21 BEST Hotels & Places to Stay in Akaroa 🛎️ [2023]

Where to Find the Best Hotels and Alternative Accommodations in Akaroa

Akaroa is the oldest town in the Canterbury region of New Zealand and, with that, is home to a historical hotel that has been used as a hotel building since 1883. The small harbourside town also has a boutique hotel, but other than that, you have very few options when it comes to true hotels in Akaroa. Nevertheless, if a hotel room is what you prefer when travelling, then we offer a few alternatives, as well as completely different accommodations to inspire you to try something new! So, let’s get to the best hotels and places to stay in Akaroa!

For more trip-planning advice, check out The Complete Guide to Akaroa and be inspired for amazing experiences, from dolphin swimming to wine tasting, in the 15 Best Things to Do in Akaroa.

1. The Grand Hotel – The Best (and Only) Hotel in Akaroa

Let’s begin with one of the accommodations in Akaroa that is actually classed as a hotel. The Grand Hotel boasts nine well-presented and modern guest rooms inside the oldest hotel building on the Banks Peninsula with some features like the Victorian stairwell and fireplaces retained to emphasise the building’s historical charm. Choose from queen rooms, twin rooms and family rooms all with ensuite bathrooms. On-site is also a bistro and bar where breakfast is available at an additional price.

Check The Grand Hotel out:

The Grand Hotel on Booking.com

20 BEST Hotels & Places to Stay in Akaroa

2. Mt Vernon Lodge – Self-Catering Accommodation in Akaroa

While Mt Vernon Lodge does offer chalet and cabin accommodation, their main lodge is actually more like a hotel. Within the main lodge are six hotel-like rooms featuring a super king-sized bed and two single beds on a mezzanine floor. Facilities in the rooms include an ensuite and tea/coffee-making facilities, while guests also have access to a large communal kitchen and lounge with a sunken fireplace. The lodge is set among gardens and woodland atop a hill with commanding views of the Akaroa Harbour. See alternative self-catering stays in the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Akaroa.

Check Mt Vernon Lodge out:

3. French Bay House – Boutique Accommodation in Akaroa

While Akaroa doesn’t have an abundance of hotels, it certainly does have an abundance of B&Bs that you might want to consider instead. Vintage charm and modern living come together at French Bay House, which sits close to the town centre of Akaroa. Set among vibrant flower gardens, this boutique accommodation features just four fresh and tastefully-decorated guest rooms ensuring a peaceful stay. Rooms are that of a hotel standard and feature private ensuite bathrooms. Each morning, guests are treated to a cooked or continental breakfast. See more like this in the 10 Best Boutique Accommodations & B&Bs in Akaroa.

Check French Bay House out:

4. Akaroa Criterion Motel – Upscale Motel in Akaroa

Like most New Zealand towns, motels prevail in Akaroa, with one of the most suitable for discerning travellers being the Akaroa Criterion Motel. Stay in modernly designed units with luxuries like underfloor heating and most with sea views. Rooms feature ensuite and kitchenette facilities and are best suited to couples, solo travellers or a couple of friends travelling together. Compare this with other motels in the 10 Best Motels in Akaroa.

Check Akaroa Criterion Motel out:

5. Newton Heights – Luxury Accommodation in Akaroa

Perched on the hillside of Akaroa yet only a five-minute walk from the town centre, the location of Newton Heights is only part of the luxurious parcel this B&B has to offer. With eclectic architecture and interiors, this ultra-contemporary accommodation certainly provides a memorable stay across its three sumptuous guest rooms with lavish shared spaces. In winter, keep cosy with the central heating and both indoor and outdoor fireplaces, while summer is best sprawled across the tiered terrace with its own spa pool. What’s more, a cooked or continental breakfast is also included in your stay. Check out more luxurious stays like this in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Akaroa.

Check Newton Heights out:

Newton Heights on Booking.com

6. L’abri Bed and Breakfast – Bed and Breakfast Accommodation in Akaroa

L’abri Bed and Breakfast offers another modern and extremely popular B&B option in Akaroa. Stay in one of the two well-appointed guest rooms, each with large windows showcasing the harbour views, or retreat to the studio cottage in the garden for a more private stay. Enjoy an exquisite breakfast that’s produced and prepared with love with many of the ingredients coming from the garden. Oh, and speaking of the garden, it’s a labour of love that is a joy to explore.

Check L’abri Bed and Breakfast out:

7. Mumfords – Holiday Accommodation in Akaroa

Perched on a hillside overlooking the bays, Mumfords is an idyllic couples’ retreat where you’re exclusively the only guests. The upscale 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 with a log burner to the bedroom opening out through the French doors onto an extensive elevated deck. Discover more holiday accommodations like this in the 15 Best Holiday Homes in Akaroa.

Check Mumfords out:

8. Cherrywood Cottage – Popular Holiday Home in Akaroa

Nestled in native bush on the outskirts of Akaroa, Cherrywood Cottage not only captures tranquillity but spectacular Akaroa Harbour views. The two-bedroom holiday home offers many spaces to unwind between the spa bath and gorgeous gardens. You’ll settle in with ease thanks to the breakfast supplies at hand, as well as the luxury mattress toppers and plush bedspreads supplied in each bedroom – all for a very irresistible price.

Check Cherrywood Cottage out:

Cherrywood Cottage on Booking.com

9. La Rochelle Motel – Accommodation in Akaroa with Spa Baths

Another highlight for couples or a couple of friends travelling together, La Rochelle Motel features a selection of studio units, as well as one two-bedroom apartment for families. Enjoy the warmth of double-glazed windows, your own cooking facilities and some rooms with an indulgent spa bath. Rooms have a fresh feel and some feature a patio or balcony overlooking the surrounding gardens. Guests are also treated to leisure equipment hires, such as a petanque set, tennis gear for the local courts and fishing rods.

Check La Rochelle Motel out:

10. Beaufort House – Couples’ Accommodation in Akaroa

Built in 1878 and conveniently located on the outskirts of Akaroa town, Beaufort House basks in historical ambience and French flair complemented by tasteful French antique furniture. There are five gorgeous rooms to choose from at this boutique bed and breakfast, each wrapped in luxury from Egyptian cotton sheets and NZ woollen blankets to the bone china tea-making accessories with chocolates and cookies to enjoy at leisure, perhaps on your private balcony. Or you may want to sit in the vineyard and sip on wines with grapes grown on-site. A highlight, of course, is a breakfast of freshly-baked croissants, seasonal cooked breakfasts and much more. For more couple-centric stays like this, take a look at the 10 Most Romantic Accommodations in Akaroa.

Check Beaufort House out:

11. Akaroa TOP 10 Holiday Park – Cheap Accommodation in Akaroa

After a day’s exploring Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula, the recreation continues at the affordable Akaroa TOP 10 Holiday Park. A swimming pool and children’s playground are some of the features that make this Akaroa accommodation such a no-brainer, especially for families, while the camping sites, cabins and self-contained units make sure there’s accommodation to suit a range of budgets. If you’re camping or staying in a cabin, make use of the communal bathrooms and kitchen for self-catering. If you prefer your own private space, however, the self-contained units offer all the essential amenities at your fingertips. See more stays like this in the 8 Best Budget Accommodations in Akaroa.

Check Akaroa TOP 10 Holiday Park out:

12. Blythcliffe – Eco-Friendly Accommodation in Akaroa

The charming boutique B&Bs of Akaroa continue with Blythcliffe! The B&B boasts convenience and eco-friendly living, as it is set close to the town centre and has a low-to-zero waste policy. That way, you can enjoy a feel-good experience while soaking in the historical charm of its heritage building. There are just two guest rooms and one self-contained converted stable. Guests can spend their time here playing croquet or petanque, exploring the forest grounds and feeding the eels in the Balguerie Stream.

Check Blythcliffe out:

13. Akaroa Waterfront Motels – Waterfront Accommodation in Akaroa

The views of the Akaroa Waterfront Motels are just one of the drawcards to this absolute waterfront accommodation. Stay in one of the fresh and modern studios or one-bedroom, two-bedroom or three-bedroom units. Each feature a kitchen or kitchenette, bathroom and some with a private patio or balcony to soak up the harbour scenery and spot dolphins. Convenience is also a highlight with the town centre attractions just a short stroll away.

Check Akaroa Waterfront Motels out:

14. Akaroa on the Beach – Self-Contained Accommodation in Akaroa

For something a little different, check out the apartments and self-catering accommodation of Akaroa on the Beach. The boutique accommodation just a short stroll to town along the picturesque waterfront has three rooms. Enjoy the comforts of home either in the self-contained “Penthouse Studio” or the “Beachside Apartment” with a kitchen and ensuite. Alternatively, stay in the cosy “Island Room” which sleeps two and puts you into holiday mode with its island-style decor.

Check Akaroa on the Beach out:

15. Tresori Motor Lodge – Cheap Motel in Akaroa

An endearing studio and apartment complex within walking distance of the town centre, Tresori Motor Lodge boasts light-filled self-contained accommodation with all the conveniences of home. Couples and solo travellers have well-presented studios as an option, while small families have the choice of one-bedroom units and two-bedroom units more suitable. All rooms have a well-equipped kitchenette and easy walking distance to town to get supplies. What’s more, some rooms have a spa bath.

Check Tresori Motor Lodge out:

16. Bruce Waterfront Apartments – Family-Friendly Accommodation in Akaroa

For those who prefer to have the luxuries of home for their stay in Akaroa, the Bruce Waterfront Apartments offer charming self-contained accommodation close to the waterfront. The two-bedroom two-storey apartments feature a spacious and modern kitchen with elements of the traditional cottages emphasised, such as exposed timber ceilings. Apartments are tastefully decorated with a nautical theme to put you into the true holiday spirit. Thanks to its family-friendly rooms, we also list this accommodation in the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Akaroa.

Check Bruce Waterfront Apartments out:

17. Akaroa Village Inn – Holiday Apartments in Akaroa

Stay in the heart of Akaroa town with the luxury of your own space in the apartments of the Akaroa Village Inn. The homely suites, two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments are each individually owned and uniquely designed with modern fixings and decor. Enjoy having a full kitchen at your disposal, while entertainment comes in the form of an outdoor pool, free WiFi and Sky TV.

Check Akaroa Village Inn out:

18. Twin Gullies – Akaroa Accommodation with a Swimming Pool

Beautifully restored stables and a barn sit amidst five acres of gardens, paddocks and woodland at the Twin Gullies, just a short drive from Akaroa. Summer calls for a swim in the outdoor pool, while animal lovers will enjoy petting the sheep and feeding the chickens. After an evening of barbecuing or using the pizza oven under the walnut trees, retreat to your two-bedroom barn unit with a queen room and bedroom with two singles or another queen room. Alternatively, stay in “The Stable” which is self-contained for two guests. Breakfast is included in the rate.

Check Twin Gullies out:

19. Halfmoon Cottage – Budget Accommodation in the Banks Peninsula

A budget accommodation in Barrys Bay, Halfmoon Cottage offers a tranquil out-of-town retreat. The adults-only boutique accommodation features private double, twin and quadruple rooms with bunk beds, all with private separate bathrooms, at a reasonable price. Self-cater in the well-equipped communal kitchen and barbecue area and make use of the kayaks and bikes to explore the surrounding bays and mountains. Note that this accommodation is usually closed between June and September.

Check Halfmoon Cottage out:

Halfmoon Cottage on Booking.com

20. Duvauchelle Seaside Motel – Pet-Friendly Accommodation in Akaroa

Just north of Akaroa at the head of the Akaroa Harbour, Duvauchelle Seaside Motel is an idyllic base to explore the surrounding Banks Peninsula yet blissfully away from the hustle and bustle. Choose from upstairs and downstairs rooms, each with a kitchenette, dining area and lounge with a sofa bed, a separate bedroom with a queen-sized bed and an ensuite bathroom. Your balcony or patio is an excellent place to soak in the harbour views.

Check Duvauchelle Seaside Motel out:

20 BEST Hotels & Places to Stay in Akaroa 🛎️ [2023]

21. SiloStay – Unique Silo Accommodation in Akaroa (Little River)

One of the most unique accommodations on this list, and in New Zealand as featured in the 10 Unique Accommodations in the South Island, SiloStay offers self-contained accommodation in your own individual silo! The silos sleep up to two guests and boast an innovative eco-friendly design in the heart of Little River – a small village on the way to Akaroa. Make use of your own kitchenette facilities for a quiet night in and enjoy drinks on your private balcony. The accommodation has a Tesla charging station and bike hire too. For more experiences in the area, check out the 5 Best Things to Do in Little River.

Check SiloStay out:

More About Hotels and Places to Stay in Akaroa

That’s it for our list of the best hotels and places to stay in Akaroa. For more advice on planning an awesome trip to Akaroa, check out the following guides:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Guide to 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.

Contact Laura via our contact page