There’s a moment on every good West Coast tramp that’s hard to beat. It’s when you’ve pushed through that last stretch of track, the ferns have given way to the car park, and you peel off your muddy boots. The air is cool, your legs have that satisfying hum, and your mind is clear, filled with nothing but the sound of birdsong and waterfalls. You’ve earned your dinner. And around here, there’s only one place to go when you’re in that state of happy exhaustion: the Monsoon Bar.

Look, we’re not a place for airs and graces. We’re about what’s real, and after a day out on the trails—whether you’ve been chasing glacier views or exploring ancient rainforest paths—what you need is something genuinely good. That’s the whole idea behind the Monsoon Bar & Grill here at Rainforest Retreat. It’s a place to land.

From the Trail to the Table

The best part about finishing a hike and heading to the Monsoon is that you can come as you are. Got a bit of mud on your trousers? No one’s going to bat an eye. In fact, it’s a bit of a badge of honour. It means you’ve been out there, really experiencing the Coast.

Find a spot inside by the fire if there’s a bit of a chill in the air, or if the sun’s decided to stick around, grab a table out on the deck. There’s nothing better than sinking into a chair, taking that first long pull of a cold local brew, and just listening. You’ll hear the chatter of fellow travellers swapping stories from their day’s adventures, the friendly yarn of the staff, and the ever-present soundtrack of the native bush that surrounds us. It’s the kind of atmosphere you can’t manufacture.

Good Grub for Hungry Hikers

Let’s be honest, after a few hours on your feet, you’re not after a tiny, fancy meal. You want something hearty, something that’ll fill the tank and taste incredible. And that’s exactly what the kitchen crew delivers.

We’re talking generous plates of classic Kiwi kai, done right. Think perfectly cooked steaks, fresh-as-it-gets fish and chips that taste of the nearby sea, or a proper good burger that requires two hands. We get our ingredients from just down the road where we can, because good food starts with good people who care about what they’re growing. It’s simple, really. It’s food that feels like a reward, and it’s exactly what your body and soul are craving.

The Coaster’s Wind-Down

As the evening settles in and the light fades over the peaks, you’ll realise that this—right here—is what the West Coast is all about. It’s not just about the epic landscapes. It’s about the feeling you get when you come back from them. It’s the easy-going comfort, the great food, the cold beer, and the shared sense of having done something real with your day.

So next time you’re planning a wander into our wild backyard, make sure you plan the finish line right here. We’ll keep a seat warm for you.