Trail and a treat: Outdoor combos in Wellington

Swim at Scorching Bay followed by brunch at Scorch-O-Rama

Scorching Bay is a popular sandy beach on the Miramar Peninsula. Watch the boats go by in the harbour while having a quick dip. The bay has plenty of starfish-filled rock pools and a playground for children.
Once you’re done with your swim, you’re a few steps from Scorch-O-Rama cafés hearty menu. Across the road from the café, there’s outdoor seating right beside the beach. A pedestrian crossing keeps you safe. Havana Roastery supplies the excellent coffee.

497 Karaka Bay Road, Karaka Bays, Wellington | Scorch-O-Rama — Instagram

Walk Escarpment and have lunch at Beach Road Deli 

The Escarpment Track runs from Paekākāriki to Pukerua Bay, taking in sweeping views of the spectacular Kāpiti Coast and Kapiti Island. After a short walk, you’ll start climbing 220 metres above sea level. Navigate steep pathways, ridgelines, and two swing bridges. While you can walk in either direction, heading north means a good meal at Beach Road Deli awaits at the finish line. 

The café is great for refuelling with good food and coffee. Choose a bagel from the menu, or take your pick from the cabinet. It’s full of fresh baking, sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Vegan and gluten-free options cater for most dietary needs.

5 Beach Rd, Paekākāriki, Kāpiti Coast | Beach Road Deli

Lunch at Beach Babylon and a walk up Mount Victoria

The relaxed Beach Babylon is perfect for breakfast or lunch. With Oriental Bay Beach over the road, there is a constant stream of Wellington life passing by. The café serves as a launching point to pursue views from the Mount Victoria Lookout.

The 4.5km walkway begins in Mount Victoria or Oriental Bay and climbs through the historic pine forests. The views from the top reveal the Ōrongorongo Track Ranges to the north and the Southern Alps on the South Island.

232 Oriental Parade, Oriental Bay, Wellington | Beach Babylon

Stroll along Petone Beach with a stop at Seashore Cabaret

Seashore Cabaret is housed on the beach in the historic Petone Rowing Club. The first-floor café overlooks Wellington harbour. The menu is as fun as the eclectic décor. Try the curly fries, ice cream and soda floats, or extra thick thick-shakes.

Along the water’s edge, you can gather seashells, use the playground, or visit the Petone Settlers Museum. Further down the beach at Hikoikoi Reserve you’ll find a dog exercise area and disc golf course.

160 The Esplanade, Petone, Lower Hutt | Seashore Cabaret

Adventure the South Coast and brunch at Beach House and Kiosk

Beach House and Kiosk is perched on the edge of the Taputeranga Marine Reserve between Ōwhiro and Island Bay. Grab a coffee and watch the pounding waves. Among the breakfast and lunch offerings, you'll find homemade granola and Croque Madame.

After your meal, cross the road to the Siren Rocks and check out rock pools for sea creatures. The rugged South Coast is also home to a fur seal colony.

410 The Esplanade, Island Bay, Wellington | Beach House and Kiosk

Ride to Pencarrow Lighthouse and lunch at Hive Café

Pencarrow Coast Road is a popular walking and biking trail beginning at Burdan’s Gate in Eastbourne. It leads to the Pencarrow Lighthouse near the Cook Strait shores. After the 14km round trip reward yourself with a meal at Hive in Eastbourne.

The popular gathering place has a communal sun-soaked courtyard. The house-roasted coffee is a big drawcard. There are also salads, vegetarian dishes, and comforting baked goods. The vintage retro décor adds to the homely atmosphere.

16 Rimu Street, Eastbourne, Lower Hutt | Hive Café

Ara Harakeke beach walk and lunch at Supply Room

Catch a train from Parramatta to Pukerua Bay, and meander back along the Ara Harakeke Pathway. This Kāpiti Coast trail runs alongside the railway and waterfront. Look out for the rock pools and native flora and fauna.

Supply Room is a five-minute walk from Mana Station. Bathed in all-day sun, you can sit outside with a cold drink and survey the horizon from the second-storey balcony. There are hearty mains along with a range of sharing platters.

105 Mana Esplanade, Paremata, Porirua | Supply Room

Walk up Waimapihi and have lunch at Garage Project

Take in some of the best views of the city from the Brooklyn Wind Turbine track. The trail takes you through Waimapihi Reserve to the summit and back. It’s an easy route popular with mountain bikers, runners, and walkers. The trail is down the road from local brewery Garage Project’s taproom.

Choose from a dozen tap beers, two cask lines, and a few hidden cellar specialities. The food ranges from Elysian Greek marinated olives and Arobake toasted honey ciabatta, to toasted cheese melts.

68 Aro Street, Aro Valley, Wellington | Garage Project