A multi-tiered waterfall cascading over rocks in a forested area.

Photo by Ian Mackenzie

The Catlins Beach Vacations

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  • Discover the most popular places to visit in The Catlins

    A coastal landscape with a lighthouse on a green hill, a winding path, and rocky outcrops in the sea.

    Nugget Point Lighthouse

    Rating: 9.8/10 (75 reviews)

    Sitting high above the water’s edge, this historic lighthouse has been a fixture of the Catlins for more than a century.

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    A small, green island surrounded by turquoise ocean waves.

    Jack's Blowhole

    Rating: 8.6/10 (22 reviews)

    See the powerful natural feature named after a Māori chief by following a short trail on a private sheep farm.

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    A multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

    McLean Falls

    Rating: 9.6/10 (81 reviews)

    This two-part waterfall is the end-point of an easy walk through varied forest and bush land and one of the most impressive in the Catlins area.

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    A multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

    Purakaunui Falls

    Rating: 9.6/10 (62 reviews)

    Visit the Catlins’ most famous waterfalls to see why it has adorned postcards and postage stamps for decades.

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    A dense forest with ferns and tall trees.

    Kaka Point Scenic Reserve

    Rating: 9.0/10 (26 reviews)

    Explore the great outdoors at Kaka Point Scenic Reserve, a lovely green space in Kaka Point. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.

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    A natural rock formation with a water channel and a clear sky visible through an opening.

    Cathedral Caves

    Rating: 9.0/10 (49 reviews)

    Explore the great outdoors at Cathedral Caves, a lovely green space in Chaslands. Wander the forest and seaside while you're in the area.

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    Curio Bay Petrified Forest

    Rating: 9.0/10 (95 reviews)

    Explore the great outdoors at Curio Bay Petrified Forest, a lovely green space in Curio Bay. Stroll along the beaches or visit the monuments while you're in the area.

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    Top Beach The Catlins Hotels

    Curio Bay Salt House Motel

    A balcony with wicker furniture overlooking a beach.
    • Address: 517 Waikawa-Curio Bay Rd, Curio Bay, 9884, NZ
    • Location: 23.8 km from The Catlins
    • Star rating: 3/5
    • Guest rating: 9.6/10 (Exceptional, 384 reviews)
    • Price: CA $152, CA $175 total, includes taxes & fees, Dec 10 - Dec 11, for Top Beach The Catlins Hotels
    • Review: "A good basic 2 bedroom apartment, well-appointed, with a great view of the bay and direct access to beach (easier going down than returning). However, there are no windows that open (apart from bathroom, not sure about a window above the bed). No source of outside air. We slept poorly because of this. The room became stuffy (and this in the spring, admittedly a warm day). The only ventilation is from the doors, although leaning them open would challenge security and expose the flat to insects...

    The Kaka Point Motels

    A wooden deck with a table and chairs, overlooking a beach with the ocean and a distant island.
    • Address: 24 Rata Street, Kaka Point, 9720, NZ
    • Location: 38.1 km from The Catlins
    • Star rating: 4/5
    • Guest rating: 9.2/10 (Wonderful, 297 reviews)
    • Price: CA $122, CA $140 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 17 - Nov 18, for Top Beach The Catlins Hotels
    • Review: Magnificent views, room very spacious had everything we needed. Short walk to the beach and local restaurant.

    Waikawa House

    A single-story house with a red roof, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and various flowering plants.
    • Address: 14 Lisburn street, Waikawa, southland, 9441, NZ
    • Location: 19.5 km from The Catlins
    • Star rating: 3.5/5
    • Guest rating: 9.6/10 (Exceptional, 44 reviews)
    • Price: CA $136, CA $157 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 17 - Nov 18, for Top Beach The Catlins Hotels
    • Review: Wonderful rural house, will book again definitely!!!

    Catlins Newhaven Holiday Park

    A sandy beach with footprints leading to the water, a clear sky, and a hilly landscape in the background.
    • Address: 324 Newhaven Rd, New Haven, Otago, 9585, NZ
    • Location: 31.2 km from The Catlins
    • Star rating: 3/5
    • Guest rating: 9.2/10 (Wonderful, 130 reviews)
    • Price: CA $79, CA $92 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 14 - Nov 15, for Top Beach The Catlins Hotels
    • Review: We loved our stay here. Saw the sea lions in their natural environment. The lady on reception was super helpful with local advice. Only downfall was the dirt road to access which we did not realise and we were in a hire car. It was a nice dirt road, just unexpected

    Pekapeka Tiny House by Tiny Away

    A modern cabin with a wooden deck, two chairs, and a small garden area.
    • Address: Owaka, Otago, NZ
    • Location: 27.2 km from The Catlins
    • Guest rating: 8.6/10 (Excellent, 11 reviews)
    • Price: CA $172, CA $219 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 18 - Nov 19, for Top Beach The Catlins Hotels

    Tranquility Tiny House by Tiny Away

    A modern, compact house with a wooden exterior, a small deck, and a gravel pathway leading to the entrance.
    • Address: Owaka, Otago, NZ
    • Location: 27 km from The Catlins
    • Guest rating: 8/10 (Very good, 5 reviews)
    • Price: CA $128, CA $175 total, includes taxes & fees, Nov 17 - Nov 18, for Top Beach The Catlins Hotels
    • Review: Loved it managed well very peaceful stay just what we needed after Christmas

    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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    Find the best beach vacations in The Catlins

    What are some benefits when booking beach vacations in The Catlins?

    When you travel to the beach in The Catlins, soft sands and inviting waters, warm sun and gentle breezes will help you relax. This applies to the whole family, as kids and adults can find something fun to do, so family beach vacations are the quintessential family trip.

    How can I book the best beach vacations in The Catlins?

    To find the best beach vacation, you'll need to book the right accommodations for your family. What the best is depends on what you want from your The Catlins trip. Fortunately, you can use various filters combined with the beach filter to sort for what you want. Additionally, you'll need to consider the time of year you visit.

    Can I book cheap beach vacations in The Catlins?

    There are quite a few things you can do to get cheap beach vacations in The Catlins. Prices range from , and if you want to keep yours on the lower side, you may want to consider just how close to the beach you are. If you don't mind a bit of a walk, further away is typically cheaper. Additionally booking something with a kitchen can help you save by avoiding dining out.

    Can I book beach packages?

    Yes, and you'll find quite a few beach packages available in The Catlins. These package deals let you save by booking your accommodation and your flight together with savings of up to .

    Why should I book family beach vacations?

    When you're travelling with the family to The Catlins, booking your vacation by the beach is one of the best ways to keep everyone happy. There's a reason why some of the most memorable family trips for kids are family beach vacations. You'll be just steps away from the water, and you can often enjoy stunning views of the shore from your room.

    How can I find a beachfront vacation in The Catlins?

    It's easy to find a beachfront vacation accommodation in The Catlins using the search filter. You can filter for waterfront properties specifically that will only show you results that have beautiful views of the shoreline.

    How can I book last-minute beach vacations?

    Travelling at the last minute doesn't mean you're out of luck to have a dream beach vacation. Last-minute beach vacations may even offer a nice discount as the owners of hotels or other accommodations try to fill their remaining vacancies. All you have to do is input your travel dates and The Catlins as your destination and see what's available.

    Can I find all-inclusive beach vacations ?

    Yes, all you have to do to find all-inclusive beach vacations in The Catlins is to use the search filter. It will automatically restrict your results to all-inclusive deals that allow you to plan the entire trip in advance.

    Can I book a beach trip that's fully refundable?

    Any fully refundable booking can bring peace of mind, and we're happy to offer this feature in several packages and locations throughout New Zealand. All you have to do to find them is check the policies section on each accommodation page. Of course, you can filter for fully-refundable results specifically, too.

    Why should I book beach vacations with Expedia?

    When you book with Expedia, you'll find a one-stop shop for all your planning needs. You can book your flight and accommodation at the same place and potentially get a discount for booking these together. You can also take advantage of the Expedia Rewards program. Becoming a member is free, and when you do, you'll earn points with every booking will add discounts on subsequent trips.