South Bay Hotels, Kaikōura

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174 Cheap Hotels in South Bay - Specials, Reviews, & Last Minute Deals

Bay Cottages

3.0 star property
South Bay
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (108)
"Hosts lovely. Clean, fresh, bright room - those were the winners! "
Australia
Diana
The price is NZ$160
includes taxes & fees
30 Nov - 1 Dec
Bay Cottages

Alpine-pacific Holiday Park

3.0 star property
3.5 km from South Bay
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (430)
"Great little cabin 2 beds, father and son on the road to Auckland from Christchurch - good TV and showers in the main male block great....just the main lights not working above them thought you might like to know (2 were 2 weren't) - hot water zip in the kitchen very welcome - all in all very good value and communications were great throughout - will certainly stay again if lucky enough to be back along this beautiful coastline"
Australia
Andrew
The price is NZ$103
includes taxes & fees
23 Nov - 24 Nov
Alpine-pacific Holiday Park

Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments

3.0 star property
1.7 km from South Bay
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (573)
"Great stay "
Canada
Meghan
The price is NZ$210
includes taxes & fees
15 Dec - 16 Dec
Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments

Kaikoura Quality Suites

3.5 star property
4.3 km from South Bay
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (361)
"Friendly staff, clean room, great central location "
United Kingdom
Debbie
The price is NZ$180
includes taxes & fees
23 Nov - 24 Nov
Kaikoura Quality Suites

The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura

3.5 star property
Kaikoura Flat, 3.4 km from South Bay
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (406)
"Wonderful suite in a beautiful location. Staff very helpful and friendly. Highly recommended staying here when visiting Kaikouraa"
United Kingdom
Bernard
The price is NZ$192
includes taxes & fees
23 Nov - 24 Nov
The Fairways Accommodation Kaikoura

Mondello Kaikoura

3.0 star property
3.1 km from South Bay
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (399)
"Good apartment close to town centre"
United Kingdom
RUTH
The price is NZ$168
includes taxes & fees
3 Dec - 4 Dec
Mondello Kaikoura

Kaikoura Beach Motel

2.5 star property
1.7 km from South Bay
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (398)
"The room was great and clean, nice for our overnight stay "
Australia
Allan Charles
The price is NZ$143
includes taxes & fees
1 Dec - 2 Dec
Kaikoura Beach Motel

Koura Bay Resort

3.5 star property
10.1 km from South Bay
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (89)
"Loved our stay would definitely recommend. "
Australia
Ange
The price is NZ$197
includes taxes & fees
28 Nov - 29 Nov
Koura Bay Resort

Kaikoura Gateway Motor Lodge

4.5 star property
2.4 km from South Bay
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (566)
"Well kept property, friendly team and easy walk to the main shops in Kaikoura"
Australia
Andrew
The price is NZ$165
includes taxes & fees
24 Nov - 25 Nov
Kaikoura Gateway Motor Lodge

Alpine View Motel

3.0 star property
4.3 km from South Bay
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (536)
"Awesome clean place to stay, will be back "
Australia
Aporini
The price is NZ$156
includes taxes & fees
23 Nov - 24 Nov
Alpine View Motel

Kaikoura Boutique Hotel

4.5 star property
1.6 km from South Bay
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (343)
"It was a wonderfully clean room, and great staff."
Canada
Andrew O
The price is NZ$224
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
Kaikoura Boutique Hotel

Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park

3.0 star property
3.2 km from South Bay
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (323)
"It was a great stay."
Australia
Grady
The price is NZ$128
includes taxes & fees
13 Dec - 14 Dec
Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park

Sierra Beachfront Motel

2.5 star property
1.5 km from South Bay
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (258)
"Friendly staff, clean room, great location"
United States
Agata Anna
The price is NZ$118
includes taxes & fees
30 Nov - 1 Dec
Sierra Beachfront Motel

Te Mahuru Retreat

3.5 star property
Kaikoura Flat, 6.7 km from South Bay
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (151)
"Te Mahuru is a most exceptional, beautiful, very clean and overall, a perfect place to stay. Jen went out of her way to be accommodating and we give thanks t the highest rating possible. The gardens and views were spectacular, the hot tubs were lovely and very clean and the breakfast was delicious. Homemade bread each morning and plenty of great choices. The patio off our room was very private and comfortable for sitting with a cup of tea gazing at the beautiful mountains in the background....
United States
Denise
The price is NZ$245
includes taxes & fees
27 Nov - 28 Nov
Te Mahuru Retreat

Sudima Kaikoura

5.0 star property
1.7 km from South Bay
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (440)
"Great hotel "
United Kingdom
David
The price is NZ$223
includes taxes & fees
2 Dec - 3 Dec
Sudima Kaikoura

Kaikoura Motor Inn

2.0 star property
4.9 km from South Bay
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (503)
"Staff very friendly. Very clean rooms, great part of town ,great price."
Australia
Karen
The price is NZ$148
includes taxes & fees
24 Nov - 25 Nov
Kaikoura Motor Inn

The White Morph - Heritage Collection

4.5 star property
1.4 km from South Bay
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (626)
"Great location ... excellent value for money"
Australia
Jason
The price is NZ$226
includes taxes & fees
23 Nov - 24 Nov
The White Morph - Heritage Collection

Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses

5.0 star property
13.2 km from South Bay
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (5)
"Absolutely unforgettable stay from start to finish. The staff were amazing, the grounds are unreal and the pool was divine. What a fantastic place, I wish it was closer to my home so I could come back regularly!"
United Kingdom
Kate
The price is NZ$1,944
includes taxes & fees
1 Dec - 2 Dec
Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses

Dusky Lodge - Hostel

2.0 star property
3.4 km from South Bay
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (214)
"Kind staff and good room . Please announcement for use swimming pool for summer only "
Australia
Asrul aziz
The price is NZ$110
includes taxes & fees
1 Dec - 2 Dec
Dusky Lodge - Hostel

Bella Vista Motel Kaikoura

4.0 star property
2 km from South Bay
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (300)
"Great overnight stay."
Australia
Annatjie
The price is NZ$175
includes taxes & fees
30 Nov - 1 Dec
Bella Vista Motel Kaikoura
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Our guide on where to stay in South Bay

Find the best South Bay areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Kaikoura Flat

While visiting Kaikoura Flat, you might make a stop by sights like Mount Fyffe and Kaikoura Beach.

Kaikoura Peninsula

If you're spending some time in Kaikoura Peninsula, Peninsula Walkway and Point Kean Seal Colony are top sights worth seeing.

Top South Bay Hotel Reviews

Find out more about South Bay

Find great hotels near South Bay

South Bay in Kaikōura offers a delightful array of accommodation options, perfect for those seeking a beachside retreat. From luxurious hotels to cosy motels and holiday homes, visitors will find eco-certified choices that cater to every traveller’s needs. Whether you're after a relaxing getaway or an adventurous holiday, South Bay has the ideal lodging to enhance your experience in this stunning coastal region of New Zealand.

  • Sudima Kaikoura: Experience luxury and nature combined at Sudima Kaikoura, a 3.5-star eco-certified hotel located a mile from South Bay. Designed for eco-conscious travellers, this property offers a serene environment where you can unwind amidst stunning natural landscapes. Guests appreciate the modern amenities, including spacious rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant that focuses on local, sustainable produce. Enjoy a relaxing stay that embraces both comfort and environmental responsibility, making it the ideal choice for those seeking a nature-themed getaway.
  • Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments: Perfect for adventure seekers, Kaikoura Waterfront Apartments is a 3-star accommodation situated a mile from South Bay. This property features direct beach access, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a range of exciting outdoor activities. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or hunting, there’s no shortage of adventure right at your doorstep. The apartments are well-equipped with kitchen facilities and spacious living areas, making it a convenient and comfortable option for families or groups looking to explore the beautiful coastal surroundings.
  • The White Morph - Heritage Collection: Nestled just 1.4km from South Bay, The White Morph – Heritage Collection is a charming 4-star motel that seamlessly blends beachside relaxation with eco-friendly practices. With direct access to the beach, guests can enjoy breathtaking ocean views and tranquil walks along the shore. The property is eco-certified, catering to environmentally conscious travellers. The well-appointed rooms offer a cosy atmosphere, complemented by modern amenities, ensuring a delightful stay for those looking to unwind in a beautiful coastal setting.

Where to stay near South Bay

South Bay, Kaikōura, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. This beautiful region is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and outdoor activities. Explore the nearby Kaikōura Peninsula, where you can spot marine wildlife, or unwind in charming holiday cottages with lovely views. The friendly atmosphere and breathtaking landscapes make South Bay an ideal destination for an unforgettable Kiwi getaway.

  • Kaikōura: Nestled along the stunning East Coast of New Zealand's South Island, Kaikōura is a charming city renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. With the Southern Alps as a backdrop and the Pacific Ocean at its doorstep, visitors flock here for whale watching, seal encounters, and hiking along scenic trails. The city’s vibrant atmosphere peaks during the summer months, from December to February, making it the perfect time for outdoor enthusiasts. Not to be missed are the local landmarks, including the picturesque river and tranquil valleys that showcase the region's natural beauty.
  • Kaikōura Peninsula: A scenic suburb just 1.6km from South Bay, Kaikōura Peninsula offers stunning coastal views and rich marine life. This area is a haven for outdoor adventurers, with numerous hiking trails that wind along the cliffs and beaches. Visitors are drawn to the peninsula for its spectacular scenery and opportunities for wildlife encounters. The summer months see a spike in tourist activity, while the surrounding beach and marina provide ideal spots for relaxation and exploration. Experience the unique ecosystem of the peninsula, where land meets sea in a symphony of beauty.
  • Peketa: Located approximately 8.0km from South Bay, Peketa is a tranquil suburb perfect for those looking to unwind. Offering both adventure and relaxation, this area is popular for its beautiful beaches and rolling valleys. Outdoor activities abound, from golfing on scenic courses to skiing in nearby fields. The seasonal influx of visitors from December to February means there’s a lively community atmosphere during the summer. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Peketa’s stunning mountain views and coastal charm provide a delightful escape.

Things to do near South Bay

South Bay, Kaikōura offers an incredible outdoor adventure with stunning scenery. Enjoy activities like golf and skiing nearby, but don't miss the unforgettable experiences of whale watching, scuba diving, and exploring the coastline with Kaikōura Kayaks. This destination is perfect for those seeking adventure and the beauty of New Zealand's natural landscape.

Shopping

In South Bay, Kaikōura, explore the local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. Visit the Kaikōura Market for fresh produce and handmade crafts. The nearby Kaikōura Shopping Centre offers a selection of boutiques and specialty stores, perfect for memorable keepsakes from your trip.

Recreation

Kaikoura Golf Club, located 4.8km from South Bay, offers a relaxing outdoor experience surrounded by stunning landscapes. Enjoy a round of golf while soaking in the coastal views and fresh air, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature.

Adventure

Embark on the Peninsula Walkway, a scenic hiking trail 1.6km from South Bay, where you can immerse yourself in stunning coastal views and wildlife. For a more challenging adventure, trek to Ohau Falls, located 24.1km away, and enjoy the breathtaking waterfalls in a picturesque setting.

Nightlife

In South Bay, Kaikōura, the Fyffe View Ranch Adventure Park offers an exciting arcadeAdventureZone experience, located 9.7km away. With its lively adventure vibes, it's a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a fun-filled evening under the stars.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Bay

To save money on your visit to South Bay, consider travelling during the cheaper months of May to June and August, avoiding the peak season from December to February. Book your accommodation at least a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Stay on a Wednesday for the best rates, and combine hotel bookings with flights and activities for added savings. For transport, make use of public buses, or consider an overnight campervan for more affordable accommodation options. Explore free activities in the area to keep costs down while enjoying the stunning scenery.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around South Bay are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around South Bay is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around South Bay is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around South Bay is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your South Bay hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Best time to go to South Bay

The best time to visit South Bay is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high 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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
February63.3°F (17.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
March60.3°F (15.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
June48.2°F (9.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
July46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
September50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High

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Frequently asked questions

What is South Bay like?
Travellers will be sure to enjoy their time in Kaikōura's South Bay neighbourhood.
Where is the best hotel for a stay in South Bay?
Based on our traveller data, Bay Cottages is one of the top choices for your stay in South Bay. This cottage offers free parking and private patios. Other good choices for your stay in the area include Kaikoura Fishing Retreat, not just for fishing!!! and Beach front cottage.
How many hotels will I find in South Bay?
When you want to put your feet up after a day of exploring the sights in Kaikōura, you can choose from 13 Expedia hotels and other accommodation options in South Bay.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in South Bay, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most hotel room reservations are fully refundable if you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your check-in date. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might be able to still cancel and receive a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Plug in your dates, click on "Search", then filter by "fully refundable" to view top deals in South Bay.
What is there to do in this Kaikōura neighbourhood?
Fyffe House, Peninsula Walkway and Point Kean Seal Colony are just a few of the places to visit in and around South Bay. When you're sightseeing in Kaikōura, Kaikoura District Museum and Kaikoura Museum are also worth a stop.