Kaikōura’s best accommodation: Eight of the finest spots to rest your head in this coastal region

The Kaikōura coastline is dotted with camping grounds, and there really is nothing more kiwi than pitching a tent for a weekend. On top of being possibly the most economical accommodation style in town, camping grounds are often also located in stunning spots. Peketa Beach Holiday Park, five minutes south of town, is one such camping ground. Kaikōura’s only beachfront camping ground, you can’t get much closer to the sand and surf than this. Peketa is known for clean facilities, friendly vibes and plenty of activities to keep the kids busy – BMX track, flying fox, playground, mini golf, oh and the beach right there. Your K9 friend is welcome here, too, as long as they stay on the lead. 

Another great camping ground, Kaikōura Top10 Holiday Park, is located right in the centre of town. With stunning views of the mountains and an easy walking distance to the main street, this park is a popular base for people wanting to explore all that this coastal town has to offer. Complete with a swimming pool, spa and sauna, adventure playground, tv room and more, there’s plenty to keep the entire family happy. Pets are welcome at Kaikōura Top10 with prior arrangements.

A unique luxury lodge, Hapuku offers an accommodation option like no other. Tucked snuggly between the Kaikōura mountain ranges and the coastline, this is a destination in itself. Stay in a treehouse room and experience the uninterrupted vistas at an altitude, soak in the heated mineral pool, dine at the wonderful in-house restaurant and access all that Kaikōura has to offer with a quick drive to town.

If regular camping doesn’t quite have the appeal you’re after, why not give glamping a go? Camp Kekerengu is no ordinary camping ground. Set on a working sheep and beef farm forty minutes north of town and overlooking the majestic Kaikōura Coast, you’ll feel a world away from it all here. The large tents are beautifully set up for couples and families in mind, each with a fireplace to keep you cosy no matter the weather. A separate camp kitchen has all you need to cook up a feast, just grab your own food supplies en route and settle in for a good time.

After a b&b style stay right in town? Look no further than Kaikōura Boutique Hotel. Situated on the waterfront with a short stroll to town, this petite hotel offers personable accommodation with an in-house cafe and wine bar, plus a lovely courtyard garden. The beautifully renovated historic building encompasses a unique atmosphere, the perfect place to wind down after a busy day exploring the region.

Positioned directly on the shoreline with oceanviews aplenty, Sudima Kaikōura is your affordable luxury option. A few steps away from Mayfair Arts & Culture Centre and a quick walk to the town’s retail centre, Sudima offers a convenient and stunning spot to call your temporary home while in town. With rooms to suit all needs, facilities from in-house gym and pool to specials for families, plus its own fabulous street level restaurant Hiku, the Kaikōura hotel experience couldn’t get much better than this.

A rustic luxury hilltop accommodation overlooking the ocean, Matai Peak Lodge is a secluded hideaway forty minutes south of Kaikōura. This is as exclusive as it gets, with sole occupancy of the lovingly and respectfully restored ex-shepherd’s hut in a location well away from it all. Matai Peak is the ideal spot for watching the sun rise over the pacific ocean and stargazing at night, with no light pollution in sight.

Located just below the lookout point on the Kaikōura Peninsula, Clifftop Cabins offer unparalleled panoramic views oh-so-close to town. The beautifully designed and built cabins are nestled in a dramatic setting right at the cliff’s edge and have all the comforts of home-away-from-home in a breathtaking location. Best yet, you can leave the car behind and walk down the hill for a dip in the ocean or stroll all the way to the town centre.

Photo by: Supplied

If you ever wanted to stay right next door to one of the most picturesque surf beaches in New Zealand, this rustic cottage has your name on it. Located in Mangamaunu, The Pohutukawa Cottage offers over-the-railway-line access to the ocean playground loved by locals and visitors alike. Retro feels with modern conveniences, this is the kind of Kiwi bach experience that is hard to beat.