12 Stewart Island accommodation options that you’ll love
Are you on the hunt for the best Stewart Island accommodation that will make your trip south a success? If so, read on for our top recommendations!
Stewart Island is known for its wild and beautiful weather, waves, and untouched bushland, making it a popular destination for hikers and wildlife lovers.
As 85% of the island is considered a national park, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to trails, gorgeous flora, and local fauna.
Whether you want to spend your time on Stewart Island lounging on the sprawling beaches or want to book a dedicated wildlife tour while you’re here, you’re bound to need somewhere to rest your weary head at the end of the night!
So, are you ready to uncover our top Stewart Island accommodation picks for your next trip?
We thought so!
The Best Stewart Island Accommodation Options
Jo & Andy’s Bed & Breakfast ($)
Those on the hunt for affordable Stewart Island accommodation with friendly hosts will appreciate everything that Jo & Andy’s Bed & Breakfast has to offer. They pride themselves on offering warm and personal service to every guest.
You can borrow books and music from their dedicated library, grab free tea and coffee at any time.
During the wintertime, you’ll also benefit from central heating throughout the property. It really is needed in the deep south!
When you’re ready to explore, this B&B is perfectly located for reaching the centre of Stewart Island, the beach, and the native bush if you fancy a hike.
Be warned though, there’s only 1 twin and 1 double room available, so you’ll need to reserve quickly if you plan on staying here.
As the prices are super competitive (typically between $60 and $100 a night for two people), it’s easy to see why rooms sell like hotcakes.
22 Main Road, Stewart Island, Oban 9846, New Zealand
Stewart Island Backpackers ($ – $$)
Stewart Island Backpackers is amongst the cheapest Stewart Island accommodation around. In fact, prices start at an incredible $39 per night for a bed, and camping is an option too.
They offer a selection of double and twin rooms for a slightly higher price, but we think their dorm rooms are an excellent way to travel to the South Island if you’re strapped for cash.
Don’t worry – there are no bunks here and the rooms never sleep more than four to prevent overcrowding.
While you’re at Stewart Island Backpackers, you’ll have access to a communal kitchen, shared bathrooms and a pleasant lounge area. These spaces provide guests with comfortable spaces to relax and meet other travellers.
There’s also a fantastic courtyard space that’s ideal for spotting native New Zealand birdlife (especially kākā parrots!) and kicking back with a good book.
Although the Wi-Fi policy isn’t as generous as other Stewart Island accommodation options (you’ll get 200MB free per stay), it should be enough for basic browsing during your stay.
18 Ayr Street, Oban 9818, New Zealand
South Sea Hotel ($ – $$)
We simply couldn’t make a list of the best Stewart Island accommodation without mentioning the South Sea Hotel!
It’s considered the only “official” hotel on the island and boasts incredible waterfront views, excellent pub grub and a collection of comfortable rooms.
In addition to the double and twin rooms (that have shared bathrooms), you’ll also have access to a communal lounge that overlooks the harbour and an onsite bar.
If you’d prefer a private bathroom and breakfast-making facilities, you’re better off booking one of the motel rooms that are just across from the main building.
The prices here are super affordable, and you’ll be just 2 minutes from the ferry terminal and 1 minute from the iconic beachfront.
As a result, the South Sea Hotel is our top budget-friendly pick when it comes to Stewart Island accommodation options.
26 Elgin Terrace, Oban 9846
Bay Motel ($$)
If you’re looking for comfortable budget-friendly Stewart Island accommodation, consider the search over with the Bay Motel.
Located just minutes from Oban town centre, this is the perfect base to explore everything that the island has to offer.
They have a range of accommodation options, including studios and 1-bedroom units that come complete with a spa bath (perfect if you’re feeling bougie).
It’s worth noting that only some of the studios have cooking facilities included, so make sure you’ve done your research before booking.
However, you’ll be pleased to know that every single room offers free Wi-Fi, heating, tea and coffee-making facilities and stunning views over the bay or the bush (depending on which side of the motel you book).
A stay here is relatively no-frills, but the Bay Motel offers everything you need for a comfortable and affordable stay on Stewart Island.
9 Dundee Street, Oban 9818
Kaka Retreat ($$ – $$$)
Tucked amidst the stunning native bushland, Kaka Retreat is set in a quiet and peaceful spot. Despite being tucked away on a remote road, Stewart Island’s restaurants, attractions and shops are just minutes away.
What’s more, you’re just a 6-minute walk from the nearest beach and the main wharf where some of the cruises start!
Inside this quaint motel, you’ll find flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes, and excellent free Wi-Fi that stretches throughout the property.
You can choose between 2 and 3-bedroom cottages, a queen studio unit, or a superior studio suite during your stay.
Each one is equally comfortable, but the superior suites is our pick for families with children as they offer way more breathing room and can sleep up to 4.
7 Miro Crescent, Oban 9818
Glendaruel Bed and Breakfast ($$$)
If you’re a fan of B&Bs, then we highly recommend checking out Glendaruel Bed and Breakfast on your next trip to Stewart Island.
Tucked between Halfmoon Bay and Golden Bay, this stunning slice of paradise offers incredible views of the waterfront.
Guests are treated to a daily cooked or continental breakfast, including plenty of gluten and dairy-free options (which is always a win if you’re travelling with dietary restrictions).
Each room is also cosy and comfortable, and comes with a private ensuite bathroom. Oh, and you’ll also find an alarm clock, plenty of power sockets and a hairdryer in the bathroom.
Perched just 10 minutes from the centre of Oban, it’s a solid choice for anyone who appreciates friendly hosting and thoughtful amenities.
38 Golden Bay Road, Oban 9846
Anchorstone ($$$)
Those visiting Stewart Island with wildlife spotting in mind will certainly want to add Anchorstone to their Stewart Island accommodation shortlist.
Located right on Halfmoon Bay, this property is ideal for birdwatching, deer-spotting, and everything in between.
Feel free to sit on the terrace and make use of the large BBQ or spend time enjoying the comfortable bed linens, flat-screen TV, and slippers that are provided in each guest room.
There are only three self-contained cabins available to book, so you’ll need to be on the ball if you want to take advantage of the top-notch amenities and stunning views over Rakiura National Park.
191 Horseshoe Bay Road, Oban 9846
Sails Ashore Lodge ($$$$)
If you’re on the hunt for a property that offers homely luxury, then you can’t go wrong with Sails Ashore Lodge.
Offering incredible views over Halfmoon Bay and all the amenities you could ever want, this popular spot is just 4 minutes from the glimmering waterfront.
When you enter your room, you’ll instantly be enchanted by the rimu timber construction, muted décor and unique artwork that lines the walls.
Throw in comfortable beds, electric blankets, a large onsite library of books and homemade cookies each day, and it’s easy to see why this Stewart Island accommodation option is frequently booked solid.
11 View Street, Oban 9846
Church Hill Lodge and Restaurant ($$$$)
Church Hill Lodge and Restaurant is one of the most popular Stewart Island accommodation options for first-time visitors, as it offers truly incredible views over the waterfront and a wonderful restaurant (that is only open to guests).
The main amenities here include room service, a stunning garden and terrace area, free Wi-Fi, a washing machine and a fridge, and of course that onsite restaurant, serving local produce. You’ll also have access to a flat-screen TV and DVD player if you fancy a quiet night in.
If you’d prefer to live in the lap of luxury as you travel around New Zealand, book into the Foveaux Room. It comes with its own outdoor hot tub!
The property is just 9 minutes from the beach on foot, making it an ideal location for sun worshippers.
It’s not an enormous property, but the self-contained cottages can sleep up to seven, with the smaller accommodations sleeping families of four and couples with room to spare.
36 Kamahi Road, Oban 9846
Stewart Island Lodge ($$$$)
Stewart Island Lodge remains one of the most popular properties on the island, and it’s a wonderful base that’s nestled right on the hillside amongst the native bush.
Before we delve into this place, we need to talk about the views. Not only will you get sensational vistas over Halfmoon Bay and Foveaux Strait, but you may even spot native birds flitting around the balconies and through the trees during your visit.
This place boasts six king and twin bedrooms, a communal lounge area and sprawling gardens that you can spend hours getting lost in.
You’ll also get a free transfer from the ferry terminal, a complimentary continental breakfast each morning and access to tea and coffee-making facilities in your bedroom.
Located just 5 minutes to the main village area of Oban, the convenience factor couldn’t be better at this Stewart Island accommodation spot.
It is on the pricey side though, so is generally best suited to travellers looking to treat themselves.
14 Nichol Street, Oban 9818
We hope that this list of the best Stewart Island accommodation spots has been helpful.
Have you visited any of these places before?
We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!
