Covering a large swathe of the South Island, spectacular Tasman borders the wine regions of Marlborough, the city of Nelson and the West Coast Region. With the Tasman Sea glittering to one side, and the Tasman Mountains dominating the skyline in the other, this is a wonderfully wild, rugged landscape, perfect for outdoorsy explorers and wildlife enthusiasts. You’ll find the best places to stay in Tasman nestled amidst vast forests, on clifftops or close to big beaches. Often small and intimate, our selection of top spots offer a plethora of activities for guests of all ages.

Active explorers will delight in discovering the Abel Tasman National Park — the smallest in New Zealand — the Nelson Lakes National Park and the Kahurangi National Park. Spend your days sailing between expansive beaches and craggy coves, kayaking with pods of dolphins, or picnicking on the sand. Verdant landscapes are criss-crossed with hiking, horse riding and mountain biking trails, too. The 60km Abel Tasman Coastal Track, for instance, is the most popular of NZ’s 'Great Walks’. Keen anglers can fish in the region’s many rivers or out at sea, whilst bird watchers will spot all manner of endemic birdlife in the National Parks, marshes and along riverbanks. Consider, too, vineyard tastings, historic walks around towns such as Mapua, and cultural tours to delve into the region’s long Maori heritage.

In addition to offering our favourite accommodation options, many of the best places to stay in Tasman also have terrific restaurants and soothing spas for relaxing after big days of adventure.

The Best Places to Stay in Tasman

For Boutique Chic

• The Waters offers four contemporary suites facing a private stretch of beach on the Kina Peninsula. Brilliant for romantic couples, this modern pad promises plenty of privacy, heaps of activities — including wine tours and kayaking — as well as mesmerising ocean, vineyard and olive grove views. Very chic.
• Almyra Waterfront Lodge sits within three acres of gardens in Kina. Choose the suite, one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment with self-catering facilities, and spend your days hiking, cycling, kayaking and seeing the sights in nearby Nelson or Mapua. The swimming pool is ideal for relaxing.

For Active Families or Groups

• Abel Tasman Lodge is a popular collection of 15 chalets — some with two bedrooms — in Mārahau, moments from the Abel Tasman National Park. Interiors are bright and modern, with kitchens and garden-facing terraces. Shared Weber BBQs and a hot tub are lovely for relaxed evenings. Ideal for couples, friends or active families looking to kayak, swim, sail & hike.
• Awaroa Lodge is a remote eco-lodge on the coast in the Abel Tasman National Park. The 26 contemporary rooms and suites have outdoor decks, space for families and great views. Feast on produce from the organic kitchen garden after days of kayaking, sailing, dolphin and bird-spotting or feeding the tame eels with the little ones. Come by air or water — there are no roads to this family-friendly escape!
• Murchison Lodge is a welcoming, family-run B&B with four guestrooms in a charming house overlooking the Buller River. Book the whole place if travelling as a larger group, and spend your days fishing, hiking, rafting, kayaking and exploring the 4 acres of gardens. A relaxed, low-key spot for active nature lovers.

For Anglers

• Stonefly Lodge is a fly fishing haven, hidden within 150 acres of unspoilt forest. Book one of four rooms in the main lodge or reserve the entire Falcon Brae Villa for a group or family trip. Spend your days fly fishing, kayaking and hiking, before returning to the lodge for delicious cuisine crafted from homegrown produce. For nature lovers and fisherfolk.
• Eleven Owen River Lodge is an owner-run gem, boasting some of the best fly fishing for brown trout in the world. Close to 29 rivers and streams, and with tuition, equipment hire and heli-fishing easily arranged, anglers will be thrilled to escape to this intimate luxury lodge. There's also top-notch cuisine, cycling, hikes and farm tours. Wonderful.

For Luxury

• Split Apple Retreat is an exclusive luxury lodge close to Split Apple Rock, on the edge of the Abel Tasman National Park. Renown for its gourmet Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine, this sophisticated escape offers three contemporary suites, a saltwater infinity pool, Japanese spa, cooking classes and access to two tranquil beaches. A rejuvenating romantic idyll.
• Westhaven Retreat promises a remote coastal escape within a 1000-acre wilderness sanctuary. Expect seven indulgent rooms and suites, dramatic ocean views, an indoor pool, spa and superb food. A huge array of activities await, including kayaking, biking, farm tours, fishing & more. A very special wedding or function venue.
• Maruia River Retreat sits within 500 acres of verdant beech forests, on the edge of the Maruia River. Book one of secluded romantic villas with impressive views, and unwind with wellness treatments, guided yoga and relaxing afternoons in the hot tub. Homegrown produce is used to create delicious dishes. Perfect for couples or individuals looking for a restful, rejuvenating hideaway.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to nearby Nelson Airport or to tiny Takaka Airport and travel to your hotel in Tasman by car or bus. Alternatively, hop aboard the ferry from Wellington to Picton — though your trip overland will be longer.
• New Zealand is famously wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the spring or summer for the best weather, with temperatures peaking around 18-22°C between December and April. For a quieter trip and great deals, look at May or October-November.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay In Nelson.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the South Island.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.