South Island Hotels from from S$85

Top reasons to visit South Island

• Stunning Landscapes: South Island boasts breathtaking scenery, from serene lakes to dramatic coastlines, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Adventure Activities: Enjoy thrilling experiences like heli biking, skiing, and enchanting hiking trails that cater to all adventure seekers.
• Charming Towns: Discover vibrant cities like Christchurch and the picturesque towns of Queenstown and Wanaka, rich in culture and local charm.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in soothing hot springs, offering a perfect blend of relaxation amidst nature's beauty.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, catering to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Whether you're seeking a thrilling ski vacation, a relaxing hot spring retreat, or adventure-filled experiences, you'll discover the best hotels in Queenstown and beyond. With stunning landscapes and a wealth of activities, South Island's lodging caters to every traveller's needs, ensuring an unforgettable stay.

• The Godley Hotel: Nestled 11.3km from South Island, The Godley Hotel is a 3-star accommodation that promises an adventurous getaway. With its hot spring-themed offerings, guests can indulge in the nearby natural hot springs, perfect for relaxation after a day of excitement. The hotel caters to thrill-seekers with a range of activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and horse riding, making it an excellent choice for those eager to explore the great outdoors.
• Lake Tekapo Village Motel: Also located 11.3km from South Island, the Lake Tekapo Village Motel boasts a 3.5-star rating and is ideal for travellers who seek a blend of adventure and nature. Featuring easy access to natural hot springs, this motel offers a serene retreat for those looking to unwind. Guests can enjoy kayaking, skiing, and biking, ensuring plenty of opportunities to immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings. The combination of adventure sports and a hot spring experience makes this accommodation a top choice for nature enthusiasts.
• Lakes Edge Holiday Park: Situated 11.3km away from South Island, Lakes Edge Holiday Park is an eco-certified lodging option perfect for environmentally conscious travellers. This park promotes sustainable practices while providing a comfortable stay amidst nature. The serene setting and commitment to eco-friendly initiatives make it an ideal retreat for those looking to connect with the environment. With its focus on sustainability, guests can enjoy a guilt-free getaway while relishing the beauty of the South Island.

Where to stay near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking stunning scenery. Explore the serene locations of Queenstown and Wanaka, where breathtaking landscapes abound. The West Coast offers dramatic coastlines and hidden gems, perfect for romantic getaways or family-friendly adventures. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of cities like Christchurch, where friendly locals and charming neighbourhoods enhance your stay. Whether it's the picturesque views or the welcoming vibe, South Island promises an unforgettable travel experience.

• Lake Tekapo: Nestled approximately 11.3km from South Island, Lake Tekapo is a picturesque suburb famed for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors flock here year-round, with peak seasons in April and December to January. This tranquil destination is perfect for a romantic getaway, offering a range of experiences from serene lakeside strolls to rejuvenating spa treatments. The area boasts remarkable landmarks including the sparkling lake, a national state park, and breathtaking mountains, all of which create a stunning backdrop for memorable adventures.
• Tekapo: Located around 12.9km from South Island, Tekapo is another charming suburb that attracts visitors with its unseasonal traveller numbers. The peak season occurs from November to January, drawing those eager to immerse themselves in its natural beauty. Renowned for its outdoor activities and scenic views, Tekapo offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy the local spas and recreational areas while being surrounded by the splendid lake, national state park, and majestic mountains that define this enchanting locale.
• Mount Dobson: Situated approximately 16.1km from South Island, Mount Dobson is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. The suburb experiences a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peak arrivals in March and December to January. Known for its outdoor appeal and dramatic scenery, Mount Dobson provides ample opportunities for shopping, recreational pursuits, and access to scenic trails. With a stunning lake, towering mountains, and a national state park nearby, this destination promises an exhilarating experience for all who choose to explore its rugged beauty.

Things to do near South Island

South Island, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic getaways, boasting stunning scenery and a range of activities. Popular attractions include day trips, enchanting hiking trails, the skyline gondola, and thrilling heli biking. Visitors can also enjoy recreational areas and rejuvenating body treatments, alongside exhilarating experiences at ski fields, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers.

Shopping

Discover Christchurch's Westfield Riccarton, a vibrant shopping mall boasting a wide array of shops and eateries. In Queenstown, visit the Remarkables Market, a lively spot offering local crafts and gourmet treats, perfect for unique souvenirs from your South Island adventure.

Recreation

Lake Tekapō Regional Park offers tranquil surroundings for relaxation and wellness, perfect for leisurely walks and meditation. The Cairns Golf Course provides a scenic backdrop for golf enthusiasts, while McLean Park is ideal for sports lovers seeking an energetic atmosphere amidst the stunning South Island landscape.

Adventure

The Hooker Valley Track, 38.6km from South Island, offers breathtaking scenery and an exhilarating hiking experience amidst alpine landscapes. Roundhill Ski Area, situated 14.5km away, promises thrilling skiing and snow sports. For a serene adventure, explore the Governors Bush Walk Trailhead, located 37.0km away, enveloped in nature.

Nightlife

In South Island, the 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 to explore the cosmos, making both venues ideal for a memorable evening under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for South Island

For an economical trip to South Island, consider visiting during June or August to September, when accommodation prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Saturdays are the cheapest nights to stay, while Mondays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s filters to find budget-friendly, eco-certified options, and arrange your trip as a package to save further. Also, explore free outdoor activities such as hiking, which is abundant on the South Island, to maximise 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: Book your hotel around South Island about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and desired type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable rates and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• 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.

Find the best attractions near South Island

South Island, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. Visitors can explore stunning lakes, soothing hot springs, and charming churches, all while soaking up the region's rich culture. Notable attractions include the main island and the picturesque South Beach, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation amidst nature's beauty.

• Lake Tekapo: Experience the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, framed by the majestic Southern Alps. Known for its breathtaking scenery, it's a perfect spot for romantic strolls along the beach or outdoor adventures, surrounded by nature's beauty.
• Tekapo Springs: Unwind in the natural thermal pools at Tekapo Springs, where wellness meets relaxation. Set amidst picturesque landscapes, this outdoor hot spring destination offers a rejuvenating escape, ideal for soaking away your cares.
• Church of the Good Shepherd: Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a symbol of the region's heritage. Its stunning stone architecture and panoramic views of Lake Tekapo provide a serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection and appreciating local culture.

Best time to go to South Island

The best time to visit South Island is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. December is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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 arrive at several major airports. Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is situated 170.6km from South Island, with nearby accommodation options such as LyLo Christchurch, a 5-star hostel 966m away, and Sudima Christchurch City, a 5-star hotel 8.0km away, both offering various airport shuttle services. Queenstown International Airport (ZQN), located 186.7km away, features the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, just 1.3km from the airport, alongside The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments 4.8km away. Additionally, Hokitika Airport (HKK) is 88.0km away, with Rimu Lodge, a 5-star accommodation 6.4km from the airport, providing transport services.