Akaroa Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Akaroa which includes mountains
Akaroa
Akaroa featuring a house
Akaroa featuring swimming and general coastal views as well as a large group of people
Akaroa which includes tranquil scenes
A slice of paradise nestled in an ancient volcanic crater, Akaroa is a treasure trove of attractions.

The rarest of Akaroa's residents are the cute Hector’s dolphins who call the waters of this natural harbour home. Say “kia ora” to them while taking a peek at the magical coves, caves and coastline on an unforgettable cruise or kayak. Back on dry land step inside the town’s heritage-listed buildings, from the days of French and British settlement, to find boutiques and cafés. Beyond the town there are dairy farms, wineries and the winding coastal walk of the Banks Track.

Akaroa Waterfront Motels
Akaroa Waterfront Motels
4 out of 5
56-64 Jolie Rue, Akaroa
The price is AU$157 per night from 7 May to 8 May
AU$157
includes taxes & fees
7 May - 8 May
Stay at this 4-star beach motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (489 reviews)
"Beautiful location and what you need for a nice getaway is all you need here."

Reviewed on 14 Apr. 2025

Akaroa Waterfront Motels
Tresori Motor Lodge
Tresori Motor Lodge
4.5 out of 5
Cnr Rue Jolie & Church St, Akaroa
The price is AU$150 per night from 4 May to 5 May
AU$150
includes taxes & fees
4 May - 5 May
Stay at this 4.5-star motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (327 reviews)
"Large room and helpful staff"

Reviewed on 2 Apr. 2025

Tresori Motor Lodge
Akaroa Criterion Motel
Akaroa Criterion Motel
4.5 out of 5
75 Rue Jolie, Akaroa
The price is AU$166 per night from 4 May to 5 May
AU$166
includes taxes & fees
4 May - 5 May
Stay at this 4.5-star eco-certified motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (563 reviews)
"Lovely room with view over the lake"

Reviewed on 7 Apr. 2025

Akaroa Criterion Motel
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.
Akaroa Village Inn
Akaroa Village Inn
3 out of 5
81 Beach Road, Akaroa, Canterbury
Stay at this 3-star beach apartment in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (101 reviews)
"A beautiful room with a great view of the bay. The area was perfect and within walking distance of restaurants and a little beach since this is right in town. Also within walking distance of hiking trails."

Reviewed on 18 Mar. 2025

Akaroa Village Inn
Akaroa on the Beach Apartments
Akaroa on the Beach Apartments
3.5 out of 5
229 Beach Road, Akaroa
Stay at this 3.5-star apartment in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Akaroa Lighthouse and Akaroa Wharf are located ...
9/10 Wonderful! (66 reviews)
"Great wee spot, basic but all we needed for a comfortable stay. Clean, tidy, good location, beautiful view!"

Reviewed on 30 Dec. 2024

Akaroa on the Beach Apartments
SEACLUSION: Great Water Views, Wonderful for Big Families & Groups
SEACLUSION: Great Water Views, Wonderful for Big Families & Groups
Akaroa
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Akaroa. Enjoy a fitness center, a garden, and a pool table. Popular attractions Giant's House and Artisans ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (79 reviews)
Family & friends wedding accomodation.
"Lovely view over Akaroa Harbour from upstairs. We enjoyed our stay. The house was large and just accommodated us all. A couple of wee things like some coffee pods and the beds made as we paid for the linen and towel option would have been good. Overall our stay was very comfortable thanks."

Reviewed on 1 Apr. 2025

SEACLUSION: Great Water Views, Wonderful for Big Families & Groups
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.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Reviews of Akaroa

4.7
Top destination
5 - Excellent
35
5 - Excellent 78%
4 - Good
6
4 - Good 13%
3 - Okay
4
3 - Okay 9%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

The water was smooth, calm, and beautifully reflective in the evening

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Really enjoyed harbour cruise

5/5 - Excellent

Jenny

Akaroa is a must see if you visit NZ's South Island. The views are amazing. Take a drive up Lighthouse road. The vistas are spectacular!

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

was particularly looking for a kiwi christmas tree decoration- only one shop had something remote like the kiwi bird - thought shops would have more Christmas decorations. A true French bakery?? The smoked salmon shop was closed

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Can't wait to return. We had a wonderful trip on lake to see the amazing dolphins and other wildlife on the rocks around the lake leading out to the sea. Loved seeing the sheep grazing on the green hills too and the bird calls. Nature at its best

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

The most stunning scenery. Well worth a visit

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