Hotels in Kaikoura

Kaikoura: Where Mountains Embrace the Sea and Nature Dances

Nestled on the stunning South Island, Kaikoura is a captivating coastal gem renowned for its breathtaking landscapes where mountains meet the sea. This charming town offers unforgettable experiences, from whale watching and seal encounters to exploring the scenic Kaikoura Peninsula. Stroll along the picturesque esplanade or relax on Kaikoura Beach, where the rugged coastline creates a perfect backdrop. Immerse yourself in local culture at the Kaikoura Museum, or savor fresh seafood delicacies. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Kaikoura invites you to embrace its natural beauty and vibrant marine life, making it an unforgettable destination. For the best hotel rates in Kaikoura and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Kaikoura

Some of the best places to stay in Kaikoura are Hapuku and Goose Bay. Hapuku offers stunning coastal views and access to outdoor adventures, making it a great spot for travelers seeking nature. Goose Bay, with its serene beaches and wildlife, provides a peaceful retreat. Both locations have a range of accommodations, from cozy lodges to villas, ensuring a comfortable stay. For first-time visitors, Hapuku is ideal due to its proximity to Kaikoura's attractions and activities. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful part of New Zealand! Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Kaikoura:

1. HapukuOpens in a new window: Hapuku is a scenic destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with attractions like Kaikoura Beach for relaxation, Ohau Point Lookout for breathtaking views, and the Kaikoura District Museum for a cultural experience. For accommodations, consider Kaikoura Gateway Motor LodgeOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star motel that offers adventure sports and recreation activities on-site or nearby, ideal for an adventurous vacation. Also nearby is Kaikoura Boutique HotelOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel with direct beach access, perfect for those seeking a beach-themed getaway.
2. Goose BayOpens in a new window: Goose Bay is a haven for outdoor lovers, featuring Kaikoura Beach, the scenic Peninsula Walkway, and the Kaikoura Golf Club for sports enthusiasts. If you're looking for a place to stay, check out Kakatu RetreatOpens in a new window, a cozy 3.0-star Bed & Breakfast that combines natural experiences with wellness and has outdoor amenities like barbeque grills. Another option is Ribbonwood Country HouseOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast offering complimentary breakfast and various sports activities, ensuring a comfortable stay with plenty of entertainment options.

Things to do in Kaikoura for first time

Kaikoura offers an unforgettable blend of stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and lush forests, perfect for nature lovers. Enjoy activities like whale watching, dolphin encounters, and hiking along scenic trails. Families can explore the coastline by kayaking or relaxing at the beach, making it a great destination for all. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kaikoura:

• Relax at Kaikoura Beach: This stunning beach offers picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Peninsula. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, sunbathing, or enjoying a picnic while listening to the gentle waves. The beach is also known for its abundant marine life, providing opportunities for whale watching and spotting playful seals.
• Visit Ohau Point Lookout: A must-see for breathtaking panoramic views, Ohau Point Lookout is renowned for its incredible vistas of the coastline and the surrounding countryside. It's also famous for its seal colony, where you can see these adorable creatures basking on the rocks, making it a fantastic spot for photography and nature lovers.
• Hike the Seaward Kaikoura Range: For those who love adventure, the Seaward Kaikoura Range offers stunning hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. Experience the beauty of New Zealand's diverse landscape, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and breathtaking mountain scenery. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
• Explore Okiwi Bay: This hidden gem is perfect for a quiet getaway. Okiwi Bay boasts crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, kayaking, or fishing. The surrounding area provides a tranquil environment, making it a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of New Zealand's coastline.

5 tips to find a great Kaikoura hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Kaikoura is during May, July, and August, when hotel rates are at their lowest. For international travelers looking to save, it's advisable to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure better prices. To fully enjoy the area's stunning natural beauty, a stay of at least 1-2 days is recommended. Kaikoura offers great value for money with its breathtaking beaches and magnificent mountains, making it an ideal destination for those on a budget seeking adventure and relaxation.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Kaikoura, you're in luck! You could find great accommodation options at discounted prices by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. This area often features good availability, allowing you to snag a fantastic deal close to your travel date. To enhance your chances of scoring a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you'll be informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions. Don't let the opportunity to save slip away!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on hotel expenses in Kaikoura.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Kaikoura is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars or buses to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Kaikoura. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Kaikoura

Here are some popular dishes in Kaikoura, Canterbury, New Zealand:

• Crayfish: Known locally as “rock lobster,” crayfish is a must-try delicacy in Kaikoura. Often served simply grilled or steamed, it showcases the fresh, sweet flavors of the ocean. Dining on crayfish at a seaside restaurant while overlooking the stunning Kaikoura coastline enhances the experience, as you enjoy the catch of the day in a picturesque setting. It's common for locals to enjoy crayfish in a casual yet festive atmosphere, often accompanied by a crisp glass of New Zealand wine.
• Paua (Abalone): This unique shellfish is renowned for its vibrant blue-green color and is typically prepared in various ways, from being lightly battered and fried to being served raw in sushi. Paua dishes often highlight indigenous Maori flavors and can be found in local eateries. Sharing a paua dish with friends or family adds a communal aspect to the meal, celebrating local traditions and flavors.

Best time to go to Kaikoura

Kaikoura experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 46.4°F (8.0°C), while January is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 63.5°F (17.5°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Kaikoura, January to March are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, June, and August are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.