Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Napier?

Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Napier?

Many visitors spend two to three days in Napier during their trip. If you're not sure how much time you might need here, we have the answers because your journey calls for making the most of every moment. The town offers the chance to lounge on the beach, spend time at the museums, go hiking, and dine out at amazing restaurants.

Napier is a popular coastal city on the North Island of New Zealand. It was destroyed by an earthquake in 1931 and it has been rebuilt with many art deco landmarks. There's also an activity-filled waterfront promenade and many beautiful beaches in the area. The city is surrounded by vineyards and wineries, so it's worth spending a day exploring the area.

Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Napier? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.

Is 3 days enough time in Napier?

Three days for Napier is often considered ideal, as many people spend two to three days for a beach trip to the area. This would usually give you enough time to lounge on the beach, spend time at the museums, go hiking, and dine out at amazing restaurants. Further down, you'll find our recommendations to kick off your adventure.

How to spend 3 days in Napier

The beautiful beaches await you in Napier, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. It's a popular beach destination and you'll find plenty of beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and playing with the kids. You'll want to head out of town to find the best and most beautiful beaches. For hidden beaches and some of the area's best surf, head to Mahia Peninsula. To escape the tourists and hang out with the locals, go to Waipatiki Beach. And for a picnic, Westshore Beach is a favorite. Waimarama Beach is another favorite in the area as well.

The restaurant and food scene here is top notch, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine. With its many wineries and big mix of fine dining restaurants, there is plenty for a foodie to enjoy around town. You'll find restaurants that serve up New Zealand favorites as well as those that experiment with modern and trendy recipes.

A few tour suggestions include:

Half Day Small-Group Hawkes Bay Wine Tour ($95)
Napier Afternoon Wine, & Gin Tasting (Thurs thru to Saturdays ) ($92)
Deco Napier, Te Mata Peak, Wine & Cheese tasting ($85)

Don't miss the art deco architecture during your trip to Napier, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The nightlife scene is diverse and fun. Whether you're looking for a wild party or just want to relax with a drink and some friends, there are plenty of places where you can hang out.

A number of fantastic museums and famous landmarks are found in Napier, so spend at least one full day exploring those that look the most appealing to you. Considered an "Art Deco capital", there are many interesting buildings around town and it's worth taking an Art Deco Walk. The National Aquarium of New Zealand is also impressive as is the MTG Hawke's Bay, which is a museum, gallery, and theater in one. For something a little outside the box, you can visit the Napier Prison, which is New Zealand's oldest place of incarceration, dating back to 1862.

There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Napier.

Is 4 days enough time in Napier?

Four days is more than enough time to enjoy the beach and other activities in Napier. You can move at your own pace and relax at your hotel and on the beach. You could also use Napier as a base for exploring the nearby destinations. You'll find some great day trips in the region worth doing.

Outside of Napier, New Zealand

How to spend 4 days in Napier

If you have more than 4 days in Napier, you'll appreciate the added time for everything the town has to offer.

Known for it's hiking, Napier sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. Hawke's Bay is filled with wonderful walks and hikes. There are easy coastal paths as well as mult-day treks around Lake Waikaremoana. It's not hard to find somewhere to stretch your legs and explore the scenery.

Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.

Is 5 days enough time in Napier?

Five days provides ample opportunity in Napier to enjoy the beaches, the famous sights and museums, the hiking, and the food. Then you can use the city as a convenient base for venturing into nearby destinations where you'll discover exciting day trip options. We have some suggestions below for your trip. Families, couples, and backpackers enjoy the area for its activities, too.

How to spend 5 days in Napier

Having 5 days in Napier will provide you with more time to take in the best activities in the town.

Shopping in Napier is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. You'll find all of the standard New Zealand retail chains as well antique and boutique shops. With its many Art Deco buildings, the city has character and personality.

More Info

If you're looking for more information about Napier, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.