Best Camping Grounds in Napier: Explore the Top 5 Sites for Unforgettable Coastal Adventures
Looking for the best camping grounds in Napier to immerse yourself in the Art Deco charm and coastal beauty of Hawke’s Bay? Napier, renowned for its sunny climate, vibrant wineries, and stunning beaches, offers a range of campgrounds perfect for families, couples, and adventurers. From beachfront retreats to urban parks, these sites provide ideal bases to explore attractions like Cape Kidnappers and Te Mata Peak.
We’ve selected the top five camping grounds in Napier, each celebrated for their facilities, scenic locations, and welcoming atmospheres. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking a campervan, or seeking a cozy cabin, these campgrounds ensure a memorable outdoor experience. Let’s dive into the best places to camp in Napier, NZ!
1. Kennedy Park Resort Napier
About the Business
Kennedy Park Resort Napier, located in the heart of Napier, is Hawke’s Bay’s largest holiday park, boasting a Four Star Plus Qualmark rating. Set on 5 hectares of landscaped grounds, this family-friendly resort is known for its extensive amenities and proximity to attractions like the National Aquarium and Marineland, making it a top choice for visitors.
Key Services / What They Offer
Specializing in camping in Napier, the park offers powered and non-powered sites, cabins, self-contained units, and motel rooms. Amenities include a heated swimming pool, playground, BBQ areas, communal kitchens, modern bathrooms, laundry, free Wi-Fi, a games room, and an on-site restaurant, Storkey’s Café & Bar. Bike hire and tour bookings are also available.
Who It’s For
Ideal for families, groups, and campervan travelers seeking a central location with kid-friendly activities, as well as those wanting easy access to Napier’s Art Deco tours, wineries, and coastal walks.
What to Expect
Expect a vibrant, well-maintained park with lush greenery and spacious sites, perfect for 2-5 night stays. Guests enjoy the pool, playground, and nearby attractions, with check-in from 2:00 PM. The friendly staff provide local guides, and the restaurant offers convenient dining. The park’s clean facilities and diverse accommodation options ensure a comfortable experience.
Standout Features
- Four Star Plus Qualmark rating for quality assurance.
- On-site Storkey’s Café & Bar for easy dining.
- Central location, just 5 minutes from Napier’s CBD.
Customer Feedback
Guests rave about the “fantastic facilities” and family-oriented vibe, with reviews praising the clean bathrooms, heated pool, and spacious sites. Families highlight the playground and games room as kid favorites, noting the park’s convenience for exploring Napier’s attractions.
Why Choose Them?
Kennedy Park Resort Napier’s extensive amenities and prime location make it a top choice for camping grounds in Napier, offering a perfect blend of comfort and adventure.
Location & Contact Details
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Website: www.kennedypark.co.nz
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2. Napier Beach Kiwi Holiday Park & Motels
About the Business
Napier Beach Kiwi Holiday Park & Motels, located 8km north of Napier’s CBD, is a serene beachfront campground spanning 9 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Known for its quiet, clean environment, this park is a favorite for those seeking a coastal escape with easy access to Bay View’s beaches and local wineries.
Key Services / What They Offer
Offering beach camping in Napier, they provide powered and non-powered sites, cabins, motel units, and self-contained apartments. Amenities include a communal kitchen, modern bathrooms, laundry, free Wi-Fi, a BBQ area, a playground, and a fish filleting station for anglers. Bike hire and tour bookings enhance the experience.
Who It’s For
Suitable for families, couples, and anglers wanting direct beach access, as well as campervan travelers seeking a peaceful retreat near Napier’s attractions and Hawke’s Bay’s vineyards.
What to Expect
Anticipate a spacious, well-kept park with a relaxed coastal vibe, ideal for 2-4 night stays. Guests enjoy beach walks, fishing, and the playground, with check-in from 2:00 PM. The hosts offer local tips, and the fish filleting station is a hit with anglers. Facilities are clean, and the beachfront setting ensures stunning sunsets.
Standout Features
- Beachfront location with direct access to Bay View Beach.
- Fish filleting station for fresh catches.
- Spacious 9-acre grounds for a peaceful stay.
Customer Feedback
Reviews highlight the “tranquil beach setting” and spotless facilities, with campers praising the friendly hosts and large sites. Anglers appreciate the filleting station, and families note the playground and safe beach as perfect for kids, calling it a “coastal haven.”
Why Choose Them?
Napier Beach Kiwi Holiday Park’s beachfront serenity and angler-friendly amenities make it a standout for camping in Napier, ideal for a relaxing coastal getaway.
Location & Contact Details
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Website: www.napierbeach.co.nz
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3. Waipatiki Beach Holiday Park
About the Business
Waipatiki Beach Holiday Park, located 30km north of Napier, is a secluded beachfront campground nestled in a pristine coastal valley. Family-run and eco-conscious, this park offers a peaceful retreat with direct access to a sandy beach, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers.
Key Services / What They Offer
Providing coastal camping in Napier, they offer powered and non-powered sites, basic cabins, and self-contained units. Amenities include a communal kitchen, modern bathrooms, laundry, a BBQ area, and a small playground. The beach supports swimming, fishing, and kayaking, with walking tracks nearby.
Who It’s For
Perfect for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a remote beachside escape, as well as those wanting to explore Hawke’s Bay’s northern coast or enjoy water-based activities.
What to Expect
Expect a compact, eco-friendly park with a tranquil setting, ideal for 2-5 night stays. Guests enjoy beach activities and bush walks, with check-in from 1:00 PM. The hosts provide a warm welcome and local insights, and the clean facilities enhance the natural experience, though amenities are simpler than urban parks.
Standout Features
- Secluded beachfront location for swimming and fishing.
- Eco-conscious operations with a focus on nature.
- Nearby walking tracks for coastal exploration.
Customer Feedback
Campers describe the park as a “slice of paradise,” praising the pristine beach and quiet atmosphere. Reviews highlight the clean facilities and friendly hosts, with families noting the safe swimming and kayaking as highlights, calling it a “must-visit” for nature lovers.
Why Choose Them?
Waipatiki Beach Holiday Park’s secluded coastal charm and eco-friendly ethos make it a top pick for camping grounds in Napier, perfect for a nature-focused retreat.
Location & Contact Details
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Website: www.waipatikibeach.co.nz
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4. Westshore Holiday Park
About the Business
Westshore Holiday Park, situated 5km from Napier’s CBD, is a beachfront campground offering a relaxed, family-friendly environment. Located near Westshore Beach, this park is known for its affordability and proximity to urban attractions, making it a convenient choice for city and coastal adventures.
Key Services / What They Offer
Offering holiday parks in Napier, they provide powered and non-powered sites, cabins, and self-contained units. Amenities include a communal kitchen, modern bathrooms, laundry, free Wi-Fi, a BBQ area, and a small playground. The park is close to cycling trails and the Ahuriri Estuary for birdwatching.
Who It’s For
Suitable for families, budget travelers, and cyclists wanting beach access and urban proximity, as well as those exploring Napier’s Art Deco precinct or nearby wineries.
What to Expect
Anticipate a tidy, medium-sized park with a coastal vibe, ideal for 1-3 night stays. Guests enjoy beach walks, cycling, and easy drives to Napier’s attractions, with check-in from 2:00 PM. The facilities are clean, and the hosts offer local recommendations, though the playground is modest compared to larger resorts.
Standout Features
- Beachfront access to Westshore Beach for walks.
- Close to cycling trails and Ahuriri Estuary.
- Affordable rates with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Customer Feedback
Guests appreciate the “great location” and clean facilities, with reviews noting the convenience for city visits and beach strolls. Cyclists highlight the nearby trails, and families value the affordability, describing it as a “solid base” for Napier exploration.
Why Choose Them?
Westshore Holiday Park’s beachside location and budget-friendly options make it a top destination for camping in Napier, blending coastal and urban convenience.
Location & Contact Details
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Website: www.westshoreholidaypark.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
5. Esk Valley Lodge Camping
About the Business
Esk Valley Lodge Camping, located 15km north of Napier in the scenic Esk Valley, is a boutique campground set within a boutique B&B and vineyard. Offering a peaceful, rural retreat, this family-run site is ideal for those seeking a quiet escape surrounded by Hawke’s Bay’s wine country and orchards.
Key Services / What They Offer
Providing rural camping in Napier, they offer powered and non-powered sites, with access to shared facilities including a modern bathroom, kitchenette, and BBQ area. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, orchard tours, and proximity to Esk River for kayaking or fishing.
Who It’s For
Perfect for couples, wine enthusiasts, and small groups wanting a serene, vineyard setting, as well as those exploring Hawke’s Bay’s northern wineries or outdoor activities.
What to Expect
Expect a small, intimate campground with lush surroundings, ideal for 1-3 night stays. Guests enjoy the rural tranquility, wine tastings, and river activities, with check-in from 1:00 PM. The hosts provide personalized service, and the shared facilities are clean, though simpler than larger holiday parks.
Standout Features
- Vineyard setting with on-site wine tastings.
- Access to Esk River for kayaking and fishing.
- Intimate, boutique experience with personalized hospitality.
Customer Feedback
Reviews praise the “peaceful vineyard vibe” and warm hosts, with guests noting the delicious wine tastings and scenic surroundings. Couples highlight the romantic setting and clean facilities, calling it a “perfect retreat” for a quiet Hawke’s Bay getaway.
Why Choose Them?
Esk Valley Lodge Camping’s rural charm and vineyard experience make it a top pick for camping grounds in Napier, offering a unique, serene escape.
Location & Contact Details
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Website: www.eskvalleylodge.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
Conclusion: Plan Your Perfect Camping Adventure in Napier
The best camping grounds in Napier—Kennedy Park Resort Napier, Napier Beach Kiwi Holiday Park, Waipatiki Beach Holiday Park, Westshore Holiday Park, and Esk Valley Lodge Camping—offer diverse experiences for every camper. With beachfront access, family-friendly amenities, and rural vineyard retreats, these sites provide the perfect base to explore Napier’s Art Deco heritage, wineries, and coastal beauty.
Ready to embrace Hawke’s Bay’s sunny shores? Book your stay at one of these top Napier camping grounds and enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure. Pack your tent or campervan and create lasting memories under the stars today!
Helpful Information About Napier Camping Grounds
Camping grounds in Napier offer an ideal way to enjoy the sunny Hawke’s Bay region while staying close to iconic attractions like Marine Parade, Cape Kidnappers, and the Te Mata Peak walking trails. From beachside retreats in Bay View to charming parklands near the Art Deco CBD, campers can choose from a variety of scenic sites with great amenities. Whether you’re arriving in a tent, motorhome, or seeking a cozy cabin or self-contained unit, Napier’s campgrounds offer something for every type of traveler. The region’s mild climate and coastal charm make it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Many Napier camping grounds are located near bike trails, vineyards, safe swimming beaches, and nature reserves, offering convenient access to the best of the Hawke’s Bay lifestyle. Options range from budget-friendly family parks to boutique vineyard hideaways, each offering a unique experience of the area’s coastal setting and warm hospitality. Facilities like communal kitchens, BBQ areas, and playgrounds add extra comfort to your outdoor stay. Whether it’s a summer holiday or a weekend getaway, camping in Napier is a fun and relaxing way to explore the region’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.
Choosing the Right Camping Ground in Napier
- Consider the campground’s proximity to local attractions like Napier’s CBD, Marine Parade, or Hawke’s Bay wineries for easy sightseeing access.
- Look for sites that match your accommodation style—whether that’s powered campervan sites, tent pitches, or cabins with amenities.
- Beach camping options offer direct access to shoreline walks and fishing, while inland sites may provide a quieter, nature-rich environment.
- Families should seek out campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities like playgrounds, games rooms, and swimming pools.
- If you’re traveling in peak season, booking in advance is recommended, as popular Napier sites can fill up quickly during holidays.
- Check for site-specific rules and pet policies, especially if traveling with pets or planning longer stays.
Frequently Asked Questions About Napier Camping Grounds
What types of accommodations are available at camping grounds in Napier?
Napier camping grounds typically offer a range of options including powered and non-powered tent sites, campervan bays, basic cabins, and self-contained units or motel-style rooms. This variety caters to all kinds of travelers, from solo backpackers to large families.
Are Napier camping grounds suitable for families with children?
Yes, many camping grounds in Napier are family-friendly and come equipped with facilities like playgrounds, games rooms, swimming pools, and safe beach access. These features make them ideal for family vacations and outdoor adventures with kids.
When is the best time to go camping in Napier?
The best months for camping in Napier are generally from October through April when the weather is warm, dry, and sunny. Napier’s temperate climate makes it great for outdoor activities most of the year, but summer is especially popular.
Do Napier camping grounds have cooking and bathroom facilities?
Yes, most established camping grounds in Napier provide communal kitchens, modern bathroom blocks with hot showers, and laundry services. Some even include BBQ areas, cafés, and dishwashing stations for added convenience.
Can I camp near the beach in Napier?
Absolutely. There are several beachside camping grounds in areas like Bay View, Westshore, and Waipatiki Beach offering direct or close access to sandy shores. These sites are ideal for swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying Napier’s coastal views.
