Title: Visit Akaroa: Best of Akaroa Tourism | Expedia Travel Guide - Expedia.ca [Hotels in Akaroa](https://expedia.ca/Akaroa-Hotels.d6024120.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Vacation Rentals in Akaroa](https://expedia.ca/Akaroa-Vacation-Rentals.d6024120.Travel-Guide-VacationRentals)[Flights to Akaroa](https://expedia.ca/Cheap-Flights-To-Akaroa.d6024120.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Things to do in Akaroa](https://expedia.ca/Things-To-Do-In-Akaroa.d6024120.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Akaroa Car Rentals](https://expedia.ca/Car-Rentals-In-Akaroa.d6024120.Car-Rental-Guide)[Akaroa Vacation Packages](https://expedia.ca/Akaroa.d6024120.Destination-Travel-Guides) # Akaroa ## Travel Guide ![Akaroa showing mountains](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/110000/110940-Akaroa.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Akaroa](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/475000/475027-New-Zealand.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Akaroa showing a house](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/110000/110949-Akaroa.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Akaroa featuring swimming and general coastal views as well as a large group of people](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/110000/110961-Akaroa.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Akaroa showing tranquil scenes](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/110000/110960-Akaroa.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Akaroa Things to do #### Swim with dolphins, sail around the bay and visit a sculpture and mosaic garden in this charming French and British colonial town in a volcanic setting. Akaroa means “long harbour” in a Māori dialect and the town of Akaroa is set on the edge of a narrow and sheltered harbour. Enjoy the ambiance of this attractive heritage town, the only French settlement in New Zealand. Just 47 miles (75 kilometres) from Christchurch, Akaroa on the Banks Peninsula is easy to reach. Akaroa sits at the heart of an ancient volcano and the landscape is dotted with the remnants of past eruptions. Walk along the scenic waterfront and look to the hills beyond. Explore the origins of Akaroa with a visit to the little Akaroa Museum. Learn about the English and French heritage of the region, which was first settled by these Europeans in the 19th century but was already home to Māori hundreds of years earlier. Akaroa Beach is on the eastern shore of Akaroa Harbour. Join a boat tour to swim with the rare Hector’s dolphins, sign up for a kayaking adventure or book a relaxing sailing cruise. In Flea Bay, just to the south, take a four-wheel-drive trip to the largest little penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. Spot seals as well. Visit one of the many atmospheric cafés and restaurants around town for lunch. French food is a speciality and local chefs create magic with the fresh produce from the surrounding farmlands. An all-time favourite is kumara (sweet potato) which early Māori seafarers brought to New Zealand. Head around the bay to visit Barrys Bay Cheese, which has been running since 1895, and get a bottle of local wine to complement your cheese platter. Head out into the countryside around Akaroa for some great hiking and cycling. Short and easy trails and more challenging and adventurous tracks are available. Sensational views over the harbour and hills greet you along the way. At the Giant's House, wander around the gardens and marvel at the colourful sculptures and mosaics with views over the bay. Learn about artist Josie Martin, who created this masterpiece around an old house built in 1880. You can even stay the night here if you’d like to prolong your stay on the enchanting Banks Peninsula. - Akaroa Hotel Deals - Vacation Rentals in Akaroa ![Akaroa Waterfront Motels](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/10000000/9630000/9626300/9626275/0fc96eca_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Akaroa Waterfront Motels 56-64 Rue Jolie, Akaroa CA $118 CA $136 total Oct 12 - Oct 13 includes taxes & fees Stay at this 4-star beach motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ... 9/10 Wonderful! (515 reviews) "Great" Reviewed on Sep 26, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=12%2F10%2F2025&endDate=13%2F10%2F2025&selected=9626275&PinnedHotelID=9626275&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6024120) ![Akaroa Criterion Motel](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/5000000/4240000/4237800/4237771/9c950ad6_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Akaroa Criterion Motel 75 Rue Jolie, Akaroa CA $129 CA $153 total Oct 16 - Oct 17 includes taxes & fees Stay at this 4.5-star eco-certified motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ... 9.4/10 Exceptional! (578 reviews) "Well located accommodation and I stayed in a room with bayview and kitchenette; the room was clean and well equipped. Parking was on-site and always available during my stay. Felicity was incredibly friendly assisting with local tips and went above and beyond during my stay by loaning me a waterproof ..." Reviewed on Oct 3, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=16%2F10%2F2025&endDate=17%2F10%2F2025&selected=4237771&PinnedHotelID=4237771&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6024120) ![Tresori Motor Lodge](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/10000000/9630000/9627200/9627111/db50eb7e_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Tresori Motor Lodge Cnr Rue Jolie & Church St, Akaroa Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay CA $117 CA $136 total Oct 14 - Oct 15 includes taxes & fees Stay at this 4.5-star motel in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are located ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (334 reviews) "I have stayed here many times and always clean and comy" Reviewed on Aug 24, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=14%2F10%2F2025&endDate=15%2F10%2F2025&selected=9627111&PinnedHotelID=9627111&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6024120) [See all 188 properties in Akaroa](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=11%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025®ionId=6024120) 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. ![Akaroa Village Inn](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19300000/19296700/19296689/ad4aeb7d_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Akaroa Village Inn 81 Beach Road, Akaroa, Canterbury Stay at this 3-star beach apartment in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Akaroa Wharf and Akaroa Lighthouse are ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (117 reviews) "Fantastic spot!" Reviewed on Jul 24, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Akaroa-Hotels-Akaroa-Village-Inn.h19296689.Hotel-Information) ![Takamatua Holiday Home](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/110000000/109420000/109415800/109415781/b2c66da6_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Takamatua Holiday Home Christchurch Stay at this vacation home in Akaroa. Enjoy laundry facilities, balconies, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Artisans Gallery and Akaroa Museum are located ... Wonderful sanctuary "We absolutely loved staying at this gorgeous Takamatua home. Great communication with the hosts and very clean, had everything we needed and the location was superb." Reviewed on Dec 1, 2024 [](https://expedia.ca/Takamatua-Hotels-Takamatua-Holiday-Home.h109415781.Hotel-Information) ![Akaroa on the Beach Apartments](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/10000000/9630000/9626100/9626017/fcc4ab52_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Akaroa on the Beach Apartments 229 Beach Road, Akaroa Stay at this 3.5-star apartment in Akaroa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Britomart Monument and Akaroa Lighthouse are located ... "Great wee spot, basic but all we needed for a comfortable stay. Clean, tidy, good location, beautiful view!" Reviewed on Dec 30, 2024 [](https://expedia.ca/Akaroa-Hotels-Akaroa-On-The-Beach-Apartments.h9626017.Hotel-Information) [See all properties in Akaroa](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience®ionId=6024120&sort=VACATION_RENTAL) 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. ## Check Akaroa hotel availability [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-11) [Tonight](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-11) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-11) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-11)[Oct 10 - Oct 11](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=2025-10-10&endDate=2025-10-11) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12) [Tomorrow night](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12)[Oct 11 - Oct 12](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=10%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025) [This weekend](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=10%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=10%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=10%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025)[Oct 10 - Oct 12](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6024120&startDate=10%2F10%2F2025&endDate=12%2F10%2F2025) ### Popular places to visit ![Akaroa Wharf featuring general coastal views and a coastal town](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/180000/180853-Canterbury.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Akaroa Wharf 4.5/5(13 reviews) At this pretty quayside join wildlife-spotting excursions around the Banks Peninsula and enjoy waterfront walks while admiring magnificent scenery. [](https://expedia.ca/Akaroa-Wharf-Akaroa.d6112958.Vacation-Attraction) ![Akaroa which includes a lighthouse, a bay or harbour and a pebble beach](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/182000/182261-Akaroa-Lighthouse.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Akaroa Lighthouse 4/5(2 reviews) For a glimpse of the history of the Banks Peninsula and an hour or two in nature, walk or ride to this historic wooden lighthouse and take in the scenic harbor views. [](https://expedia.ca/Akaroa-Lighthouse-Akaroa.d553248621526966938.Vacation-Attraction) ![Linton The Giant House](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/2/a2f66cd080e3d5cecb16812c7b130faa.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Linton The Giant House You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Linton The Giant House in Akaroa. Wander the waterfront and beaches in the area. [](https://expedia.ca/Linton-The-Giant-House-Akaroa.d6112962.Vacation-Attraction) ![Akaroa Museum](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/182000/182025-Akaroa-Museum.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Akaroa Museum 5/5(1 review) Delve into the past in this fascinating little local museum with its three heritage buildings on the South Island’s Banks Peninsula. [](https://expedia.ca/Akaroa-Museum-Akaroa.d6112956.Vacation-Attraction) #### Banks Peninsula Track 5/5(1 review) You can take time to visit Banks Peninsula Track during your travels to Long Bay. Wander the waterfront in this relaxing area. [](https://expedia.ca/Banks-Peninsula-Track-Long-Bay.d553248621532610296.Vacation-Attraction) #### St Patrick's Catholic Church St Patrick's Catholic Church is just one of the places to see in Akaroa, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the waterfront and beaches in the area. [](https://expedia.ca/St-Patricks-Catholic-Church-Akaroa.d553248621532610288.Vacation-Attraction) ### Things to do ![Akaroa: Pohatu Little Penguins 3-Hour Evening Experience](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4536375/d97da824-943f-4c5e-bbd4-3789003ca3ca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Akaroa: Pohatu Little Penguins 3-Hour Evening Experience CA $93 per adult [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/akaroa-pohatu-little-penguins-3-hour-evening-experience.a4536375.activity-details) ![Akaroa: Pohatu Penguins Scenic Nature 2-Hour or 4-Hour Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4555900/5d3acfa5-cd08-40f0-a94a-7f431fa0d321.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Akaroa: Pohatu Penguins Scenic Nature 2-Hour or 4-Hour Tour CA $77 per adult [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/akaroa-pohatu-penguins-scenic-nature-2-hour-or-4-hour-tour.a4555900.activity-details) ![Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/45932567/985c6aea-9faf-4674-abb6-d91973399eaf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise CA $97 per adult **100%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/akaroa-dolphin-nature-cruise.a45932567.activity-details) ![From Akaroa: Stargazing Experience](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/47062129/624dc736-7ab1-4694-8524-6d049b2679a7.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Akaroa: Stargazing Tour with 2 Telescopes & Souvenir Photos CA $80 per adult [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/akaroa-stargazing-tour-with-2-telescopes-souvenir-photos.a47062129.activity-details) ![From Akaroa Lighthouse: Solar Explorer](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/47233219/958b74d8-3cf1-445a-bd83-18bc626e770e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### From Akaroa Lighthouse: Solar Explorer CA $24 per adult [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/from-akaroa-lighthouse-solar-explorer.a47233219.activity-details) ![You might be the next one to witness a spectacular Aurora Australis.](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/5195463/de95d3d8-ee16-4b17-a43b-bb123d45885e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Night Awe - Stargazing tour in Akaroa CA $88 per adult [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/night-awe-stargazing-tour-in-akaroa.a5195463.activity-details) [See all activities in Akaroa](https://expedia.ca/Things-To-Do-In-Akaroa.d6024120.Travel-Guide-Activities) ## Cities near Akaroa ![Photo by YoungAdventuress](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/2/485f316d0c11ec35cbb9843cc3e7160c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Robinsons Bay [](https://expedia.ca/Robinsons-Bay.dx553248635975855905) - Cities near Akaroa - Places of interest [Robinsons Bay](https://expedia.ca/Robinsons-Bay.dx553248635975855905)[Hickory Bay](https://expedia.ca/Hickory-Bay.dx692483305487949824) - [Akaroa Lighthouse](https://expedia.ca/Akaroa-Lighthouse-Akaroa.d553248621526966938.Vacation-Attraction) - [Lyttelton Harbour](https://expedia.ca/Lyttelton-Harbour-Lyttelton.d6112944.Vacation-Attraction) - [Sumner Beach](https://expedia.ca/Sumner-Beach-Sumner.d6112932.Vacation-Attraction) - [New Brighton Beach](https://expedia.ca/New-Brighton-Beach-New-Brighton.d6112934.Vacation-Attraction) - [Christchurch Gondola](https://expedia.ca/Christchurch-Gondola-Heathcote-Valley.d6214185.Vacation-Attraction) - [Cave Rock](https://expedia.ca/Cave-Rock-Sumner.d6112938.Vacation-Attraction) - [Mount Cavendish](https://expedia.ca/Mount-Cavendish-Heathcote-Valley.d6112930.Vacation-Attraction) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels and earn double points when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. Scan the QR code with your device camera and download our app ![QR code to download the app](data:image/png;base64,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)