, and festivals.
Things to put on a day trip to Dunedin:
- Visit Port Chalmers; Historic Port Chalmers is a charming harbour village with a lively creative spirit. The town blends heritage attractions with cosy cafés and independent galleries, reflecting its strong arts community. Home to potters, sculptors, painters, musicians, and jewellers, it’s rich in colour and culture. Just a short drive from Dunedin, Port Chalmers is a firm local favourite.
- Visit Larnach Castle; No visit to Dunedin is complete without seeing Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle and one of the city’s most treasured landmarks. Built in 1871 by merchant and politician William Larnach, the castle has been meticulously restored to its original Victorian grandeur. Visitors can explore its beautifully preserved rooms and landscaped gardens, which are open to the public.
- Dunedin Street Art Trail; Discover Dunedin’s creative side on the Street Art Trail, featuring an ever-growing collection of vibrant and imaginative works by local and international artists. The artworks are scattered throughout the central city. The self-guided walk takes around 90 minutes, with trail maps available from the Dunedin i-SITE Visitor
10. Relax & Unplug by the Sea
Part of our charm is our simplicity. This isn’t a high energy tourist hotspot, it’s a place to breathe in sea air, listen to waves, and enjoy a slower pace.
Perfect for:
- Reading by the water
- Days (and nights) by the beach
- Watching sunrises and sunsets
- Seafood dinners overlooking the harbour
We offer a genuine kiwi coastal escape and we would love to have you stay with us. Book your stay at Moeraki Boulders Holiday Park @Hampden Beach here