Waikawa Hotels

Top reasons to visit Waikawa

• Stunning Scenery: Waikawa boasts breathtaking landscapes, including beautiful bays and tranquil harbour views, perfect for nature lovers.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in thrilling activities like kayaking and boating, ensuring an adventurous experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Picturesque Waikawa Bay: Relax by the water at Waikawa Bay, an ideal spot for a peaceful day out.
• Charming Marina: Explore Waikawa Marina for a romantic stroll or a family outing, set against stunning coastal backdrops.
• Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from pet-friendly hotels to family guesthouses, catering to all travellers.

Find great hotels in and around Waikawa

Waikawa offers a charming selection of accommodations, perfect for every type of traveller. From pet-friendly hotels to family-friendly guesthouses, you'll find a variety of options catering to your needs. Whether you're seeking beachfront views or a quiet getaway, the area boasts some of the best hotels with excellent reviews. Explore the delightful Waikawa Bay and enjoy a memorable vacation experience in this picturesque Southland destination.

• Curio Bay Salt House Motel: Embrace a quintessential beach getaway at Curio Bay Salt House Motel, a charming 3-star guesthouse located only 4.8km from Waikawa. This property is ideal for those yearning for a seaside escape, offering direct access to the stunning beach. Guests can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. The motel features comfortable accommodations that cater to beach lovers, ensuring a delightful stay while you soak in the sun and surf.
• Waikawa House: A welcoming 3.5-star guesthouse nestled in the heart of Waikawa, Waikawa House is perfect for families and pet owners seeking a memorable vacation experience. With a focus on family-friendly amenities, the property provides special features for children, including dinnerware and games, ensuring that younger guests are entertained. Additionally, pets are warmly welcomed, with a pet policy that includes free accommodation for your furry friends. This homey atmosphere makes Waikawa House a delightful choice for a family getaway.
• Curio Bay Boutique Accommodation: Located 4.8km from Waikawa, Curio Bay Boutique Accommodation offers a more upscale hotel experience with a touch of elegance. Guests can enjoy high-speed WiFi in their rooms, ensuring connectivity during their stay. The property also features self-parking facilities, allowing for hassle-free exploration of the beautiful surrounding area. With its boutique charm and modern amenities, this accommodation is perfect for travellers seeking a refined experience while still being close to nature.

Where to stay near Waikawa

Waikawa, a charming suburb in Southland, New Zealand, offers a delightful escape for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers. Explore the stunning views at Waikawa Harbour and enjoy a tranquil day at Waikawa Bay. Don't miss a visit to the picturesque Waikawa Marina, perfect for a romantic stroll or a family outing. With its serene landscapes and inviting atmosphere, Waikawa promises a memorable vacation experience.

• Curio Bay: Curio Bay is a picturesque suburb located 4.8km from Waikawa, renowned for its stunning natural beauty. This coastal gem is particularly popular from January to February and November when outdoor enthusiasts flock to its sandy beaches and scenic bays. Visitors can indulge in activities such as swimming, surfing, and exploring the unique fossilised forest, which offers a glimpse into the region's prehistoric past. The charming local beach and stunning views of the bay make it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.
• The Catlins: Situated 19.3km from Waikawa, The Catlins is a breathtaking region that captivates travellers with its rugged coastline and lush landscapes. Peak visitor numbers occur between January and March, drawn by outdoor adventures, scenic walks, and romantic hideaways. The area boasts remarkable attractions including serene lakes, historic lighthouses, and stunning coastal monuments. Whether you’re hiking through the dense forests or enjoying a quiet picnic by the water, The Catlins offers a diverse range of experiences for all nature lovers.
• Progress Valley: Just 4.8km away from Waikawa, Progress Valley is a charming suburb that invites visitors to explore its scenic surroundings. Like its neighbours, it experiences a seasonal influx of tourists, particularly from January to February and November. The area is perfect for outdoor activities, with picturesque lakes and monuments, including a historic lighthouse, waiting to be discovered. Progress Valley is not only a tranquil escape but also a romantic destination, ideal for couples seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature’s splendour.

Things to do in Waikawa

Waikawa, nestled in Southland, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers. Visitors can enjoy thrilling kayak and boat tours that showcase the stunning scenery. The area offers various outdoor activities, ensuring adventure at every turn. For those seeking a vibrant nightlife experience, local venues provide entertainment options, while sailing opportunities allow for a unique perspective of the picturesque coastline. Waikawa promises an unforgettable holiday filled with natural beauty and engaging activities.

Shopping

In Waikawa, you can enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Invercargill City Centre, where you'll find various retail outlets, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for browsing and shopping.

Recreation

Waikawa boasts tranquil wellness retreats such as the soothing spa treatments at the nearby coastal resorts, offering massages and rejuvenating therapies. For recreation, explore the beautiful walking tracks along the coastline, or indulge in kayaking adventures, immersing yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Southland.

Adventure

In Waikawa, explore the stunning coastline with kayaking adventures, where you can paddle alongside dolphins and seals. Experience the thrill of fishing charters, targeting local species while enjoying breathtaking views of the Fiordland National Park.

Nightlife

In Waikawa, the atmosphere is laid-back yet vibrant, with venues like the Waikawa Boating Club offering social gatherings and live music. Nearby, the local pubs create a friendly environment for mingling, while scenic views along the waterfront enhance the evening experience.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waikawa

To save money during your visit to Waikawa, consider travelling in May or August to September, when accommodation prices tend to be lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance often yields the best rates, while last-minute deals can be found on Expedia. Fridays are typically the cheapest nights to stay, so plan accordingly. Utilise Expedia’s tools to filter for budget-friendly options and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Don’t forget to explore free local activities to further stretch your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Waikawa are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Waikawa about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Waikawa is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Waikawa is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Waikawa with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Waikawa

Waikawa is an idyllic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, offering stunning scenery and various attractions such as waterfalls and beautiful bays. Ideal for adventure seekers and those seeking a romantic getaway, visitors can explore the Waikawa Marina and nearby tourist spots. Don't miss the picturesque Waikawa Bay, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. With so much to see and do, Waikawa promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• Porpoise Bay Beach: Experience the laid-back beach vibes at Porpoise Bay Beach, located just 1.6km from Waikawa. Relax on the soft sands, swim in the clear waters, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, all while soaking in the stunning coastal scenery.
• Curio Bay Petrified Forest: A 4.8km journey from Waikawa leads you to the Curio Bay Petrified Forest, where you can explore fascinating outdoor landscapes. Marvel at the ancient fossilised trees and enjoy breathtaking views of the bay, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
• McLean Falls: Venture 11.6kms from Waikawa to McLean Falls, where romance meets adventure. Hike through lush greenery to witness the dramatic waterfall cascading into a tranquil pool, providing an ideal backdrop for a memorable day amidst nature.

Best time to go to Waikawa

The best time to visit Waikawa is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
July	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
August	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
September	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
November	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Waikawa

Waikawa, Southland can be conveniently accessed via two major airports. Invercargill Airport (IVC) is approximately 66.0km away, with nearby accommodation options such as the 4.5-star Shelby Motor Lodge and the 4-star Langlands Hotel, both situated 3.2km and 1.6km away respectively. Additionally, Admiral Court Motel & Apartments, a 4-star property, is also 3.2km distant from the airport. Stewart Island Airport (SZS-Ryans Creek) is about 53.2km from Waikawa, with excellent hotels like the 4.5-star Stewart Island Lodge and the 3-star Bay Motel, each a mile from the airport. Transportation services from these hotels facilitate easy access to both airports.