Akaroa Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Akaroa which includes mountains
Akaroa which includes mountains
Akaroa which includes a river or creek, tranquil scenes and a sunset
Akaroa featuring a house
Akaroa featuring swimming and general coastal views as well as a large group of people

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.

The Annual Holiday Sale

Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save.
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 17 Mar to 18 Mar
AU$150
17 Mar - 18 Mar
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (369 reviews)
Yes

Reviewed on 5 Mar 2026

Tresori Motor Lodge
La Rochelle Motel

La Rochelle Motel

4 out of 5
1 Rue Grehan Akaroa
The price is AU$179 per night from 7 Apr to 8 Apr
AU$179
7 Apr - 8 Apr
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (317 reviews)
The room was nice yet cozy and I loved the private patio garden and bubbling brook. We enjoyed the shower and restroom heater as well! Nic kindly allowed us to leave our car parked past checkout time for our dolphin swim. She was so kind and even allowed us to borrow a beach towel even though we ...

Reviewed on 10 Mar 2026

La Rochelle Motel
Akaroa Criterion Motel

Akaroa Criterion Motel

4.5 out of 5
75 Rue Jolie Akaroa
The price is AU$186 per night from 13 Mar to 14 Mar
AU$186
13 Mar - 14 Mar
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (609 reviews)
Very good location

Reviewed on 27 Feb 2026

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 beach apartment in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (145 reviews)
Wonderful locale. Beautiful views! Very clean, too.

Reviewed on 21 Feb 2026

Akaroa Village Inn
SEACLUSION: Great Water Views, Wonderful for Big Families & Groups

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

Akaroa Akaroa
Stay at this family-friendly holiday home in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness centre and a garden. Popular attractions Artisans Gallery and Akaroa Museum ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (137 reviews)
In the aftermath of an extreme weather event, i cannot fault the comms from Annette as we worked through our options. Turns out that everything was all good to go for our stay and our group of six had a great time in Akaroa. The house had everything we needed, instructions were clear and we left ...

Reviewed on 22 Feb 2026

SEACLUSION: Great Water Views, Wonderful for Big Families & Groups
Children's Bay Exclusive - Akaroa

Children's Bay Exclusive - Akaroa

Akaroa Canterbury
Stay at this holiday home in Akaroa. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and a garden. Popular attractions Artisans Gallery and Akaroa Museum are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (32 reviews)
Stunning views and very comfortable home.

Reviewed on 22 Dec 2025

Children's Bay Exclusive - Akaroa
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

Cities near Akaroa

Explore a world of travel with Expedia