The Great Coast Road New Zealand: Greymouth to Westport Drive
Lonely Planet named the Great Coast Road on the West Coast of New Zealand one of the world’s most beautiful drives. This 85-kilometre route traces the West Coast of the South Island, showcasing breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, the Southern Alps, and the rainforest. Along the way, travellers can explore iconic attractions such as Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Keep reading to discover why the Great Coast Road New Zealand is one of the best coastal drives in the world and things to do on the South Island West Coast road trip on the Greymouth to Westport Drive.
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Discovering the West Coast
The West Coast of New Zealand is famed for its untamed wilderness, breathtaking ocean views, dramatic landscapes, and a sense of isolation, making it a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The area is situated between the Tasman Sea towards the west and the magnificent Southern Alps in the east, which results in a stunning combination of coast and mountains.
A New Zealand West Coast Road Trip – The Drive from Greymouth to Westport
This NZ West Coast road trip allows you to admire the awe-inspiring ocean vistas and immerse yourself in the wild, panoramic landscapes. The breathtaking drive is a must-do for any traveller seeking to experience the rugged beauty and natural wonders the West Coast is best known for.
Although it’s possible to drive straight through the Great Coast Road in 90 minutes, doing so would mean passing up on some incredible natural phenomena and enchanting hidden gems scattered along the route.
West Coast accommodation options range from campgrounds to motels and resorts scattered along the Great Coast Road for those who wish to immerse themselves in the experience.
We have travelled countless times along the Great Coast Road NZ, and we’ve also explored several breathtaking coastal drives worldwide, including the Great Ocean Road in Australia, Big Sur Coast Highway in California, and the Amalfi Coast Drive in Italy. We can confidently say the Great Coast Road New Zealand is the best coastal drive in the world!
Get ready for frequent stops on your journey, as there are numerous photo opportunities at every turn. If you notice a sign for a lookout, be sure to pull over, as the lookouts on the West Coast are truly breathtaking and worth stopping for every time.
Getting to the Great Coast Road New Zealand
You can make your West Coast New Zealand road trip either from Greymouth to Westport or Westport to Greymouth.
However, if you’re not leaving the West Coast region to travel to other South Island regions, you will need to return on the same route.
We’ve noticed that some travellers consider skipping this incredible road trip due to this fact. However, you don’t have to worry as it’s not a disadvantage. It offers a chance to experience the marvels in both directions.
If you are coming to the West Coast from Picton, Blenheim or Nelson, you will arrive at Westport and take the Westport to Greymouth drive.
Alternatively, many travellers arrive into Greymouth from Christchurch and explore the West Coast from there.
You can even opt for the scenic TranzAlpine train ride from Christchurch to Greymouth before renting a car in Greymouth to start your West Coast road trip adventure.
You then set off on State Highway 6, also known as the Great Coast Road New Zealand, from Greymouth to Westport.
If you don’t have a car or would rather skip the hassle of driving, Get Your Guide, the online platform for booking tours and activities, has several tour options that let you explore the best of the West Coast. From scenic drives to wildlife experiences, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights without the distraction of driving.
Prominent Landmarks Along the Great Coast Road New Zealand
As you’re driving the West Coast road, you’ll encounter incredible vistas, awe-inspiring lookouts and inspiring bush or coastal walks that will leave you in awe of New Zealand’s natural splendour.
The Great Coast Road New Zealand is defined by its stunning ocean views, majestic mountains, and rainforest, making the road trip itself the most noteworthy landmark.
Besides that, the most prominent landmark on the West Coast is the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki. These unique limestone formations, resembling stacks of pancakes, result from millions of years of geological evolution.
The waves crashing against these rocks create a spectacular display, leaving visitors entralled.
READ NEXT: Why visit the stunning Pancake Rocks.
Charming Towns and Villages to Visit
As you travel along the Great Coast Road, you’ll encounter a few quaint villages contributing to the road’s charm.
Greymouth
Greymouth is a great place to start or end your West Coast South Island road trip.
The town is well-known for its friendly locals, warm hospitality, and great options for refuelling, shopping, and dining at cafes.
Take advantage of experiencing all Greymouth offers, including historic sites, river walks and its own brewery.
Read:
The Best Things to Do in Greymouth New Zealand
Top 4 restaurants in Greymouth
Barrytown
Just 20 minutes from Greymouth lies the remote settlement of Barrytown.
While there, you can visit a historic pub during your Greymouth to Westport drive, though please note that it’s currently for sale and is closed.
You can drive from the pub down the road leading to the beach. At Barrytown’s beach, you’ll likely find yourself as the only person on this vast expanse of sand.
This area is well-known for its abundance of pounamu, also known as New Zealand greenstone or jade. It’s worth looking around – you never know, you might come across a gemstone!
Additionally, at Barrytown, you can enjoy a unique travel experience on a horse-drawn cart along the breathtaking Barrytown Beach.
Golden Sands Horse & Wagon Tours offer a delightful history lesson while showing you the hospitality of the West Coast by boiling a billy and baking damper bread over an open fire.
Punakaiki
A further 15 minutes along the route, you’ll reach the delightful village of Punakaiki. Here, you can experience the iconic Pancake Rocks & Blowholes or enjoy one of the many short scenic walks.
Punakaiki offers many outdoor activities ranging from kayaking or paddle boarding, visiting a cavern, enjoying breathtaking sunset views on the beach, eating at a waterfront restaurant or taking in the unique landscapes of limestone cliffs, nikau palms and fern trees.
It’s a magical place to rest or stay awhile before continuing your West Coast road trip.
Charleston
Further down the road, Charleston, a historic gold mining town, offers a glimpse into the area’s gold rush past. The village is on Coast Road, and a short walk will take you to the charming Constant Bay.
From Charleston, you can go on underground adventures to discover caves adorned with remarkable stalagmites and stalactites and see glowworms.
Westport
Your journey ends at the endearing town of Westport.
Westport offers some fun attractions, such as the Coaltown Museum, which sheds light on the town’s rich coal mining history.
Find out more about the cool attractions and natural wonders of Westport.
However, if you love road trips, please keep driving north and experience the delights of Karamea. Read more about Karamea.
What to See and Do on The Great Coast Road New Zealand
The Great Coast Road New Zealand is not just about the destination; it’s about the unforgettable experiences you’ll encounter along the way.
Monteith’s Brewery
If you’re a fan of craft beer, then a visit to Monteith’s Brewery in Greymouth is a must. Take a tour of the brewery and learn about the art of beer-making. And, of course, remember to sample some of their finest brews.
Point Elizabeth Walkway
Walk along the Point Elizabeth Walkway for panoramic Greymouth and Tasman Sea views. This scenic trail offers breathtaking vistas and a chance to spot native birdlife amidst the native bush.
Point Elizabeth Walkway is just one of the fun outdoor activities in Greymouth. Read more about Things to do in Greymouth.
Strongman Mine Memorial
Located near Greymouth, the Strongman Mine Memorial is a poignant tribute to the 1967 tragic mining disaster that killed nineteen men.
The Strongman Memorial is a place of reflection and remembrance, adding a profound dimension to your coastal journey.
It not only serves as a memorial but also offers breathtaking coastal views. You’ll be treated to the awe-inspiring beauty of the surrounding coastline and be humbled by the captivating vistas that grace the West Coast’s rugged shoreline.
Cape Foulwind
A 15-minute drive from Westport, discover one of the West Coasts best short walks, where you can see a historic lighthouse, scenic views of the coast and fur seals in their natural habitat.
The Tauranga Bay Seal Colony is New Zealand’s biggest fur seal colony and can be reached on a well-maintained walking track from Cape Foulwind to Tauranga Bay. You’ll be mesmerized by scenic ocean views along the way.
The rugged beauty of the New Zealand coastline, combined with the playful antics of the lovable seals, makes for an unforgettable experience.
The Cape Foulwind walk to Tauranga Bay is an easy walk you can start from either direction, and you can do sections of the walk. For detailed information on route options, how to get to the walk, what you will see, and a picture gallery, read our story via the link above.
Mitchells Gully Gold Mine
Step back in time and delve into the fascinating history of gold mining on the West Coast with a visit to Mitchells Gully Gold Mine. This hidden gem allows you to experience the authentic atmosphere of a working gold mine from the 19th century. Explore the tunnels, see the old machinery, and hear stories of the brave prospectors who once sought their fortunes here. The rich heritage of Mitchells Gully Gold Mine makes it a truly immersive and educational stop on your West Coast South Island road trip.
Read Next: The Best West Coast Walks You Don’t Want To Miss.
Is the Great Coast Road one of the best scenic drives in South Island, New Zealand?
Yes! We consider it one of the best coastal drives in the world, and so does Lonely Planet!
The Great Coast Road drive from Greymouth to Westport is a journey of awe and wonder, with awe inspiring moments at every turn.
From the fascinating Pancake Rocks to the charming towns and extraordinary landscapes, the West Coast of New Zealand is sure to be one of your favourite destinations in New Zealand.
The Great Coast Road is an excellent option if you’re looking for adventure and the best scenic drives in New Zealand.
This New Zealand South Island West Coast road trip will take your breath away and is a great way to experience the best of New Zealand.
I love coastal road trips and this looks magnificent. So much to see! I would especially like to see the glow worms (I had heard about these!) and explore the gold mines. How long would you suggest taking to fully explore this route and all it has to offer?
Apologies for the late reply as we just saw this. It really is up to you how long you spend.Many people spend just 2-3 days in the area. However if you love taking remote bush and seaside walks,theres atleast 1-2 wks worth near the Great Coast Road and surrounds.