Search Stewart Island hotels

Top reasons to visit Stewart Island

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Stewart Island boasts breathtaking landscapes, from lush forests to tranquil beaches, ideal for outdoor exploration.
• Unique Wildlife: Experience remarkable birdwatching opportunities and encounter native species in their natural habitat.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in hiking, scenic trails, and various outdoor activities that cater to adventure seekers.
• Cultural Experiences: Discover the island’s rich history through local museums and historic buildings that reflect its heritage.
• Charming Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from cosy lodges to budget-friendly backpackers, providing local hospitality.

Find great hotels near Stewart Island

Stewart Island offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, from charming lodges to budget-friendly backpackers. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a base for adventure, you'll find hotels that cater to every traveler's needs. With stunning natural beauty surrounding you, the island's lodgings provide a perfect blend of comfort and local hospitality. Discover the best reviews and recommendations to make your stay on Stewart Island truly memorable.

• Bay Motel: Located 25.7km from Stewart Island, the 3-star Bay Motel offers a comfortable stay with a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. Enjoy a delicious breakfast with continental options available. For outdoor enthusiasts, the motel provides access to hiking and biking nearby, along with onsite fishing activities. Relax in your room while watching premium TV channels or satellite TV, ensuring an entertaining experience during your stay.

Where to stay near Stewart Island

Stewart Island, or Rakiura, offers an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and a range of accommodation options, this island is perfect for exploring its wild beauty. Discover the charming towns and picturesque scenery, all while soaking in the unique atmosphere of Southland. Whether you’re hiking through lush forests or enjoying the tranquil beaches, Stewart Island promises a memorable getaway in New Zealand's stunning natural playground.

• Stewart Island / Rakiura: Nestled to the south of New Zealand's South Island, Stewart Island / Rakiura is a scenic paradise renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures. As an island, it offers stunning landscapes, including rugged coastlines, lush forests, and pristine beaches. The peak travel season from November to January invites visitors to explore the Rakiura National Park, where hiking trails and native wildlife abound. With a moderate influx of tourists, this tranquil destination is perfect for those seeking peace and adventure in a breathtaking setting.
• Oban: Situated 25.7km from Stewart Island, Oban is a charming village that serves as a gateway to the island's captivating experiences. This quaint settlement draws visitors during its peak months of February to March and December, offering opportunities for birdwatching and exploration of local history at the nearby museum. The village is well-connected by ferry, making it an accessible base for adventurers eager to uncover the island's natural wonders and enjoy its scenic vistas.
• Halfmoon Bay: Located 24.1km from Stewart Island, Halfmoon Bay is a picturesque city known for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. With peak tourist activity occurring in February to March and December, visitors can indulge in birdwatching and enjoy the local ferry service. The area boasts close proximity to both the national park and historic buildings, offering a rich blend of nature and culture for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the region's unique heritage.

Things to do in Stewart Island

Shopping

In Stewart Island, visit the local shops and galleries, where you can find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs reflecting the island's natural beauty. The Stewart Island Community Centre also hosts a small market, offering local produce and artisan goods, perfect for memorable gifts.

Recreation

At the Stewart Island Wellness Centre, unwind with holistic treatments and soothing massage therapies that harness local natural ingredients. Explore the tranquil surroundings with guided nature walks, connecting with the island's breathtaking scenery, and enjoy mindfulness sessions designed to rejuvenate your spirit in this peaceful haven.

Adventure

Explore Stewart Island's stunning landscapes on the Rakiura Track, a multi-day hike showcasing native bush and wildlife. For a unique experience, join a guided kayaking tour in Paterson Inlet, allowing you to discover hidden coves and spot local fauna up close.

Nightlife

Enjoy a relaxed evening at the South Sea Hotel, where you can share a meal and sip local brews. For a more intimate setting, check out the Rakiura Lodge bar, offering a cozy atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploring the stunning island.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stewart Island

For a budget-friendly trip to Stewart Island, consider visiting between June and August when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your stay about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on sites like Expedia can help you save further. Mondays tend to be the cheapest days for accommodation, while Sundays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Enjoy exploring the island's natural beauty with free activities like hiking and birdwatching.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Stewart Island are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Stewart Island 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 Stewart Island is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Stewart Island is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Stewart Island accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Stewart Island

Stewart Island offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery, perfect for a memorable vacation. Explore national parks, historic buildings, and local museums that showcase the region's rich culture and history. Whether you're seeking thrilling activities or a tranquil escape, Stewart Island has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

• Rakiura National Park: Located 16.1km from Stewart Island, Rakiura National Park offers stunning outdoor adventures amidst breathtaking scenery. Explore its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and well-marked trails that cater to different fitness levels, making it an excellent spot for both casual walkers and avid hikers.
• Stone House: Just 3.2km away from Stewart Island, the historic Stone House reflects the rich cultural heritage of the area. Built in the 19th century, this charming structure provides insight into the island’s past and showcases the craftsmanship of early settlers.
• Rakiura Environmental Centre: Also located 3.2km from Stewart Island, the Rakiura Environmental Centre serves as an educational hub. It highlights the unique ecosystems of the region and promotes conservation efforts, making it a great place to learn about the natural environment of Stewart Island.

Best time to go to Stewart Island

The best time to visit Stewart Island is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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	Slightly High	Average
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
April	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low
July	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average
August	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
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 Stewart Island

Flying into Stewart Island is convenient with two major airports nearby. Invercargill Airport (IVC) is situated 72.4km away, with several excellent accommodation choices such as the 4.5-star Homestead Villa Motel, Balmoral Lodge Motel, and Shelby Motor Lodge, all located 3.2km from the airport. Additionally, Stewart Island (SZS-Ryans Creek) is only 24.1km away, featuring hotels like the 3-star Bay Motel and Anchorstone guesthouse, both within 3.2km of the airport. Transport services to Stewart Island include 24-hour shuttles and free airport transfers, ensuring easy access for visitors to explore this stunning destination.