Check Out the Beaches in Christchurch This Summer
Summer is just around the corner - already we're feeling the hot days and the summer sun in New Zealand - it's finally time to pull out the board shorts and bikinis (hopefully not the speedos!) and hit the beach. With lots of attractions and plenty of accommodation, the country's main centres are some of the most popular tourist destinations. Because New Zealand is a bit smaller and a whole lot more coastal than most countries, even if you are visiting an urban centre you still have the opportunity to find some great sand and some blue water.
Christchurch is the hub of the South Island. In 2010 and 2011, two earthquakes rocked the CBD but, fortunately, the city is well on the road to recovery and even busier than usual because of it! If you're planning a trip to the South Island than this is likely your number one destination - why not make the most of it? Check out a few of these Christchurch beaches this summer and enjoy the holiday sun.
Sumner
Christchurch's most popular beach with its own little township built around surf, sand and fun. Close to 9km of beach looks out over the South Pacific - Sumner has plenty for everyone. Surfboard and bodyboard hire can be found near the Clock Tower and there are always lessons being advertised if you're new to the sport.
It's important to take a break and cool off too! There are a number of cafes and places to stop off and grab an ice cream in Sumner Village. You might even consider staying later into the evening and checking out a few of the restaurants and eateries.
New Brighton
New Brighton spans for miles along the coast and is known for the Brighton Pier, a focal point that stretches out 300m over the sea. There are plenty of places to sit down and have a bite to eat on the beach and those craving a bit of a rush can take part in kite surfing too.
Bars, restaurants and shops are all a short walk away from the sand so if you're craving anything it's no trouble to find it. You can visit the library just by the water if you want some time out of the sun or even fish off of the pier if you want to land a catch.
Akaroa
It's a bit of a drive at 90 minutes from the city centre, but Akaroa in Banks Peninsula is too good not to mention. Grab something to eat and go out on a whale watching tour at this little French settlement -visitors can even swim with the local Hector's dolphins. Small local boutique shops are incredibly popular and it's hard not to pick up a souvenir during your visit.
Make the most of your stay in Christchurch at some of the city's best beaches. There's no better way to enjoy the summer sun than by the water!
Christchurch is the hub of the South Island. In 2010 and 2011, two earthquakes rocked the CBD but, fortunately, the city is well on the road to recovery and even busier than usual because of it! If you're planning a trip to the South Island than this is likely your number one destination - why not make the most of it? Check out a few of these Christchurch beaches this summer and enjoy the holiday sun.
Sumner
Christchurch's most popular beach with its own little township built around surf, sand and fun. Close to 9km of beach looks out over the South Pacific - Sumner has plenty for everyone. Surfboard and bodyboard hire can be found near the Clock Tower and there are always lessons being advertised if you're new to the sport.
It's important to take a break and cool off too! There are a number of cafes and places to stop off and grab an ice cream in Sumner Village. You might even consider staying later into the evening and checking out a few of the restaurants and eateries.
New Brighton
New Brighton spans for miles along the coast and is known for the Brighton Pier, a focal point that stretches out 300m over the sea. There are plenty of places to sit down and have a bite to eat on the beach and those craving a bit of a rush can take part in kite surfing too.
Bars, restaurants and shops are all a short walk away from the sand so if you're craving anything it's no trouble to find it. You can visit the library just by the water if you want some time out of the sun or even fish off of the pier if you want to land a catch.
Akaroa
It's a bit of a drive at 90 minutes from the city centre, but Akaroa in Banks Peninsula is too good not to mention. Grab something to eat and go out on a whale watching tour at this little French settlement -visitors can even swim with the local Hector's dolphins. Small local boutique shops are incredibly popular and it's hard not to pick up a souvenir during your visit.
Make the most of your stay in Christchurch at some of the city's best beaches. There's no better way to enjoy the summer sun than by the water!