22 BEST Hotels & Places to Stay in Kaikoura 🛎️ [2024]

Where to Find the Best Hotels and Alternative Accommodations in Kaikoura

Kaikoura might be one of the most popular destinations on the South Island, but it still keeps its down-to-earth vibe in terms of the accommodation available, such as boutique lodges, B&Bs, motels and holiday parks. In short, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a choice of large hotels here. With that in mind, we’ve put together this list of accommodations in Kaikoura with the closest resemblance to hotel-style rooms, as well as a few alternatives worth considering. We’ve done the research for you on this list of the best hotels and places to stay in Kaikoura!

While you’re here, get inspired for activities with our list of the 20 Incredible Things to Do in Kaikoura, while planning the rest of your trip with The Complete Travel Guide to Kaikoura.

1. Kaikoura Boutique Hotel – The Best Hotel in Kaikoura

A stylish hotel with a range of colourful rooms and a popular champagne bar, Kaikoura Boutique Hotel is a popular choice for couples and friends. The bar is also where your continental breakfast is served each morning, as well as drinks in the evening. As for the rooms, they are a fine choice of king and twin set-ups with or without a waterfront view. Choose either the affordable “Courtyard Room” or upgrade to gorgeous views and your own balcony with one of the “Waterfront Rooms”. Either way, your room is tastefully-appointed with popping colours and kitted out with an ensuite and the usual hotel amenities.

Check the Kaikoura Boutique Hotel out:

2. Sudima Kaikoura – The Only Full-Service Hotel in Kaikoura

New on the hotel scene of Kaikoura, Sudima Kaikoura offers a contemporary stay with 4.5-star service. Whatever the reason for visiting Kaikoura, Sudima likely has the facilities and rooms to suit, from the local and international fare of the Hiku restaurant to the gym and conference room. All of the sleek rooms feature an Amazon Echo, WiFi, ensuite and individually controlled heating, while upgrades to wall-sized windows capturing the ocean views, as well as rooms with balconies, are available.

Check Sudima Kaikoura out:

21 BEST Hotels & Places to Stay in Kaikoura 🛎️ [2023]

3. Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments – Apartment Hotel in Kaikoura

If an apartment hotel is more your style, choose the hugely popular Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments. Located on the “Esplanade”, this collection of one- and two-bedroom apartments are metres away from the beach and within a short walk of the town centre in one direction and the Kaikoura Peninsula (with its seal colony) in the other. The apartments are modernly appointed and come with all of the self-catering essentials for a true home-away-from-home stay in Kaikoura.

Check Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments out:

20 BEST Hotels & Places to Stay in Kaikoura

4. Koura Bay Golf Resort – Accommodation with a Golf Course in Kaikoura

A Kaikoura hotel with a difference, Koura Bay Golf Resort features a private nine-hole golf course with panoramic views including the Kaikoura Peninsula and Kaikoura Mountain Ranges. After a round of golf, relax in The Dining Room serving breakfast and lunch every day or have a drink in the bar. Your room choices include “King Studio Room” with a minibar, plunger coffee, Sky TV and free WiFi, and the “Superior King Suite” with additions like underfloor heating and a private balcony.

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5. The Pier Hotel – Cheap Hotel in Kaikoura

Stay and dine in this historic hotel on the waterfront of Kaikoura. The Pier Hotel is a local favourite for its classic “Kiwi pub” ambience, while visitors can make use of the upstairs guest rooms. Most of the 10 guest rooms have access to a wraparound balcony where breakfast or a glass of wine can be enjoyed while watching the sunrise or dolphins on the horizon. Rooms are very simple with shared bathroom facilities keeping in with the old Kiwi hotel theme. See more recommendations like this in the 15 Best Budget Accommodations in Kaikoura.

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6. The White Morph – Heritage Collection – Kaikoura Accommodation on the Esplanade

Located on the Esplanade of Kaikoura, The White Morph offers unbeatable views of the ocean and the Kaikoura Mountains. The international hotel from the Heritage Collection is a 10-minute walk from town, yet feels a world away when you’re indulging in your “Premium Spa Studio’s” spa bath or listening to the waves gently lapping onto the shores from your king-sized bed. Rooms also have a kitchenette to make basic meals.

Check The White Morph – Heritage Collection out:

7. Kaikoura Quality Suites – Upscale Motel Units in Kaikoura

For the discerning traveller looking for an aparthotel in Kaikoura, check out Kaikoura Quality Suites. The “One-Bedroom Suite” is a great choice for families, sleeping up to five guests across a private king room and an open-plan lounge/kitchen with a super king bed. Corporate travellers or couples will experience space, comfort and style in the “Executive Studio” opening up onto a private courtyard or deck. Facilities in the suites include underfloor heating, free WiFi and a kitchenette.

Check Kaikoura Quality Suites out:

8. The Hamptons – Boutique Accommodation in Kaikoura

Sitting just across the road from the scenic Kaikoura coastline, the location of The Hamptons is just the start of what this luxury bed and breakfast has to offer. The boutique accommodation has a small selection of hotel-style double rooms opening out onto its own seaside deck or garden. The guest rooms are kitted out with quality amenities from the ensuite to the simple kitchenette while keeping things modern with a smart TV and free WiFi. Breakfast, made from locally-sourced ingredients, is served in your room.

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9. Dusky Lodge & Backpackers – Cheap Accommodation in Kaikoura

More budget accommodation awaits at the Dusky Lodge & Backpackers. This hostel is the largest backpacker hostel in Kaikoura with an incredible amount of space to relax after a day’s swimming with dolphins or whale watching. Make use of the multiple lounges, decking areas, kitchens, laundry and even an outdoor swimming pool. From super-budget dorm rooms to private ensuite rooms to family rooms, there’s something for everyone at Dusky Lodge. See more like this in the 5 Best Backpacker Hostels in Kaikoura.

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10. Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses – Luxury Accommodation in Kaikoura

Settle for nothing less than utter uniqueness and luxury at Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses. This contemporary luxury hotel on a deer breeding farm outside of Kaikoura not only boasts stunning countryside surroundings but is a work of art of its own. Of course, the one-bedroom and family “Tree Houses” are the most striking, thrust into the surrounding forest canopy with large windows, deep bathtubs and fireplaces to wrap it all up in a luxurious bow. That’s not to say that the suites and rooms of the main lodge are nothing to snuff at, all tastefully designed with nature in mind. And don’t even get us started on the locally-sourced fine dining cuisine… See more recommendations like this in our 14 Best Luxury Accommodations in Kaikoura.

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11. Te Mahuru Retreat – The Best B&B in Kaikoura

If you can get a booking at this hugely popular B&B, then don’t hesitate. Te Mahuru Retreat offers four single suites, one two-bedroom suite and a separate cottage on its stunning property soaking in the stellar scenery of the Kaikoura Mountains. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast including homemade bread, relax in the lounge with books, games and hot drinks, make use of the full kitchen and barbecue and indulge in some time soaking in the spa pool, borrowing some bikes or lazying in one of the hammocks or egg-chairs.

Check Te Mahuru Retreat out:

12. Mondello Kaikoura – Accommodation Close to Kaikoura Town Centre

There is certainly no lack of holiday apartments in Kaikoura with Mondello Kaikoura offering just another fantastic option for travellers who are seeking self-contained accommodation. There are 12 well-presented units in total, coming in various layouts from spa studios to two-bedroom suites. With a prime position on Beach Road, this boutique apartment complex is only a two-minute walk to the town centre, yet it boasts some stunning views of the nearby mountain ranges.

Check Mondello Kaikoura out:

13. Brook House B&B & Cottages – Affordable B&B in Kaikoura

Get the “local experience” at Brook House B&B & Cottages! The homely and affordable B&B accommodation offers well-appointed rooms in a single, twin and double bed layout with ensuites and a communal lounge, dining area and kitchen. The rate includes a continental breakfast of delights such as fresh fruit, yoghurt, cereals, bread and jams, as well as “Judy’s Fabulous Chocolate Muffins”. Laundry and WiFi are also available at no extra fee. Find the B&B near the New World supermarket, just a short drive from the town centre.

Check Brook House B&B & Cottages out:

14. Panorama Motel – The Best Motel in Kaikoura

Enjoy gorgeous sunsets from your one or two-bedroom unit at the Panorama Motel. Each unit opens up onto a patio or private balcony where you can take in the ocean views. Rooms are lined with timber and are traditionally decorated, featuring amenities like a kitchenette, Sky TV, WiFi and use of cots/highchairs and laundry if needed. Panorama Motel is a five-minute walk from the wharf and a selection of restaurants. Compare many more motels in the 20 BEST Motels in Kaikoura.

Check Panorama Motel out:

15. Glenburn Coastal Retreat – Holiday Home in Kaikoura for Couples

For the independent traveller seeking a luxurious home-away-from-home, choose one of the stunning cottages of Glenburn Coastal Retreat. Soak in the best of the Kaikoura scenery, with coastal views on one side and mountain views on the other, all absorbed by your floor-to-ceiling windows leading out to two private decks. Everything is here for an independent stay, from a very functional kitchen to a large ensuite with twin basins and a deep freestanding bathtub facing the mountains. Note that this accommodation is located a short drive from Kaikoura in Hapuku. For alternative couple-centric stays, check out the 12 Most Romantic Accommodations in Kaikoura.

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16. Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park – Holiday Park in Kaikoura with a Pool

One of the most popular holiday parks in Kaikoura is the Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park. Although they offer standard cabins as their cheapest accommodation, after camping sites, you can also choose from various self-contained units with all of the essentials at your fingertips. Additionally, guests at the holiday park have a heated swimming pool, private spa pools, free WiFi and basic kitchen, dining and laundry facilities to make use of! Find this holiday park on the outskirts of town near the Whale Watch Kaikoura office.

Check Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park out:

17. Hapuku Carriages – Unique Accommodation in Kaikoura

For something a little quirky and undoubtedly memorable, check out Hapuku Carriages. That’s right, as the name suggests, this accommodation is a B&B in a restored railway carriage. Experience this unique accommodation where you can enjoy your full-cooked breakfast in front of a warm log fire along with real cafe-style coffee. The main event, however, is the outdoor bath in your own private courtyard! Hapuku Carriages is located in Hapuku, 10 minutes drive north of Kaikoura. See more memorable stays around the South Island in the 10 Unique Accommodations in the South Island.

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18. Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park – Kaikoura Accommodation with Hot Pools

Enjoy fun and affordability with the holiday park facilities at the Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park. Keep things cheap and cheerful in the “Standard Cabins” and make use of the communal kitchen and bathroom. Alternatively, “One-Bedroom Deluxe Park Motels” provide the privacy and comforts of home like a full kitchen, Sky TV, DVD player and underfloor heating. There are studio motel units with cooking facilities and an ensuite also available. Oh, and did we mention the heated outdoor pool and hot pools to relax in?

Check Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park out:

19. Sails Motel – Kaikoura Motel on the Esplanade

Located on the Esplanade with sea views and an endearing garden setting, it’s no wonder Sails Motel is such a popular option. The boutique motel with a subtle nautical theme has single/couples units and family units to choose from, each with an ensuite bathroom, breakfast- and drink-making facilities, and both indoor and outdoor dining areas to enjoy your breakfast or afternoon drink. Book one of these well-priced rooms before they are all gone!

Check Sails Motel out:

Sails Motel on Booking.com

20. Mediterranean Motel Kaikoura – Cheap Pet-Friendly Accommodation in Kaikoura

Although the decor is looking a little drab, you can’t deny its warm, comfortable and very reasonably-priced stay at Mediterranean Motel Kaikoura. This motel is on the quiet outskirts of town, just a 30-minute walk/5-minute drive from town and a 15-minute walk from the beach. Enjoy the views of the Kaikoura Mountains from your ranch slider; double-glazed to keep the heat in and the noise out, while more notable amenities include smart TVs, electric blankets and heating. This accommodation is also pet-friendly on request.

Check Mediterranean Motel Kaikoura out:

21. Lobster Inn Motor Lodge – Family-Friendly Motel on Beach Road

The Lobster Inn Motor Lodge is well worth considering even if you’re more used to staying in hotels. The motor lodge’s main drawcards are the modern rooms, convenient location opposite the supermarket, and affordable rates. Rooms are equipped with a fridge, microwave, TV, DVDs and free WiFi and come in a variety of layouts. Studios are available in queen, king, twin and “Deluxe”, while the one and two-bedroom units are made for groups and families. Thanks to its excellent family-friendly facilities, we also list this one in the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Kaikoura.

Check Lobster Inn Motor Lodge out:

22. A1 Kaikoura Motel & Holiday Park – Cheap Accommodation Near Kaikoura Town Centre

Just a two-minute walk from the town centre and offering a wide range of accommodation, A1 Kaikoura Motel & Holiday Park is mainly worth considering for its location combined with price. If you’re not camping, choose from two varieties of cabin (bedding needs to be hired or you can bring your own) or one of the motel units with a bathroom, kitchen, bedding and a TV. Motel room types include studios up to three-bedroom units, making them a good option for larger groups. There is also a communal kitchen, bathroom facilities and a children’s playground.

Check A1 Kaikoura Motel & Holiday Park out:

More About Hotels in Kaikoura

That’s it for our list of the best hotels in Kaikoura, but it’s by no means the end of our travel tips! Get more stellar travel advice from the following guides:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Kaikoura.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura S.

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

Contact Laura About Our Team