Spend a weekend in Grand Bend at the Kiwi Motel

Located at the top of Main Street a short walk away from the beach The Kiwi Motel is an adorable new development in the area. Grand Bend, is one of Ontario’s favourite beaches stretching 25 miles from end to end, meeting the beautiful Pinery Provincial Park on the exterior end. Some years ago this tiny town had a bit of a wild party reputation so much so there was even a reality TV show about it, The Grand Benders (3 seasons!). But since Cocos’, the bar a lot of this nightlife was centred around, closed the town has become a bit more calm and family-friendly. This post is a quick guide to spending a weekend in Grand Bend at the Kiwi Motel.

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The Vibe & Shared Spaces 

The check-in desk at the Kiwi serves as a storefront and a mini bar. Here you can purchase a selection of beverages and enjoy them either inside or on the cute outdoor terrace. The larger outdoor area is the backyard where guests and locals alike are invited to swim in the pool, play in the sun, have snacks, and sip on refreshing summer drinks.

As a community-friendly business, The Kiwi Motel host a series of events throughout the summer from live music to yoga and volleyball sessions, among other seasonal events. Additionally, the Kiwi team also has some fun bachelorette/party packages if escape with your besties is what this trip is about.

Inside the Suite 

The Kiwi Motel has a range of rooms from small studios (Weewee Kiwi) to King Suites (Mango and Papaya) and even larger units with seating areas and couches. We had the pleasure of staying in the Papaya Suite. This room has a window-facing desk, an indoor fireplace, various places to sit, a wardrobe, and a coffee/beverage station. On a cool May evening, the fireplace was a much-appreciated perk. 

The rooms are very cute with thoughtful decor touches, live plants and hygge-friendly mood lighting. It was a comfortable sleep in a pleasant environment with friendly and gracious hosts. I am quite looking forward to staying at the Kiwi again in the summer months.

What to do nearby

• Enjoy the glory of the summer day at the Grand Bend Beach. If any beach accessories were forgotten there are plenty of shops along Main Street selling various supplies.
• Go for a hike at the Pinery Provincial Park. Choose woodlands only or combine your shaded walk with a stop at the beach. The longest stroll would be under 2 hours.
• Grab a bite and a drink at The Tipsy Pelican. This new local favourite was introduced to us by the hotel team. It is a casual spot with a large menu and hearty portions. 
• Pop by the Dark Horse Estate Winery Inc. for a wine tasting on the way in or arrange a taxi and dine at their exquisite cellar restaurant, Danu. Make reservations, wear something nice, and enjoy their carefully crafted meals. Scroll down for images from the space and of the meal 😍.
• Take a drive out to Shale Ridge Estate Winery & Cidery, a beautiful property serving food and drink with a scenic view. Incredibly Instagramable this is a popular spot for celebrations. 
• Take a drive along the Bluewater Highway towards Bayfield and stop by local wineries and breweries along the way. This route includes Hessenland Inn & Schatz Winery, Bad Apple Brewing Company Ltd., and Cornerfield Wine Company.

Above: Interior at the The Tipsy Pelican, Grand Bend, Ontario
Below: Shale Ridge Estate Winery & Cidery

The Kiwi Motel
Starting at $139/night off season, $289/night summer
40 Main St E, Grand Bend, ON N0M 1T0
Book directly on stayatthekiwi.com or your favourite booking website: Expedia* | TripAdvisor* | Hotels.com*

In the gear bag: Fujifilm X-H2S with an XF50mmF2 R WR lens* and Fuji XF 23MM F2 R WR lens*. 

Danu Cellars at Dark Horse Estate Winery Inc., Grand Bend, Ontario