Fodor's Expert Review Punakaiki Resort

The modern beach house design at this resort blends well with the dynamic coastal site; the front steps almost reach to the beach. There's a mix of hotel rooms on the seaward side of the road and villas across the road. Ask for a room on the seaward side for a pretty, surf-crashing view. The villas are more spacious and have small kitchenettes. A pedestrian tunnel goes under the road so you don't have to dodge the tourist traffic. Jacob's Grill Restaurant and the Club Bar serves modern New Zealand fare.