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The best area to stay in Scarborough, Canterbury, New Zealand, is Sumner, a coastal suburb located beneath the dramatic Port Hills.


Sumner is a popular seaside village known for its beautiful beach, scenic esplanade, and relaxed atmosphere. The main street, Marriner Street, runs parallel to the beach and is lined with cafes, restaurants, and local shops. It's a very walkable area, with direct access to the sand and several walking tracks leading up into the hills.


Families will find Sumner particularly appealing due to its direct beach access, which is great for swimming, surfing, and building sandcastles. There are also several playgrounds along the esplanade, and the Scarborough paddling pool is a hit with younger children. The flat, accessible promenade is ideal for prams and scooters.


Couples often enjoy Sumner for its picturesque setting and varied dining options. You can take a leisurely stroll along the beach at sunset, enjoy a meal with ocean views, or explore the local art galleries.

The best time to go to Scarborough, Canterbury, New Zealand is during the summer months, from December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny.


During this period, you can expect long daylight hours, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This makes it ideal for enjoying the coastal walks, beaches, and outdoor activities Scarborough is known for. The sea is also at its warmest, superb for swimming or water sports.


Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are also good times to visit, offering milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Spring brings blooming flowers and new growth, while autumn showcases beautiful changing leaves, particularly in the nearby Port Hills. Temperatures during these seasons typically range from 15°C to 20°C.


Winter (June to August) is cooler, with average temperatures around 10°C to 12°C. While it's not ideal for beach activities, it can be a good time for those who enjoy crisp, clear days for hiking or simply wish to experience the area in a quieter period.

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 Scarborough.

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Scarborough 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.

Prices for hotels in Scarborough often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$107 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.