Where to Find Boutique Lodges and B&Bs in Takaka and Golden Bay
A destination as tranquil and laidback as Takaka and Golden Bay deserves a peaceful accommodation to match. Luckily, all of Golden Bay’s accommodations can be classed as “boutique”, from its holiday parks to its lodges. Nevertheless, if you’re looking for something a little smaller than the rest or authentic bed and breakfast experiences with true local hospitality, we’ve handpicked them for you in this list of boutique accommodations and B&Bs in Takaka and Golden Bay.
For more travel advice, head to The Complete Guide to Takaka and plan your itinerary with the 20 Best Things to Do in Golden Bay.
1. Twin Waters Lodge – Boutique Accommodation in Collingwood
Located on a finger of land between a wildlife estuary and the Tasman Sea, Twin Waters Lodge allows you to stay in the heart of coastal nature close to Farewell Spit and Wharariki Beach. There are just four rooms to choose from, each with a fun cultural theme. They all boast sliding doors opening up onto a private deck with estuary views and access to the extensive vegetable gardens. The lodge has a guest kitchen with a dishwasher for self-catering, while breakfast supplies are also included in the rate.
Check Twin Waters Lodge out:
2. The Bay Lodge – Luxury Boutique Lodge in Pohara
Elevated on a hill amongst the birdsong, The Bay Lodge offers a romantic escape overlooking Pohara Beach. This stylishly modern lodge with spacious suites boasts high-quality king beds, lounge and dining furniture, an ensuite and a kitchenette. When you’re not relaxing on your private deck with expansive ocean views, warm up in the outdoor spa pool or cool down in the outdoor swimming pool amidst stunning water gardens. See more stays like this in the 6 Best Luxury Accommodations in Takaka & Golden Bay.
Check The Bay Lodge out:
3. Waitapu Springs B&B – Affordable Spa Accommodation in Takaka
For travellers on a budget who still want the boutique experience, Waitapu Springs B&B is an affordable B&B with an on-site spa. Tranquillity is key to your stay here with just a single, double, double/twin room or a cosy sleepout available. Some rooms have shared bathroom facilities while others have ensuite bathrooms. Breakfast is included in your stay, which is a generous offering of homemade bread, eggs, fruit cereal, homemade marmalade, a selection of cheese and ham, and much more. Guests also get complimentary use of the spa facilities, such as a Scandinavian wood-fire sauna, cedar hot tubs, indoor pool and more. See more accommodations like this in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Takaka.
Check Waitapu Springs B&B out:
4. Ratanui Lodge – Boutique Lodge in Golden Bay (Pohara)
Relax in one of the eight elegantly-appointed suites of the Ratanui Lodge at Pohara Beach. Guests at Ratanui Lodge have the option of double or twin guest suites, which include an ensuite and classical decor with luxurious down bedding and an outdoor seating area. On-site is also a popular yet intimate restaurant where tapas and three-course set menus are available to indulge in.
Check Ratanui Lodge out:
5. Woolshed Bed & Breakfast – B&B Farm Stay at Tata Beach
Another fantastic B&B accommodation in Golden Bay, Woolshed Bed & Breakfast is a unique stay in a characterful 1950s woolshed near Tata Beach. The renovated woolshed features queen rooms which are tastefully decorated in what we can only describe as “farmyard chic”, each with a double-door private entrance. In the lounge, enjoy a book from the attractive and extensive library, while breakfast is served in the kitchen and dining area. Little extras guests are welcome to include free bike hire, kayak hire and laundry.
Check Woolshed Bed & Breakfast out:
6. Golden Caves Bed and Breakfast – B&B with an Excellent Breakfast Near Takaka
Another excellent bed and breakfast that will make each start to your day in Golden Bay utterly delicious, the Golden Caves Bed and Breakfast is well worth considering. Each day brings and new and exciting breakfast at this farm property, whether it’s Kiwi bacon and free-range eggs, poached eggs, fluffy American pancakes, homemade stilton or camembert, or something else. While we could talk about the breakfast all day, you might also want to know about the rooms which consist of two light-filled queen rooms with ensuite bathrooms, alpaca duvets and one with a private deck.
Check Golden Caves Bed and Breakfast out:
- Golden Caves Bed and Breakfast on Booking.com
- Golden Caves Bed and Breakfast on Trip.com
- Golden Caves Bed and Breakfast on Expedia
7. Collingwood Park Motel – Boutique Motel in Collingwood
Golden Bay is home to many boutique motels, which you can check out in the 10 Best Motels in Takaka. One of the highlights, however, is the Collingwood Park Motel on the borders of the Aorere Estuary in Collingwood. The town centre is a couple of minutes’ walk from the small selection of modern studios, most with water or estuary views. Choose from three different grades of studios, from a split-level studio to a waterfront studio, or enjoy more space with three bedrooms in the apartment. The rooms themselves are “cosy” but are well kitted with modern decor and fixings, which include a kitchenette.
Check Collingwood Park Motel out:
- Collingwood Park Motel on Booking.com
- Collingwood Park Motel on Trip.com
- Collingwood Park Motel on Expedia
8. Patrons Rock Beach Villas – Self-Contained Boutique Accommodation in Golden Bay
Nestled in flower gardens with a stream running through the property, Patons Rock Beach Villas is a boutique accommodation with just four two-bedroom holiday villas. Each villa accommodates couples up to groups of four and features breathtaking garden views from every window. You’ll have access to a well-equipped kitchen and a fully tiled bathroom with a walk-in shower. What’s more, the villas are a mere 5 minutes’ walk from Patons Rock Beach and 10 minutes’ drive from Takaka. For more self-contained options, head to the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Takaka & Golden Bay.
Check Patons Rock Beach Villas out:
9. Shady Rest Bed & Breakfast – Popular B&B in Takaka
Stay in the heart of the bohemian town with complementing character and charm at the Shady Rest Bed & Breakfast. Each room of this boutique accommodation has an ensuite or private external bathroom and one with a luxury spa bath. Additional beds can be added to rooms if you’re travelling a tribe. Either way, guests can mingle with fellow travellers in the communal kitchen or have a picnic by the riverside with meals prepared on the barbecue or pizza oven. There’s also a lounge with a cosy fire roaring in winter. Your stay also includes a generous continental breakfast each morning. For more stays where kids can join, check out the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Takaka & Golden Bay.
Check Shady Rest Bed & Breakfast out:
- Shady Rest Bed & Breakfast on Booking.com
- Shady Rest Bed & Breakfast on Trip.com
- Shady Rest Bed & Breakfast on Expedia
10. Golden Bay Hideaway – Unique Boutique Accommodation in Takaka
Try something unique at the Golden Bay Hideaway. Boasting five creative accommodation experiences nestled in a bush setting overlooking Wainui Bay, this retreat offers eco-conscious luxury in Golden Bay. Soak in the breathtaking vistas from your outside bathtub outside the “Kiwi Greenie” or “Little Greenie” – low-energy passive solar design homes – or from the lovingly restored “House Truck” that revels in pioneer spirit. There’s also a tiny house and an elevated holiday home with options to suit any traveller seeking a bit of luxury.
Check Golden Bay Hideaway out:
11. Pukeko Retreat – Cheap B&B in Takaka
Providing double and twin rooms in a spacious family home, Pukeko Retreat is an affordable boutique B&B just outside of Takaka. Guest rooms are spacious and have shared bathroom facilities, as well as access to a large dining room, a full kitchen and a lounge. Guests are welcome to use the laundry facilities or make use of the barbecue within the gorgeous gardens. Continental breakfast and free WiFi is also included in your stay.
12. [CLOSED] Totara Studios
An ultra-boutique motel on the way into Takaka, Totara Studios features just three self-contained studios. Enjoy spacious gardens surrounded by mature totara trees (a native tree), as well as access to an undercover swimming pool in summer. Cook meals using the full kitchen where you can dine on your private deck or on your elegant indoor dining furniture. Totara Studios is suitable for solo travellers, couples and groups of up to three.
More About Boutique Accommodations and B&Bs in Takaka and Golden Bay
That’s it for our list of the best boutique accommodations and B&Bs in Takaka and Golden Bay. Don’t miss any of the highlights in Golden Bay by having a look at the following guides:
- 10 Best Things to Do in Takaka
- 19 Epic Natural Attractions in Golden Bay
- The Food Guide to Takaka: Places to Eat & Food Tours
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Guide to Takaka.
Author
Laura S.
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in New Zealand over 10 years ago and with a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to travel New Zealand. She knows Aotearoa inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience New Zealand’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides and is the co-host of NZ Pocket Guide’s live New Zealand travel Q&As on YouTube.