The Best Accommodation for Couples in Akaroa
Whether you’re visiting the French-flavoured town of Akaroa for a romantic retreat, as part of your honeymoon itinerary around the country, or some other reason, you’ll find some of the most endearing accommodation options in Akaroa and across the Banks Peninsula in our carefully-curated list. Paired with the advice we give in The Honeymoon Guide to Akaroa, this list of the most romantic accommodation in Akaroa will ensure the right tone is set for a couples’ escape to the bays…
1. French Bay House
Vintage charm and modern living come together at this B&B accommodation close to the town centre of Akaroa. Set among vibrant flower gardens, French Bay House is effortlessly romantic with just four fresh and tastefully-decorated guest rooms ensuring tranquillity for your stay. Each morning is a treat of cooked or continental breakfast, while your hosts can prepare you a picnic basket with local cheeses and even binoculars for wildlife viewing. Bikes are also available for guests to get around.
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2. Beaufort House
This historical home conveniently located on the outskirts of town, Beaufort House basks in heritage ambience complemented by tasteful French antique furniture. There are five gorgeous rooms to choose from at this boutique B&B, each of which is wrapped in luxury from Egyptian cotton sheets to the bone china tea-making accessories complete with chocolates and cookies. Couples can enjoy relaxing in backyard vineyard while sipping on wines with grapes grown on-site. A highlight, of course, is a breakfast of freshly-baked croissants, seasonal cooked breakfasts and much more. See more like this in the 5 Best Luxury Accommodation in Akaroa.
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3. Annandale Coastal Farm Escape & Luxury Villa Collection
This secluded coastal farm is well worth booking for a special occasion. There are five unique five-star villas to choose from at the Annandale Coastal Farm Escape. Some of our favourites include the ultra-modern architecture of “Seascape” built into the hills of a remote bay with multi-floor windows to see it all, as well as the historical “Shepherd’s Cottage” offering charming isolation with endless farm and ocean views. Part of the experience is the farm-to-table cuisine which you can enjoy through a private in-villa chef or meals delivered straight to your door.
Check Annandale Coastal Farm Escape & Luxury Villa Collection out:
- Annandale Coastal Farm Escape on Booking.com
- Annandale Coastal Farm Escape on Trip.com
- Annandale Coastal Farm Escape on Expedia
4. Mumfords
Perched on a hillside overlooking the bays, Mumfords is an idyllic couples’ retreat. The romantic or honeymoon accommodation is just a short drive from Akaroa, set in 20 acres of gardens, native bush and inner-harbour coastline. The interior is stylishly decorated with a farm cottage feel, from its open-plan kitchen, dining and living area to the bedroom, opening out through the French doors onto an extensive elevated deck.
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5. Mt Vernon Lodge
Scattered among scenic gardens and woodland of Mt Vernon are the chalets, cabins and lodge accommodation of Mt Vernon Lodge. Out of the array of accommodation types, the most romantic is the Maison Cottage, a rustically detailed cottage-for-two hidden among the trees. The self-contained accommodation has everything you need for a quiet night in. Alternatively, the Harbour View cottage offers tremendous sea views from its deck, while Pheasant Cottage is elevated amongst an orchard.
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6. Blythcliffe
Yes, there are more endearing options for romantic B&Bs in Akaroa where Blythcliffe is a top contender! Combined with convenience and eco-living, Blycliffe is set close to the town centre and boasts and low-to-zero waste policy. That way, you can enjoy a feel-good experience while basking in the historical charm of its heritage building. There are two guest rooms and one self-contained converted stable. Couples can spend their time here playing croquet or petanque, walking hand-in-hand through the forest grounds and feeding the eels in the Balguerie Stream.
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7. Onuku Farm Hostel
For couples on a budget, take a look at some of the romantic options provided by the Onuku Farm Hostel. Watch the stars through the transparent roof of the “Kiwi Stargazer” cabins or stay in the secluded Tui Hut with panoramic sea and hill views. There are shared bathroom and kitchen facilities at this backpacker accommodation. In-house activities include a dolphin swimming tour, kayak rental and full-day to multi-day hiking trails. Note that the hostel is only open between October and April. See more accommodation like this in the 5 Best Budget Accommodation in Akaroa.
Check Onuku Farm Hostel out:
- Onuku Farm Hostel on Booking.com
- Kiwi Stargazer cabin on Airbnb – Don’t forget your FREE NZ$45 of Airbnb credit on us!
8. Akaroa Village Inn
Stay in the heart of Akaroa town with the luxury of your own space at the Akaroa Village Inn’s managed apartments. The “Romantic Suite” and “The Turrent” are the best choice for couples presented by this apartment collection, each individually owned and uniquely designed. Enjoy your spa bath/pool, four-poster bed, and having a full kitchen at your disposal, should you want a relaxing night in or head out for dinner at the nearby restaurants. We offer some restaurant recommendations in The Honeymoon Guide to Akaroa.
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9. The Wharf Akaroa
Choose from two well-appointed hotel suites or two self-contained studios at The Wharf Akaroa. Set above a bustling seafood restaurant and featuring unobstructed harbour views, this boutique hotel is a no-brainer for couples. Guests staying in the “Relax and Romance Suite” will receive a bottle of Daniel Le Brun and a Mediterranean Platter, which can be enjoyed from your private balcony. For something extra special, retreat to the “Old Shipping Office” which has been lovingly renovated to include a spa bath, cosy gas fire and oozes in stylish historical charm.
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10. Akaroa Criterion Motel
Last but certainly not least, the Akaroa Criterion Motel is an easy choice for the discerning couple. Stay in modernly designed motel units with luxuries like underfloor heating and most with sea views. The sea view room on the top floor is the most spectacular offering and a stunning place to watch the sunset. Rooms feature an ensuite and kitchenette facilities, while the tours from Daly’s Wharf – many of which feature in the 10 Romantic Activities in Akaroa for Couples – depart just outside of the motel.
Check Akaroa Criterion Motel out:
- Akaroa Criterion Motel on Booking.com
- Akaroa Criterion Motel on Trip.com
- Akaroa Criterion Motel on Expedia
More Romantic Accommodation in Akaroa
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.