Hotels in Pakawau

Discover Pakawau: A Hidden Gem Where Pristine Beaches Meet Majestic National Parks

Nestled in the Tasman Region of New Zealand's South Island, Pakawau is a hidden gem that boasts stunning natural beauty and tranquility. With its picturesque beach, Pakawau Beach, visitors can bask in golden sands while gazing at the sparkling bay. The nearby Abel Tasman National Park invites adventure enthusiasts to explore lush trails and pristine waters. Ideal for a romantic getaway or a family holiday, Pakawau offers charming beach houses and holiday homes that provide a cozy retreat. Discover the serene landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and the peaceful allure of this off-the-beaten-path paradise, perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike. For the best hotel rates in Pakawau, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Pakawau

Some of the best places to stay in Pakawau are Takaka, Pohara and Collingwood. Takaka, Pohara, and Collingwood offer stunning landscapes, vibrant local culture, and access to beautiful beaches. Takaka is best for first-time visitors, providing a lively atmosphere and various amenities. Accommodation options generally include cozy vacation homes, charming beach houses, and well-equipped holiday homes in all three locations. Pakawau, with its serene environment, features vacation rentals and cottages perfect for relaxation, including options with pools, making it ideal for a laid-back getaway. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Pakawau:

1. TakakaOpens in a new window: Takaka is a charming destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to stunning sites like Abel Tasman National Park, Te Waikoropupu Springs, and Pohara Beach. This location is perfect for adventure seekers, with opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Among the lodging options, Motueka River LodgeOpens in a new window is a well-rated 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast that caters to families and business travelers, providing amenities for adventure sports and childcare services. Another option, The Shady Rest B&BOpens in a new window, is a comfortable 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast that offers free breakfast to start your day right. Finally, The MudcastleOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star guesthouse that features beach access and additional recreational activities like golfing and sailing.
2. PoharaOpens in a new window: Pohara is a picturesque spot ideal for beach lovers and outdoor activities, with attractions such as Abel Tasman National Park and Tata Beach. This area boasts luxury accommodations, including The Bay LodgeOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star guesthouse for a lavish stay. For a more budget-friendly option, Eden's Edge Lodge Opens in a new window is a 5.0-star hostel/backpacker lodging that offers free daily breakfast and nearby hiking opportunities. Additionally, Ratanui LodgeOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star lodge that provides a luxurious experience for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.
3. CollingwoodOpens in a new window: Collingwood is a delightful location for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and exploring parks. Key attractions include Golden Bay and Milnthorpe Park. Collingwood Park MotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star motel, offers direct beach access and various wellness amenities, making it perfect for nature lovers. Meanwhile, The Station House MotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star motel, accommodates pet owners and provides adventure sports nearby, such as kayaking and mountain biking. Lastly, Westhaven RetreatOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star lodge that combines beach access with business amenities, ideal for both leisure and corporate travelers.

Things to do in Pakawau for first time

Pakawau offers an unforgettable three-day escape, featuring stunning beaches, lush forests, and scenic trails perfect for hiking and exploration. Visitors can enjoy activities like boating, sea diving, and picnicking amidst breathtaking landscapes. With nearby holiday parks and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s an ideal getaway in New Zealand. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Pakawau:

• Day 1: Start your adventure by visiting Golden Bay, a stunning location known for its golden sands and breathtaking views. After soaking in the beauty, head to Tukurua Bay, where you can relax on the beach or explore the nearby landscapes. Conclude your day at Parapara Beach, a serene spot perfect for a peaceful walk along the shore as the sun sets, providing a picturesque end to your first day in Pakawau.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Pakawau Beach, a great place to enjoy the sun and surf. From there, make your way to Wharariki Beach, famous for its dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations. Take a leisurely walk and perhaps spot some seals. Finally, visit Cape Farewell, the northernmost point of the South Island, where you can marvel at the stunning coastal scenery and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a trip to Farewell Spit, a remarkable natural reserve that's home to diverse birdlife and stunning landscapes. Next, explore the Te Anaroa Caves, where you can venture into the fascinating underground world. Wrap up your day at Collingwood Recreation Ground, a great spot to unwind and reflect on your adventures, perhaps enjoying a picnic or a leisurely stroll in the park.

5 tips to find a great Pakawau hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Pakawau is during May, July, and August, when hotel prices drop significantly. For those on a budget, planning a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area’s main attractions. Notable sights include the stunning beach, the beautiful bay, and the national park, all of which offer great value for money and are perfect for exploration.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for sweet last-minute deals to Pakawau, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find enticing discounts on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging a fantastic rate, consider setting up email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you book today and save on your getaway to Pakawau!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Pakawau.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying nearer to major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Pakawau and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

Best time to go to Pakawau

Pakawau experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 52.3°F (11.3°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.8°F (18.2°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Pakawau are January, February, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, June to August are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.