Picton tours

Things to do in Picton

Picton, lying between verdant hills and the serene waters of Queen Charlotte Sound, serves as the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds' splendour. The town's welcoming atmosphere is as invigorating as the ocean breeze upon arrival. On Picton tours, a local guide will lead you beyond the lively harbour to uncover secluded beaches and hidden coves. Consider a food and wine tour to savour the region’s famed Sauvignon Blanc. Private tours in Picton let you bypass the crowds, offering genuine encounters curated by someone who knows the area intimately. Experience Picton's allure with a personal touch. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Picton. Explore Picton your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Picton tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Picton for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Join a boat to Queen Charlotte Sound to spot dolphins and little blue penguins, then step onto Motuara Island bird sanctuary for close-up encounters with tūī and korimako. Prefer to stay on land? Your guide can lead you along the Snout Track or Tirohanga Track for harbour views and native bush, or set up a kayak paddle in calm coves. Layover tours: With ferry or cruise timings in mind, stroll to Bobs Bay for a quick swim, visit the Edwin Fox Museum to see one of the world’s oldest ships, and still make it back in time. If you have a few extra hours, your guide can arrange a quick water taxi to walk a scenic section of the Queen Charlotte Track. Food and Drink tours: Head into Marlborough for tastings at cellar doors like Cloudy Bay, Allan Scott, or Saint Clair, pairing sauvignon blanc with local cheeses. Add a stop in Havelock for green-lipped mussels fresh from Pelorus Sound or join a mussel cruise to sample them on the water. Picton’s town centre is compact and walkable, but public transport is limited; for wineries, trailheads, or Havelock, you can book a chauffeured tour or ask your local guide to include private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Picton inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Picton on a private walking tour and consider adding these neighborhoods to your itinerary with a local guide. It's the best way to truly get to know the area. - Shelley Beach: A family-friendly spot where you can enjoy the serene beach and picnic areas, perfect for a relaxed day by the water. - Waikawa Bay: Known for its scenic marina, this area is great for those interested in boating or simply enjoying the views. Ideal for family outings and leisurely walks. - The Marina: A bustling hub for cultural tourists who want to enjoy waterfront dining and explore local crafts at the nearby markets. - Victoria Domain: Offers hiking trails and stunning views, catering to tourists seeking a connection with nature and adventure. Day trip ideas from Picton Use Picton as your springboard for coastal lookouts, short hikes, and wine country day trips that pair well with your tour and the pace you like. - Marlborough Wine Country (Blenheim & Renwick): Visit cellar doors for crisp sauvignon blanc, add a vineyard platter, and roll between estates on quiet country roads; ideal for wine fans and easygoing food days, with your tour keeping tastings relaxed and the driving sorted. - Queen Charlotte Track (selected section): Boat out to a bayside start, then walk a scenic ridge through native bush with views across the Sounds before cruising back; hikers and photographers get big vistas without committing to the whole track, and short sections work well if you prefer a lighter challenge. - Havelock & Pelorus Bridge: Try green-lipped mussels in the small harbour town, then head to Pelorus River for clear pools, swing bridges, and short forest walks; good for families and anyone who wants a mix of local flavour and easy nature time in one day. - Kaikōura Coast: Follow a dramatic shoreline to the peninsula walk where seals haul out on the rocks, hit seafood spots in town, and pause at lookouts for long views; road-trippers and wildlife spotters get a fuller day that still stays straightforward. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Picton most travellers miss.