Find hotels in South Island from ￥7,460

Top reasons to visit South Island

• Stunning Scenery: South Island boasts breathtaking landscapes, from picturesque beaches to majestic mountains.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like hiking, skiing, biking, and diving in diverse natural settings.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in rejuvenating hot springs, perfect for relaxation after outdoor pursuits.
• Charming Neighborhoods: Explore vibrant towns like Queenstown, offering friendly atmospheres and local culture.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels for a memorable stay.

Find great hotels near South Island

Experience the breathtaking beauty of South Island, New Zealand, with a range of exceptional accommodations to fit every traveler's needs. From cozy bed and breakfasts to well-appointed hotels, you’ll find options that cater to adventure seekers, ski enthusiasts, and those looking to unwind in hot spring-themed retreats. Notable choices include the Aden Motel, Airport Palms Motel, and Akaroa Coastal Studio, ensuring a memorable stay on your vacation.

• The Godley Hotel: Nestled in a scenic location 11.3km from South Island, The Godley Hotel offers a unique hot spring adventure experience perfect for thrill-seeking travelers. This 3-star hotel features convenient access to natural hot springs, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of outdoor activities. Guests can engage in various adventure sports, including windsurfing, snow tubing, waterskiing, horseback riding, and downhill skiing. With its blend of relaxation and excitement, The Godley Hotel is a great choice for those looking to unwind while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand.
• Lake Tekapo Village Motel: Located 11.3km from South Island, the Lake Tekapo Village Motel is a charming 3.5-star accommodation that caters to adventure enthusiasts and ski lovers alike. This property also boasts access to nearby natural hot springs, perfect for a soothing soak after an active day. The motel offers convenient shuttle and lift services for skiing, alongside adventure sports such as cross-country skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. With its cozy atmosphere and proximity to thrilling outdoor activities, this motel is an ideal base for an adventurous getaway.
• Lakes Edge Holiday Park: Situated 11.3km from South Island, Lakes Edge Holiday Park is an eco-certified haven for environmentally conscious travelers. This charming motel emphasizes sustainable practices while providing comfortable lodging amidst stunning natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy a variety of recreational activities that promote an eco-friendly lifestyle. With its commitment to sustainability and the serene beauty of the area, Lakes Edge Holiday Park makes for a perfect choice for those seeking a green vacation experience in New Zealand.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. Discover breathtaking views while strolling along picturesque beaches or exploring the vibrant downtown Queenstown. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere in charming neighborhoods and experience the idyllic vibe of family-friendly destinations. Whether you're relaxing at an acre oasis or taking scenic drives down Beach Road, South Island promises unforgettable adventures and serene landscapes that will leave you in awe.

• Lake Tekapo: Nestled approximately 11.3km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its breathtaking outdoor scenery and romantic ambiance. Visitors flock to this charming suburb primarily between April and the holiday months of December to January, with fewer tourists in May, August, and October. The area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to a stunning lake, national state park, and majestic mountains. Travelers can indulge in various activities, including body treatments and spa experiences, or simply relax in the recreational areas, making it a perfect spot for both adventure and relaxation.
• Tekapo: Located around 12.9km from South Island, Tekapo shares a similar allure with its picturesque landscape and serene outdoor experiences. The peak tourist season runs from November to January, with a slight dip in visitor numbers during May to June and August. This suburb is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway or families looking for adventure, with its proximity to a beautiful lake, national state park, and mountains. Popular activities include spa treatments and enjoying the recreational spots, ensuring a memorable experience surrounded by nature's beauty.
• Mount Dobson: Situated about 16.1km from South Island, Mount Dobson is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise that attracts visitors year-round, peaking in March and during the holiday season of December to January. Known for its adventurous spirit, this suburb offers a mix of recreational areas, shopping spots, and access to scenic trails. Surrounded by a stunning lake, majestic mountains, and a national state park, Mount Dobson is perfect for those seeking a blend of excitement and breathtaking scenery.

Things to do near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking scenic getaways. Enjoy a variety of activities, including visiting diving shops, exploring biking trails, and playing golf at top-notch courses. Don't miss the chance to relax in recreational areas or indulge in body treatments, and for winter sports lovers, the ski fields provide thrilling adventures. Embrace the beauty and excitement that South Island has to offer.

Shopping

In Christchurch, visit Westfield Riccarton for a variety of stores and dining options. For unique finds, head to the Arts Centre, where local artisans sell handcrafted gifts. In Queenstown, browse the Queenstown Mall for souvenirs and outdoor gear amid stunning mountain views.

Recreation

At Lake Tekapō Regional Park, immerse yourself in nature's tranquility while enjoying serene walks and breathtaking views. The Cairns Golf Course offers a perfect mix of sport and scenery, ideal for golf enthusiasts. McLean Park provides a vibrant atmosphere for sports lovers, ensuring an active and engaging experience.

Adventure

At Roundhill Ski Area, enjoy exhilarating skiing and snowboarding on pristine slopes surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. The Cowans Hill Walkway offers a scenic hiking experience through stunning landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For a more immersive adventure, explore the Governors Bush Walk Trailhead, where nature and tranquility await.

Nightlife

In South Island, Mount John Observatory offers a unique nightlife experience with its stunning stargazing opportunities and vibrant atmosphere. Similarly, the Dark Sky Project provides an enchanting setting for night sky observation, making both venues perfect for those seeking an unforgettable evening under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

To save money on your vacation in South Island, New Zealand, consider visiting during the shoulder months of June or August to September for lower prices on accommodation. Book hotels about a month in advance or check last-minute deals on sites like Expedia, which also allows you to filter by budget and hotel type. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Mondays tend to be pricier. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities to maximize savings, and explore free outdoor activities to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around South Island are June and August to September, 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 Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around South Island is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around South Island is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations on the South Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore beautiful lakes, rejuvenating hot springs, and charming churches, making it an ideal destination for those seeking cultural experiences and relaxation. Whether you're hiking through picturesque landscapes or soaking in a hot spring, South Island promises unforgettable experiences that cater to nature lovers and couples alike.

• Lake Tekapo: Experience the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Enjoy romantic strolls along the beach, or partake in outdoor activities like hiking and photography, making it a perfect getaway for couples and nature lovers alike.
• Tekapo Springs: Unwind at Tekapo Springs, a serene hot spring destination offering wellness and relaxation. With picturesque outdoor settings, you can soak in the mineral-rich waters while taking in the stunning views of the Southern Alps.
• Church of the Good Shepherd: Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a charming stone church that embodies the region's cultural heritage. Its stunning backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the mountains makes it a popular spot for photography and reflection.

Best time to go to South Island

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

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	46.8°F (8.200000000000001°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to South Island

When visiting South Island, New Zealand, you can fly into several major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is 170.6km from South Island, with nearby hotels like the 5-star LyLo Christchurch, just 966m away, and Sudima Christchurch City, located 8.0km from the airport, both offering shuttle services. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) is 186.7km away, with excellent accommodations such as the 5-star Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, only 1.3km from the airport. Lastly, Dunedin International Airport (DUD) is 226.9km from South Island, with options like Bella Vista Motel Mosgiel, 12.9km away, providing comfort for travelers.