Hotels in Waikawa Bay

Discover the Hidden Harmony of Waikawa Bay: Where Mountains Embrace the Marina

Discover the serene beauty of Waikawa Bay, nestled near Picton in Marlborough, New Zealand. This picturesque destination is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, featuring a stunning marina that offers access to the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds. Explore lush hiking trails, indulge in water sports, or simply relax by the peaceful waterfront. With its enchanting islands and majestic mountains as a backdrop, Waikawa Bay is perfect for romantic getaways or off-the-beaten-path adventures. Experience the charm and tranquility of this hidden gem, where every moment invites exploration and relaxation.

Discover great hotels in Waikawa Bay

Waikawa Bay offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy holiday parks to comfortable hotels, catering to different budgets and preferences. Enjoy scenic views, easy access to outdoor activities, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect base for exploring the beautiful Marlborough region. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Waikawa Bay:

1. Beachside Sunnyvale MotelOpens in a new window: Beachside Sunnyvale Motel is a 3.5-star motel that caters to adventurous travelers seeking exciting experiences. With a range of adventure sports available onsite and nearby, including rowing and canoeing, kayaking, and hiking, this hotel provides a vibrant atmosphere for those looking to explore. The accommodation is designed for comfort, ensuring a cozy stay after a day filled with activities. Travelers appreciate the engaging recreational options and the overall adventurous spirit that Beachside Sunnyvale Motel embodies, making it a favorite for those who thrive on exploration and outdoor experiences.
2. Bay Vista Waterfront Motel PictonOpens in a new window: Bay Vista Waterfront Motel Picton is a charming 3.0-star motel that offers direct access to the beach, making it a perfect choice for leisure travelers who cherish sun-soaked getaways. With amenities like snorkeling and personal motor watercraft available onsite, this hotel emphasizes a fun-filled beach experience. Guests enjoy the refreshing coastal atmosphere, complemented by opportunities for swimming and fishing nearby. The inviting environment and beach-centric activities create a joyous retreat, gaining the admiration of travelers who appreciate a vibrant seaside escape.
3. Waikawa Bay Holiday ParkOpens in a new window: Waikawa Bay Holiday Park is a cozy 2.5-star holiday park, ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed and budget-friendly stay. With entertainment options like flat-screen televisions, this property creates a comfortable environment to unwind. Guests are treated to pleasant views of the surrounding suburbs and sea, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere. The inviting ambiance and essential amenities make Waikawa Bay Holiday Park a preferred choice for those seeking simplicity and ease during their travels, resonating well with visitors who appreciate a laid-back retreat.

Top locations to stay in Waikawa Bay

Some of the best areas to stay near are Waikawa Marina, Picton Foreshore, and Edwin Fox. Waikawa Marina offers a relaxing atmosphere with boating and birdwatching opportunities, while Picton Foreshore features scenic views and friendly locals. Edwin Fox showcases maritime history and charm. For first-time visitors, staying near Picton Foreshore is ideal due to its vibrant community and accessibility.

1. Near Waikawa MarinaOpens in a new window: Staying near Waikawa Marina puts you right in the heart of a vibrant boating community. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, it's perfect for relaxing by the water, enjoying birdwatching, and exploring the nearby islands. With a friendly vibe and a variety of camping options, it’s a great base for outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind.
2. Near Picton ForeshoreOpens in a new window: The Picton Foreshore is a fantastic spot for those who love picturesque views and coastal strolls. This area features a beautiful waterfront, making it an inviting place to relax and soak in the scenery. You can enjoy activities like boating and discovering local marine life, all while being surrounded by friendly locals and a budget-friendly atmosphere.
3. Near Edwin FoxOpens in a new window: Staying close to Edwin Fox allows you to explore the rich maritime history of the region. This iconic 19th-century ship offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a must-see for history buffs. The surrounding area is also ideal for those who enjoy a peaceful, relaxing environment, with options for camping and easy access to stunning mountain views.

Things to do near Waikawa Bay

Waikawa Bay enchants visitors with its stunning marina, peaceful beaches, and rugged mountains. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride, camp under the stars, or set out on the water for boating and birdwatching. With lush forests and tranquil parks, this destination invites exploration and relaxation in nature's embrace.

• Waikawa MarinaOpens in a new window – Start your adventure at Waikawa Marina, where you can admire an array of boats and yachts bobbing gently on the water. This vibrant hub is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you might even catch some local fishermen preparing for their day out at sea. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.
• Picton ForeshoreOpens in a new window – Head over to Picton Foreshore, a lovely stretch of waterfront that invites you to relax and soak in the stunning views of the harbor. Enjoy a picnic on the grass, watch the ferries come and go, or simply take a walk along the pathway lined with beautiful gardens. It’s a wonderful spot for families and anyone looking to unwind by the water.
• Edwin FoxOpens in a new window – Discover the history of the Edwin Fox, a historic ship that has seen over 120 years of maritime history. Guided tours reveal fascinating stories about its voyages, and you can explore the exhibits that bring this remarkable vessel's past to life. It’s a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the significance of seafaring in New Zealand.
• LookoutOpens in a new window – For breathtaking views, make your way to the Lookout. Climb up to this vantage point and be rewarded with panoramic sights of the stunning landscape surrounding Waikawa Bay. It’s an excellent spot for photography, so don’t forget your camera. Enjoy the tranquility as you take in the sweeping vistas of mountains and the sparkling sea.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Waikawa Bay

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Waikawa Bay is between June and August, when hotel prices are lower. For those looking to experience the area’s key landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty, a stay of at least 1 to 2 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy budget-friendly activities such as exploring the marina, relaxing by the mountains, and boating around the picturesque islands. Birdwatching and camping are also great value for money options, and you'll likely encounter friendly locals who enhance the welcoming atmosphere of this charming destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Waikawa Bay, begin by visiting the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. It’s also wise to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions that could help you save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so if rooms become available or prices drop, you could be among the first to book a last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on factors like the hotel’s location, star rating, and the season, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a Waikawa Bay hotel. If you're in search of something special, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans toward the higher end, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates to enhance your chances of getting a great deal.
4. Consider your location: Choosing accommodations near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but they usually tend to be more expensive. To find better rates, consider staying in neighborhoods that are a bit farther away, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit. You might also look into independent hotels located further out, as they can offer a more genuine and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership for free and start planning your next getaway to Waikawa Bay! Enjoy exclusive discounts on over 100,000 hotels around the globe. As a member, you can easily advance through membership tiers, unlocking fantastic perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access locations. Don’t miss out on these incredible benefits—sign up today and make your travel experience even better!

Best time to go to Waikawa Bay

Waikawa Bay has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. January, February, and December are the peak travel months in Waikawa Bay, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. On the other hand, June, August, and September tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.