A calm lake surrounded by lush green hills and mountains.

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Our top choices for Drift Bay hotels

Kamana Lakehouse

Kamana Lakehouse
4.5 star property
Fernhill
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (655 reviews)
"Great stay!!!! Will definitely be back :)"
Australia
Roxanne
The price is AU$370
includes taxes & fees
22 July - 23 July
Kamana Lakehouse

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
5.0 star property
Kawarau Falls
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Very friendly and helpful staff. The hotel is right on the lakefront with beautiful views. The breakfast buffet had lots of options for vegetarians as well."
Australia
Kumaree
The price is AU$370
includes taxes & fees
16 July - 17 July
Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Queenstown by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Queenstown by IHG
4.0 star property
Queenstown City Centre
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"GREAT breakfast, nice clean and milers rooms, staff was super helpful and the location was superb!"
United States
Lidia
The price is AU$320
includes taxes & fees
19 July - 20 July
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Queenstown by IHG

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central
4.0 star property
Queenstown City Centre
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,013 reviews)
"Great location"
Australia
Sophie
The price is AU$316
includes taxes & fees
19 July - 20 July
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

QT Queenstown

QT Queenstown
5.0 star property
Queenstown City Centre
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,000 reviews)
"great hotel and location "
Canada
BENJAMIN
The price is AU$444
includes taxes & fees
23 July - 24 July
QT Queenstown

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
4.0 star property
Queenstown City Centre
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Great friendly staff, valet service is great. Comfy beds and great location A+++"
Australia
Cem
The price is AU$316
includes taxes & fees
23 July - 24 July
Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Millennium Hotel Queenstown

Millennium Hotel Queenstown
4.5 star property
Queenstown City Centre
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Great hotel with helpful and pleasant staff"
Australia
joanne
Millennium Hotel Queenstown

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
4.5 star property
Queenstown
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,031 reviews)
"Nice stay"
Australia
Khevana
The price is AU$263
includes taxes & fees
16 July - 17 July
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
4.0 star property
Frankton
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,583 reviews)
"Great hotel!"
United States
Valerie
The price is AU$202
includes taxes & fees
17 July - 18 July
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

Crowne Plaza Hotel Queenstown by IHG

Crowne Plaza Hotel Queenstown by IHG
4.5 star property
Queenstown City Centre
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Excellent staff and fantastic location."
Australia
Billy
The price is AU$384
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Crowne Plaza Hotel Queenstown by IHG

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Sudima Queenstown Five Mile
4.5 star property
Frankton
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (795 reviews)
"Great location as central/near to all local activities"
United States
Andrew
The price is AU$222
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Sudima Queenstown Five Mile

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
5.0 star property
Queenstown
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,561 reviews)
"Great stay!"
Australia
Kim
The price is AU$219
includes taxes & fees
6 July - 7 July
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Scenic Suites Queenstown

Scenic Suites Queenstown
4.0 star property
Queenstown City Centre
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Apartment was large and awesome. Comfy bed. Staff very helpful. Would recommend staying there. "
Australia
Sue
The price is AU$295
includes taxes & fees
19 July - 20 July
Scenic Suites Queenstown

Mercure Queenstown Resort

Mercure Queenstown Resort
4.0 star property
Fernhill
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"Very friendly staff and free hot breakfast. Great location."
United States
Lanchun
The price is AU$250
includes taxes & fees
22 July - 23 July
Mercure Queenstown Resort

Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery

Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery
5.0 star property
Queenstown City Centre
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Great stay. "
Australia
Tristan
The price is AU$363
includes taxes & fees
21 July - 22 July
Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGallery

The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments
5.0 star property
Queenstown
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,000 reviews)
"It was absolutely amazing place to stay in Queenstown. Not only The room was super comfortable but also the restaurant was super nice. We had a great time there."
Japan
Aiko
The price is AU$502
includes taxes & fees
15 July - 16 July
The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel

Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
5.0 star property
Queenstown City Centre
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (484 reviews)
"Room was spotless, staff went above and beyond, breakfast 5*. "
United Kingdom
Alison
The price is AU$485
includes taxes & fees
1 Aug - 2 Aug
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel

Balmoral Lodge

Balmoral Lodge
4.0 star property
Queenstown City Centre
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (143 reviews)
"Absolutely stunning property and the views were incredible."
United States
Nicole
Balmoral Lodge

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Queenstown Lakeview

Hampshire Holiday Parks - Queenstown Lakeview
3.0 star property
Queenstown City Centre
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (562 reviews)
"Great location. Convenient parking."
Australia
Jacqui
The price is AU$213
includes taxes & fees
24 July - 25 July
Hampshire Holiday Parks - Queenstown Lakeview

The Dairy Hotel Queenstown, A Naumi Chapter

The Dairy Hotel Queenstown, A Naumi Chapter
4.5 star property
Queenstown City Centre
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (378 reviews)
"Great location, nice rooms! Perfect place to stay in Queenstown for a couple."
United States
Paul
The price is AU$333
includes taxes & fees
16 July - 17 July
The Dairy Hotel Queenstown, A Naumi Chapter
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.
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Learn more about Drift Bay

Check out the local area in Drift Bay as you venture to sights like Lake Wakatipu.

A calm lake surrounded by lush green hills and mountains.
Photo by Pamela Fiorelli
Open Photo by Pamela Fiorelli

Top Drift Bay Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Drift Bay

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Drift Bay?
The best area to stay in Drift Bay is generally along Drift Bay Road, particularly in the sections closest to the lakefront, as this offers immediate access to the water and the area's main attractions.

Drift Bay Road is the primary thoroughfare, winding along the edge of Lake Wakatipu. This stretch is characterised by luxury lodges and private holiday homes, many offering stunning lake views and direct access to the water. The area is known for its peaceful setting and outdoor activities.

Couples seeking a romantic and secluded escape will find this area ideal. Many of the properties here offer private facilities like hot tubs overlooking the lake, fine dining options, and opportunities for lakeside strolls or kayaking directly from their accommodation. It's a superb spot for those who appreciate natural beauty and privacy.

Families looking for a high-quality retreat will also appreciate the options along Drift Bay Road. Properties often feature spacious grounds, private beaches, and easy access to activities like paddleboarding or fishing.
When is the best time to go to Drift Bay?
The best time to visit Drift Bay is during the summer months, from December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

During this period, you can expect long daylight hours, with temperatures often ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This is superb for enjoying the lake activities like swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding, and exploring the walking and cycling trails around the bay. The local vineyards are also in full swing during summer, offering tours and tastings.

Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are also lovely, offering milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Spring brings blooming flowers and budding vineyards, while autumn showcases stunning golden and red foliage, particularly around the hillsides surrounding the bay. These shoulder seasons are excellent for couples looking for a more relaxed trip, perhaps focusing on scenic drives, wine tasting, and gentle hikes.

Winter (June to August) transforms Drift Bay into a cooler, often snow-dusted landscape, particularly on the higher peaks. While it's not the best for water sports, it's a good time for those interested in crisp, clear days and perhaps proximity to skiing options in the wider Otago region.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Drift Bay.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Drift Bay with Expedia?
One Key™ — Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on Drift Bay hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Drift Bay?
Prices for hotels in Drift Bay often vary, but you can find a great deal from AU$124 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

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