Search Oamaru hotels

Top reasons to visit Oamaru

• Historic Architecture: Oamaru features stunning Victorian architecture, particularly in its historic town centre, showcasing the unique Oamaru stone.
• Oamaru Opera House: This beautifully restored venue offers a variety of performances and events, making it a cultural hub.
• Steampunk Culture: Experience Oamaru's vibrant steampunk scene, with quirky shops and festivals celebrating this unique subculture.
• Stunning Scenery: Explore breathtaking coastal landscapes and the picturesque Oamaru Public Gardens, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Wildlife Encounters: Don't miss the chance to see local wildlife, including the famous blue penguins at the nearby coast.

Find great hotels in Oamaru

Discover the charm of Oamaru with a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller's needs. From cosy motels and lodges to eco-certified stays, you can find the perfect base for your family vacation. Explore popular choices like Oamaru Hotels, Oamaru Backpackers, Heritage Hideaway, and Teschemakers Resort, all offering a unique blend of comfort and convenience in this picturesque Otago town.

• The Mews Oamaru: The Mews Oamaru is a charming 4.5-star motel that offers a family-friendly and eco-conscious getaway in Oamaru. With a notable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this property is designed for those seeking comfort and sustainability. The accommodations are equipped with amenities tailored for families, including a First Aid Kit, highchairs, and cribs at no extra charge. The eco-certification ensures that your stay is environmentally friendly, allowing you to enjoy your vacation while being mindful of your carbon footprint.
• Ascot Oamaru Motel: Ascot Oamaru Motel is a welcoming 3-star accommodation option ideal for families looking to enjoy a relaxing vacation. This motel is equipped with family-friendly amenities, such as a First Aid Kit, an arcade game room for endless entertainment, and a children’s pool to keep the little ones entertained. While it offers essential comforts, the atmosphere remains casual and inviting, making it a great base for exploring Oamaru and its attractions.
• Brydone Hotel Oamaru: The Brydone Hotel Oamaru is a well-rated 3.5-star hotel that combines comfort with eco-consciousness. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this establishment offers a warm atmosphere for travellers seeking an eco-certified experience. The hotel's commitment to environmental sustainability is evident, appealing to those who value conscious living. With its central location, guests can easily explore the charming town of Oamaru while enjoying the hotel's thoughtful amenities.

Where to stay in and around Oamaru

Oamaru, a charming city on the South Island, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and romantic escapes. Explore the historic town centre, where Victorian architecture meets vibrant steampunk culture. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby coastal landscapes and wildlife, perfect for family outings. With its unique vibes and rich experiences, Oamaru is a must-visit destination for any traveller seeking adventure and relaxation.

• Kakanui: A charming suburb located 11.3km from Oamaru, Kakanui offers a delightful escape for nature lovers. Known for its stunning outdoor scenery and eco-friendly experiences, this area sees a peak in visitor numbers from December to February. Popular activities include indulging in spa treatments and exploring local stores. The nearby beach and tranquil lake provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation, while water features add to the scenic beauty. Kakanui is ideal for those seeking an outdoor adventure filled with picturesque views.
• Awamoa: Situated a mere 4.8km from Oamaru, Awamoa is a quaint suburb that seamlessly blends outdoor activities with romantic experiences. Visitors are drawn to its serene environment, particularly from January to March. The local shopping area offers unique finds, while the proximity to beautiful beaches and lakes ensures plenty of opportunities for exploration. With its stunning water features, Awamoa is perfect for couples looking to enjoy a peaceful getaway or families wanting to immerse themselves in nature.
• Oamaru North: Nestled around the area of Oamaru, Oamaru North is a suburb that captivates visitors with its rich history and scenic landscapes. Similar to its neighbours, the area attracts tourists year-round, especially from January to March. Offering a combination of body treatments and spa experiences, Oamaru North caters to those seeking relaxation. The nearby lake and water features, along with a history museum, provide a unique blend of leisure and culture, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Otago region.

Things to do in Oamaru

Shopping

In Oamaru, explore local shops and boutiques for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby North Otago Farmers Market, about 24.1km away, where you can find fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts to take home.

Recreation

In Oamaru, indulge in a rejuvenating experience at the Oamaru Wellness Centre, offering holistic therapies and massage treatments surrounded by tranquil gardens. Nearby, explore the beautiful Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll while observing these charming birds in their natural habitat.

Adventure

Explore the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony to witness the enchanting sight of little blue penguins returning home at dusk. For thrill-seekers, the Oamaru Skate Park offers an adrenaline-pumping venue for skateboarding and scootering amidst a vibrant community atmosphere.

Nightlife

For a lively evening, visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony to witness the enchanting penguin parade. Afterwards, head to the Criterion Hotel for a casual drink and local vibes, or check out the Oamaru Opera House for occasional events that showcase local talent.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Oamaru

To save money on your trip to Oamaru, consider visiting between May to June or August when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or taking advantage of last-minute deals on sites like Expedia can yield great savings. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and look for package deals that combine flights and accommodation for additional savings. Enjoy free activities like exploring the coastline and parks to make the most of your visit without overspending.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Oamaru are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Oamaru about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Oamaru is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Oamaru is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool gives you the flexibility to choose your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, highlighting the most affordable accommodation options first. Additionally, you can narrow down your choices by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Oamaru hotel booking with your flights and activities when you opt for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Oamaru

Oamaru offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and scenic beauty, perfect for a romantic getaway. Key attractions include the Oamaru Public Gardens, Oamaru Opera House, and the stunning lookout point. Visitors can also admire the unique Oamaru stone and explore the local galleries and harbour, making it an ideal destination for culture enthusiasts and families alike.

• Oamaru Harbour: This picturesque harbour features stunning coastal scenery and tranquil beaches, making it a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. Watch the boats come and go while enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding cliffs and ocean.
• Steampunk HQ: Dive into a realm of imagination at this quirky exhibit that showcases the unique culture of the steampunk movement. With interactive displays and intricate machinery, it’s an engaging experience that blends art, science, and history in a whimsical setting.
• North Otago Museum: Discover the rich history and culture of the region. The museum offers fascinating exhibits that highlight local heritage, natural history, and art, providing an insightful glimpse into Oamaru's past and its community.

Best time to go to Oamaru

The best time to visit Oamaru can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Oamaru falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Oamaru falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	57.6°F (14.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	46.0°F (7.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	45.9°F (7.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	47.5°F (8.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Oamaru

Flying into Oamaru, you have several airport options. Dunedin Airport (DUD) is situated 109.4km away, with nearby accommodation such as Bonnie Knights Motel and Bella Vista Motel Mosgiel, both 12.9km from the airport. Timaru Airport (TIU) is 90.1km from Oamaru, offering hotels like Aspen on King Motel, located 11.3km away. Wānaka Airport (WKA), located 141.6km from Oamaru, has luxurious options including Lakeshore Springs Apartments, just 9.7km from the airport, and Edgewater, which is 11.3km away. Each hotel provides various transport services to ensure a smooth journey to and from the airports.