A coastal landscape with wind turbines, rolling hills, and a beach.

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22 Aug - 23 Aug
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23 Aug - 24 Aug
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28 Aug - 30 Aug
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4 Sept - 6 Sept

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Our top choices for Makara Beach hotels

1. James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor

James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Wellington CBD
Australia
Jo
NZ$139
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor

2. Oaks Wellington Hotel

Oaks Wellington Hotel
Te Aro
Australia
bradley
NZ$149
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Oaks Wellington Hotel

3. Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay

Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay
Mount Victoria
Australia
Sharni
NZ$163
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay

4. Gilmer Apartment Hotel

Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Wellington CBD
Australia
Mario
NZ$133
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Gilmer Apartment Hotel

5. Rydges Wellington

Rydges Wellington
Pipitea
Australia
Judith
NZ$165
includes taxes & fees
28 Aug - 29 Aug
Rydges Wellington

6. InterContinental Wellington by IHG

InterContinental Wellington by IHG
Wellington CBD
Australia
Alexander
NZ$297
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
InterContinental Wellington by IHG

7. Travelodge Hotel Wellington

Travelodge Hotel Wellington
Wellington CBD
Australia
Moana
NZ$134
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Travelodge Hotel Wellington

8. Rydges Wellington Airport

Rydges Wellington Airport
Rongotai
Australia
Richard
NZ$220
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Rydges Wellington Airport

9. DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington

DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington
Wellington CBD
Australia
Jody
NZ$169
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington

10. ibis Wellington

ibis Wellington
Wellington CBD
Australia
Kate
NZ$123
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
ibis Wellington

11. Museum Apartment Hotel, Independent Collection by EVT

Museum Apartment Hotel, Independent Collection by EVT
Te Aro
Australia
Rebecca
NZ$223
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Museum Apartment Hotel, Independent Collection by EVT

12. Adina CityLife Wellington

Adina CityLife Wellington
Wellington CBD
Australia
Chris
NZ$170
includes taxes & fees
28 Aug - 29 Aug
Adina CityLife Wellington

13. Bolton Hotel

Bolton Hotel
Wellington CBD
Australia
Laura
NZ$184
includes taxes & fees
29 Aug - 30 Aug
Bolton Hotel

14. Mövenpick Hotel Wellington

Mövenpick Hotel Wellington
Te Aro
Australia
Kerry
NZ$179
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Mövenpick Hotel Wellington

15. Quest Atrium Serviced Apartments

Quest Atrium Serviced Apartments
Wellington CBD
Australia
Michael
NZ$127
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Quest Atrium Serviced Apartments

16. Sofitel Wellington

Sofitel Wellington
Wellington CBD
Australia
Murray
NZ$260
includes taxes & fees
28 Aug - 29 Aug
Sofitel Wellington

17. Naumi Studio Wellington

Naumi Studio Wellington
Te Aro
Australia
Paula
NZ$125
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Naumi Studio Wellington

18. Naumi Hotel Wellington

Naumi Hotel Wellington
Te Aro
Australia
Joe
NZ$215
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Naumi Hotel Wellington

19. The Viv Hotel Wellington

The Viv Hotel Wellington
Te Aro
Australia
Carey
NZ$126
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
The Viv Hotel Wellington

20. Novotel Wellington

Novotel Wellington
Wellington CBD
Australia
Sharon
NZ$141
includes taxes & fees
28 Aug - 29 Aug
Novotel Wellington
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Learn more about Makara Beach

Rugged coastal beauty awaits at Makara Beach where you can hike the windswept cliff trails for spectacular Cook Strait views. Bring your fishing gear to cast from the rocky shoreline or watch local surfers tackle the challenging waves.

See all hotels in Makara Beach
A coastal landscape with wind turbines, rolling hills, and a beach.
Photo by Paul Billaney

Top Makara Beach Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Makara Beach

Gilmer Apartment Hotel

Gilmer Apartment Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Great central city location with onsite parking . Although that also does make it quite noisy. They need to sort out curtains in the rooms as big gaps down the sides which makes it like daylight with all the artificial lights outside."
Kelly 1-night trip
Posted 9 hours ago
Gilmer Apartment Hotel
Rydges Wellington Airport

Rydges Wellington Airport

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent facilities for great price"
Blake 1-night trip
Posted 15 hours ago
Rydges Wellington Airport
Adina CityLife Wellington

Adina CityLife Wellington

10/10 Excellent
"Centrally located in Wellingtons CBD it offers you great value for money"
Chris 3-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Adina CityLife Wellington
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington

DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington

10/10 Excellent
"This was our second stay at Doubletree in the past month. We love this hotel, which is incredibly welcoming, friendly, comfortable and convenient. The restaurant staff even recognised us and welcome us back! The parking is great, the welcome cookie delicious and the staff are very helpful and efficient. We’ll be back again soon!"
Charlotte 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington
Rydges Wellington

Rydges Wellington

10/10 Excellent
"Our travel changed a the last minute and we ended up arriving early morning instead of mid afternoon- Gem (Jen?) was so lovely and helpful. All the front desk staff were great. Such a lovely hotel, would’ve liked to have stayed longer. Good facilities (although the spa wouldn’t get warm which was a shame so couldn’t use it - and was one of the main reasons I selected this hotel! But excellent experience overall."
Kelly 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Rydges Wellington
Novotel Wellington

Novotel Wellington

10/10 Excellent
"Clean room and well maintained property"
Campbell 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Novotel Wellington
ibis Wellington

ibis Wellington

10/10 Excellent
"Had a great stay!"
Kate 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
ibis Wellington
Naumi Studio Wellington

Naumi Studio Wellington

10/10 Excellent
"The property was clean, tidy, very central & good value for money. Many thanks."
Martin 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Naumi Studio Wellington
Sofitel Wellington

Sofitel Wellington

10/10 Excellent
"Great!"
Murray 5-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Sofitel Wellington

More cheap accommodation in Makara Beach

Aura Hotel

Aura Hotel

95 Manners Street Wellington
NZ$63
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
5.4/10 (449 reviews)
Aura Hotel
Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers

Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers

1 Bunny Street Wellington Cbd Wellington
NZ$65
25 Aug - 26 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers
Halswell Lodge - Motel

Halswell Lodge - Motel

21 Kent Terrace Wellington
NZ$68
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
5.8/10 (699 reviews)
Halswell Lodge - Motel
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers

The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers

28 Cambridge Terrace Wellington
NZ$90
29 Aug - 30 Aug
includes taxes & fees
The Cambridge Hotel & Backpackers
Southgate Motor Inn

Southgate Motor Inn

70 Riddiford St Wellington Wellington
NZ$110
20 Sept - 21 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (80 reviews)
Southgate Motor Inn
Park Hotel Lambton Quay

Park Hotel Lambton Quay

101 The Terrace Wellington Wellington
NZ$113
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Park Hotel Lambton Quay

Find out more about Makara Beach

Top reasons to visit Makara Beach

  • Stunning Coastal Scenery: Makara Beach features breathtaking views along its picturesque coastline, perfect for leisurely strolls.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking the scenic Makara Track and Mākara Walkway, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Relaxing Beach Experience: Swim and unwind on the sandy beach, while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
  • Cultural Exploration: Discover historic civic buildings and local galleries that showcase the region's rich heritage.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of eco-certified stays, catering to families and luxury seekers alike.

Find great hotels near Makara Beach

Discover a range of accommodation options at Makara Beach, where you'll find inviting hotels and guesthouses tailored for both leisure and business travellers. Enjoy eco-certified stays and immerse yourself in the local charm while being close to attractions like the Makara Model School and nearby hotels in Paremata and Miramar. Your perfect getaway awaits amidst the stunning coastal scenery of Greater Wellington.

  • James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor: This 4.5-star hotel is renowned for its blend of family-friendly amenities and adventure-focused activities. Located 8.0km from Makara Beach, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking both relaxation and excitement. Guests can enjoy various adventure sports such as hiking, kayaking, and sailing nearby. The hotel caters to families with services like babysitting and complimentary cribs. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, it provides a welcoming atmosphere for both families and adventure enthusiasts alike.
  • Rydges Wellington: Rated at 4.5 stars, Rydges Wellington is an eco-certified property situated 8.0km from Makara Beach, making it a suitable option for environmentally conscious travellers. It features a full-service spa and indoor pool, offering a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring. Families are well accommodated with amenities such as window guards and free cribs. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, the spa facilities and eco-friendly focus create a unique blend of comfort and sustainability for visitors.
  • ibis Wellington: This 3.5-star hotel, located in the city centre and 8.0km from Makara Beach, is perfect for families and business travellers alike. It offers a range of amenities including cribs and first aid kits for children, catering to family needs. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, the ibis Wellington provides a convenient base for exploring the city while ensuring comfort and practicality, making it a solid choice for those visiting the Greater Wellington area.

Where to stay in Makara Beach

Makara Beach offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and romantic escapades. Stroll along the stunning coastline, where breathtaking views await. Explore the nearby hills for a scenic walk, or enjoy a picnic on the special sandy beach. The friendly local atmosphere and range of accommodation options make it ideal for families and luxury seekers alike. Don't miss the chance to discover hidden gems in the surrounding regions, ensuring a memorable experience in this beautiful part of Wellington.

  • Wellington: As the vibrant capital of New Zealand, Wellington offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. Situated near Makara Beach, the city is known for its rich cultural scene, including theatres, music concerts, and educational venues. The city's waterfront is a hub of activity, with stunning views and numerous eateries to enjoy. Wellington is an ideal base for family outings, outdoor adventures, and business-related travel, making it a versatile destination all year round.
  • Wellington CBD: Located 9.7km from Makara Beach, Wellington CBD is the heart of the city, teeming with life and energy. This neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking a city-themed experience, with a variety of shopping centres and theatres at your doorstep. The streets are bustling with both locals and tourists, creating a lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the nearby tourist precincts, making it an exciting spot for families and business travellers alike.
  • Ohariu: Just 4.8km from Makara Beach, Ohariu is a charming suburb that caters to those looking for a more laid-back experience. Known for its family-friendly beaches and outdoor activities, Ohariu is a great place to unwind and enjoy nature. The area boasts beautiful nature reserves and is perfect for leisurely walks or picnics by the beach. With its welcoming community and stunning scenery, Ohariu is an excellent choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Things to do in Makara Beach

Shopping

While Makara Beach offers a quaint coastal experience, nearby shopping options include local markets and stores for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the Wellington CBD for larger malls like Queensgate Shopping Centre and The Tannery, featuring a variety of shops and boutiques.

Recreation

Makara Beach offers a tranquil setting for wellness retreats, where you can unwind with yoga sessions on the beach or indulge in holistic spa treatments. Explore scenic coastal walks or enjoy kayaking in the calm waters, all while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Adventure

Explore the scenic Makara Beach, where you can enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding in the calm waters. Take a hike along the rugged coastline for dramatic views, or try your hand at fishing from the beach. The surrounding hills also offer excellent trails for mountain biking and walking.

Nightlife

Enjoy the relaxed vibe at the Makara Beach Café, where you can unwind with a local wine. For a more lively atmosphere, head to the nearby Wellington waterfront, where you can find bars and live music to keep you entertained into the night.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Makara Beach

To enjoy a budget-friendly vacation at Makara Beach, take advantage of free activities like exploring the beach and nearby attractions such as Wellington Central Business District and Lambton Quay. Use public transport options like buses or bicycles to save on travel costs. Plan your visit during the cheaper months of January, June, or August, and consider booking accommodations about a month in advance to secure the best deals. Look for package deals on Expedia for flights and hotels, and remember that Sundays typically offer the lowest accommodation rates.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Makara Beach are January, June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Makara Beach 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 in Makara Beach is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Makara Beach is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool gives you the flexibility to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can easily sort your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodation options first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will help you discover sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book with confidence.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make some savings by putting together your Makara Beach hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Makara Beach

Makara Beach is perfect for outdoor, romantic getaways, offering a mix of culture and family-friendly experiences. Explore the historic civic buildings, charming town neighbourhoods, and local galleries. The stunning rocky beaches and the scenic Mākara settlement provide ample opportunities for relaxation and adventure, making it a delightful destination for any traveller seeking to enjoy the natural beauty and rich heritage of the area.

  • Wellington Central Business District: Experience the vibrant heart of Wellington, with its bustling streets filled with shops, cafés, and cultural attractions. This lively area showcases the city’s modernity and charm, making it an engaging spot to explore local life and enjoy a variety of dining options.
  • Lambton Quay: Stroll along this iconic shopping street, renowned for its retail offerings and picturesque views. Lambton Quay is lined with a mix of boutiques and major brands, perfect for a leisurely shopping experience while soaking up the city's energy.
  • New Zealand Parliament Buildings: Visit these historic buildings to appreciate New Zealand’s political history and architecture. The impressive structures provide insight into the nation’s governance and are surrounded by beautiful gardens, making it a culturally enriching stop.

Best time to go to Makara Beach

The best time to visit Makara Beach is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
February62.8°F (17.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Makara Beach

Visiting Makara Beach is convenient via nearby airports. Wellington International Airport (WLG) is approximately 14.5km away, with excellent hotels like InterContinental Wellington and Sofitel Wellington, both around 6.4km from the airport. Nelson Airport (NSN) is 123.9km from Makara Beach, featuring hotels such as Palazzo Motor Lodge and Century Park Motor Lodge, both about 4.8km away. Finally, Palmerston North International Airport (PMR) is located 125.5km from Makara Beach, with options like Distinction Coachman Hotel and Hacienda Motor Lodge, situated within 4.8km. Each of these airports offers various transport services, ensuring easy access to your accommodation and the beautiful beach.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Makara Beach?
The best area to stay in Makara Beach is right along the beachfront, particularly in the vicinity of Makara Road and the surrounding coastal properties.This area offers direct access to the pebble beach and the Tasman Sea. It's characterised by a collection of holiday homes and a few local amenities, providing a relaxed, coastal village feel. The main focal point is the beach itself, popular for walks and enjoying the sea air.Couples looking for a peaceful escape will find this area ideal. The opportunity for long, quiet strolls along the beach, enjoying sunsets over the sea, and simply relaxing away from the city hustle makes it a great romantic retreat. The Makara Walkway, starting from the beach, also offers a chance for scenic hikes.For families, staying near the beach provides easy access for children to play by the water (under supervision, as the sea can be rough). The open spaces and the natural environment offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like exploring the coastline or having a picnic.
When is the best time to go to Makara Beach?
The best time to visit Makara Beach is during the summer months, from December to February, when the weather is warmest and most suitable for outdoor activities.During this period, you can expect average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C, with plenty of sunshine. This makes it ideal for enjoying the beach itself, exploring the walking and cycling trails, and having picnics by the coast. The longer daylight hours also allow for more time to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.Families will find this time particularly good as the calmer seas can be more inviting for children to play near the water's edge, and the pleasant weather makes for comfortable outdoor adventures.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to 'My Trips' and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by 'Fully refundable property' for hotels in Makara Beach.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Makara Beach with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Makara Beach hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Makara Beach?
Prices for hotels in Makara Beach often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$63 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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