Explore the great outdoors at Curio Bay Petrified Forest, a lovely green space in Curio Bay. Stroll along the beaches or visit the monuments while you're in the area.
Curio Bay/Porpoise Beach was an outstanding location. We loved the beachfront position where we could watch the dolphins playing right in the shallows. The famous petrified forest was brilliant, you can look at something 160 million years old. The Star filled dark sky was exquisite
Curio Bay/Porpoise Beach was an outstanding location. We loved the beachfront position where we could watch the dolphins playing right in the shallows. The famous petrified forest was brilliant, you can look at something 160 million years old. The Star filled dark sky was exquisite
Grant
Reviewed February 19, 2023Reviewed February 19, 2023
Stunning Cave Explorations: Discover the breathtaking Cathedral Caves with unique formations and impressive coastal views.
Scenic Coastal Walks: Enjoy the picturesque Cathedral Caves walk, featuring a rewarding climb and stunning vistas.
Dolphin Spotting: Experience the thrill of spotting dolphins in the waters surrounding the caves.
Beautiful Beaches: Relax on nearby pristine beaches, perfect for swimming, surfing, and camping.
Variety of Accommodations: Choose from cosy guesthouses and motels, catering to diverse needs and preferences.
Find great hotels near Cathedral Caves
Discover the charm of Cathedral Caves with a variety of accommodation options, including cosy guesthouses and motels. Enjoy pet-friendly services and LGBTQIA-welcoming environments, perfect for a relaxing beach getaway. Consider staying at Tatahi Lodge or cute cottages featuring private decks for a peaceful retreat. Experience the beauty of Chaslands while indulging in comfortable lodgings tailored to your needs.
Curio Bay Salt House Motel: Embrace the serene beach vacation experience at Curio Bay Salt House Motel, a charming 3-star guesthouse located a mere 22.5km from Cathedral Caves. Featuring direct beach access, this property is perfect for those looking to unwind by the sea. Guests can enjoy stunning coastal views and the soothing sounds of the ocean, while the comfortable accommodations provide a welcoming retreat after a day of exploring the beautiful Catlins region. Ideal for families and couples alike, this motel ensures a memorable stay filled with relaxation and natural beauty.
Waikawa House: Perfect for families and pet lovers, Waikawa House is a delightful 3.5-star guesthouse located 19.3km from Cathedral Caves. This property stands out for its pet-friendly amenities, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. With thoughtful features for children, including dinnerware and games, parents can relax while their kids are entertained. The inviting atmosphere and family-centric services make Waikawa House an excellent choice for a fun-filled getaway in the picturesque Catlins.
Mohua Park - Catlins Eco Accommodation: Experience an inclusive and welcoming stay at Mohua Park - Catlins Eco Accommodation, a 4-star motel just 19.3km from Cathedral Caves. This eco-friendly lodge is dedicated to sustainability and is particularly welcoming to the LGBTQIA community. With its affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides, guests can feel at home while enjoying the natural beauty of the Catlins. The property boasts comfortable accommodations and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, making it an ideal choice for conscious travellers seeking a unique and supportive atmosphere.
Where to stay near Cathedral Caves
Near Cathedral Caves, adventure awaits with stunning ecotourism experiences. Take a scenic walk to the caves featuring a decent climb that rewards you with fantastic views. This picturesque region is perfect for family vacations, offering a unique blend of nature and exploration. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil getaway or an exhilarating hike, the area surrounding Cathedral Caves promises unforgettable memories and a true taste of New Zealand's natural beauty.
The Catlins: Nestled approximately 12.9km from Cathedral Caves, The Catlins is a stunning region characterised by its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. This area attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel occurring from January to March. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, from pristine beaches to scenic lakes and picturesque bays. The Catlins is perfect for a romantic getaway or a tranquil escape into nature, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and relaxing in the great outdoors.
Papatowai: Located a mere 8.0km away from Cathedral Caves, Papatowai is a charming suburb that offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. Visitor numbers peak from December to February, making it a popular spot for summer getaways. Here, you can enjoy stunning lakes and beautiful beaches, as well as local monuments that tell the story of the area. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll along the shore or an adventurous day out, Papatowai has something for everyone.
Chaslands: As the immediate home of Cathedral Caves, Chaslands is a suburb that beckons tourists with its captivating scenery and outdoor offerings. With visitor numbers peaking from January to March, this area provides ample opportunities for exploration, including lakes, parks, and enchanting waterfalls. Chaslands is not only ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures but also for couples looking for a romantic retreat amidst stunning natural backdrops.
Things to do in Cathedral Caves
At Cathedral Caves in Chaslands, immerse yourself in nature with activities like exploring the stunning caves and embarking on the Cathedral Caves walk. Enjoy the scenic coastal views while surfing or camping nearby. Don't miss the chance to spot dolphins in the waters, making your visit a memorable Kiwi experience.
Shopping
While the Cathedral Caves area offers limited shopping options, you can find local crafts and souvenirs at nearby artisan markets. If you're up for a drive, head to Dunedin for larger shopping centres like Westfield Dunedin and The Meridian Mall, where you’ll find a wider range of gift shops.
Recreation
At Cathedral Caves, enjoy rejuvenating yoga sessions surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Experience the tranquility of nature while hiking the stunning coastal trails, followed by refreshing dips in nearby natural pools. Indulge in restorative massages at local wellness retreats to enhance your relaxation and well-being.
Adventure
At Cathedral Caves, explore magnificent sea caves and towering cliffs along the rugged coastline. Embark on guided tours to witness stunning rock formations and wildlife. For the adventurous, consider kayaking in the nearby waters or hiking through lush native bush, immersing yourself in the breathtaking Otago landscape.
Nightlife
Experience the unique ambience at the Catlins Café, where you can unwind with local wines and hearty meals. For a more relaxed evening, visit the nearby Owaka Hotel for a friendly atmosphere, cold beers, and occasional live music from local artists.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cathedral Caves
To save money on your trip to Cathedral Caves, consider visiting during the cheaper months of February to March or May. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance can help secure lower rates, especially if you opt for Saturday stays. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and refine your options based on budget and preferences. Look for package deals that combine flights and accommodation for extra savings. Remember to check for promotional codes like dtravel25 to access additional discounts and ensure you choose well-rated options for the best value.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Cathedral Caves are February to March and May, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Cathedral Caves about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Cathedral Caves is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Cathedral Caves is Monday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Cathedral Caves accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions near Cathedral Caves
Cathedral Caves in Chaslands, Otago, offers an array of outdoor adventures and romantic experiences, perfect for any traveller. Explore the stunning cathedral caves and picturesque Cathedral Cove, or enjoy the nearby beautiful beach and captivating waterfalls. Don't miss the amazing cave formations and the unique beauty of Catedrais Beach, making your visit a memorable one.
McLean Falls: Located 4.8km from Cathedral Caves, McLean Falls is a stunning waterfall set amidst lush greenery. Enjoy an adventurous hike through the native bush, culminating in a romantic view of cascading water that invites you to relax and soak in nature’s beauty.
Porpoise Bay Beach: Just 19.3km away, Porpoise Bay Beach is a picturesque stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing and swimming. With its gentle waves, it’s an ideal spot for families and those looking to unwind by the sea.
Purakaunui Falls: At 17.7km from Cathedral Caves, Purakaunui Falls captivates visitors with its multi-tiered cascades. The surrounding bush offers an adventurous atmosphere, making it perfect for exploration and romantic picnics among nature.
Best time to go to Cathedral Caves
The best time to visit Cathedral Caves can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Cathedral Caves falls in January, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Cathedral Caves falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
57.2°F (14.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Average
February
57.0°F (13.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Moderately High
Slightly Low
March
55.2°F (12.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Slightly Low
April
52.0°F (11.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
May
48.6°F (9.2°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
June
44.8°F (7.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately Low
Average
July
44.1°F (6.7°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
August
45.1°F (7.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately Low
Average
September
46.9°F (8.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately Low
Average
October
49.5°F (9.7°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
November
52.3°F (11.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
December
55.6°F (13.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
The nearest major airports for your trip to Cathedral Caves
To visit Cathedral Caves in Chaslands, the nearest major airport is Invercargill Airport (IVC), located 83.7km away. Several excellent accommodation options near IVC include the Safari Lodge, a 5-star hotel just 3.2km from the airport, and the Homestead Villa Motel, rated at 4.5 stars and also 3.2km away. Another great choice is the Balmoral Lodge Motel, which shares the same distance from the airport. Each of these hotels provides convenient access to Invercargill Airport, ensuring a smooth travel experience for your holiday adventure to the stunning Cathedral Caves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the area like around Cathedral Caves?
Cathedral Caves is located in Chaslands. When you want to settle in and find a place to stay, take a look at some of the hotels and other accommodation options that Expedia offers in the area.
Where is the best place to stay near Cathedral Caves?
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Cathedral Caves, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, it may still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then filter by "fully refundable" to view the best deals available near Cathedral Caves.