10 Most Romantic Accommodations in the Bay of Islands 💕 [2024]

Where to Find Couples’ or Honeymoon Accommodation in the Bay of Islands

A special occasion or simply a romantic getaway always calls for a special place to stay, especially in the Bay of Islands. To not stay in a romantic retreat with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean would almost be a crime! But don’t worry, we’ll help you set the right tone for your base in either Paihia, Kerikeri, Russell or nearby with this list of the most romantic accommodations in the Bay of Islands.

For more tips, just head to The Romantic Getaway & Honeymoon Guide to the Bay of Islands or 10 Romantic Activities in the Bay of Islands for Couples.

1. Magic Cottages at Takou River (Kerikeri)

An eco-friendly escape on the banks of the Takou River, Magic Cottages at Takou River offers unique stays for couples. Indulge in the ultimate outdoor experience in the glamping tent or enjoy secluded riverside romance in the “Magic Cottage” with an outdoor claw bathtub. Your hosts can organise a number of romance packages to suit the occasion, from babymoons to weddings. See more stays like this in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in the Bay of Islands.

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Magic Cottages at Takou River on Booking.com

10 Best Romantic Accommodation in the Bay of Islands

2. Crab Cove (Mahinepua)

If only all caves could look this good! That’s right, Crab Cove is a private holiday home for two with a cave-like design nestled into a hillside overlooking the bay. Your quarters has a double shower, sauna, kitchen and a private beach where snorkelling gear and kayaks are provided. Enjoy meals on the outdoor balcony while watching the sunset from this stunning location in Mahinepua. For more holiday homes worth considering, check out the 15 Best Holiday Homes & Apartments in the Bay of Islands.

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3. Bay of Islands Beachhouses (Paihia)

The Bay of Islands Beachhouses at Sullivans Beach might be larger than what most couples need, but they provide a gorgeous retreat without being too far from Paihia town. Every apartment has commanding views where dolphins are often seen jumping in the bay, while you’re also completely surrounded by native bush teeming with birdsong. The apartments have access to the beach and facilities including a kitchen, at least one separate bedroom, a lounge and a private deck/balcony.

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4. Eagles Nest (Russell)

A popular wedding venue thanks to its breathtaking vistas over the Bay of Islands, the Eagles Nest luxury accommodation is a no-brainer for couples celebrating a special occasion. Stay in one of five ultra-modern villas where you can spend days lounging by your private heated infinity pools and indulging in gourmet cuisine put together by your personal chef. Wellness is also a core part of the Eagles Nest stay, as a personal trainer and spa therapists are also on hand. Otherwise, simply relax and enjoy this beautiful piece of paradise together.

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5. Allegra House (Paihia)

Another utterly romantic bed and breakfast option in Paihia is Allegra House. Set in gorgeous gardens where the call of native birds is wonderful to wake up to, there are three bed and breakfast rooms with hotel-like facilities and a private balcony each. Breakfast is included in the rate, which includes an indulgent array of fresh fruits, cereals, yoghurts, homemade bread, croissants, free-range eggs, manuka honey, as well as a selection of cold meat and cheeses. Needless to say, this accommodation easily makes it into our 12 Most Romantic Accommodations in Paihia.

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6. Treghan Luxury Lodge (Kerikeri)

Stay in Kerikeri where this boutique accommodation offers three self-contained cottages within walking distance of the town. Nestled in gardens, Treghan Luxury Lodge is all about tranquillity and privacy. Spruce up your own meals in the modern and spacious kitchens, while breakfast is sorted with organic provisions provided. For more self-catering options, head to the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in the Bay of Islands.

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7. Bellrock Lodge (Russell)

A cute lodge on the hillside of Russell, Bellrock Lodge is a characterful retreat for couples. There are only four spacious units in this boutique accommodation, all with French doors leading to commanding views over the bay and Russell town. Each unit has a fully-equipped kitchenette for preparing your own breakfast, which you can enjoy in the attractive lounge and dining area upstairs. We also feature this one in the 10 Best Boutique Accommodations in the Bay of Islands.

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8. Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel (Paihia)

For couples seeking a bit of pampering, consider Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel. The boutique resort is the ideal place to enjoy some downtime, with couples’ spa treatments available at La Spa Naturale and exquisite dining at the on-site restaurant and bar. The five-star studios are the best choice for couples with a romantic interior of butter-creams and French oak timbers. Each room also features convenient kitchenettes, an ensuite, bathrobes and slippers with optional extras like a spa bath and a balcony with an electronic louvre system. Choose from more hotels in the area from our 10 Best Hotels in the Bay of Islands.

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9. The Waterfront Suites – Heritage Collection (Paihia)

Combine luxury with a convenient location at The Waterfront Suites in Paihia. These luxury suites by the Heritage Collection boast stylishly-appointed rooms that suit a romantic retreat. Suites feature a full kitchen, separate lounge with Sky TV, and a private patio or balcony with some rooms boasting ocean views. What’s more, the suites are in a central waterfront location in Paihia, so going out for a romantic dinner will be a breeze. See more recommendations like this in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Paihia.

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10. Baywaterviews (Paihia)

For a more down-to-earth stay, this bed and breakfast overlooking the Waitangi River is definitely worth considering. There are only three rooms in this boutique accommodation, each with a king bed, ensuite, basic kitchenette, your own deck with outdoor furniture and the option for a private spa pool with sea views. Breakfast is served each morning on your deck, with the choice of either continental or cooked options like French toast.

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More Romantic Accommodations in the Bay of Islands for Couples

That’s it for our list of the best romantic accommodations in the Bay of Islands. For more stays or things to do for couples, check out the following:

Finally, if there’s anything about planning a trip to the Bay of Islands that we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Romantic Getaway & Honeymoon Guide to the Bay of Islands.

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.

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