Top 10 Bookabach Holiday Homes Around Bay of Islands, New Zealand - Updated 2024

Louise
Louise 
Updated
| 6 min read

Located within a short distance from North Island, Bay of Islands is a breathtaking enclave in New Zealand that showcases beauty beyond compare. It is a paradise that is an ideal hideaway destination for nature-lovers and adventure-seekers. A place where water and land converge, Bay of Islands is home to pristine beaches that are not only ideal for swimming but also excellent for water sports. Plus, it has significant territories that are pivotal in New Zealand’s history, including the site of the founding agreement of the country— Waitangi Treaty. If you are planning to explore this side of New Zealand soon, here is a lost of top Bookabach holiday homes around Bay of Islands, New Zealand, that might pique your interest. Feel free to browse below.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 08, 2024.

1. Five-bedroom vacation home (from USD 303)

If you are looking for a big place for a large group of tourists, this stunning home might be the one for you. It houses five equally charming and comfortable rooms and five private bathrooms with basic essentials for your convenience. Also, it has a full kitchen and a dining area where you can whip up your specialty dishes anytime you like. The living room is spacious and built with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding doors to let natural light into the home and for guests to be able to marvel at the outside views from inside. Additionally, the patio is vast and charming, with a wonderful sitting area and picturesque sceneries.

Stayed at this property?

18.45 km (11.5 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
60 reviews   Wifi Available
House 15 Guests 5 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 15
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the builders were banging next door
The living area is very large and the enclosed wraparound deck was a big bonus for the children
This could not be avoided obviously
It has everything you need
Very comfortable everything we wanted including the baby furniture
Cleanliness:
It was very clean and tidy
Awesome balcony that can be closed in and there's a heater Rooms were large Bathrooms clean
Location was lovely and quiet
Host:
Despite being the middle of winter the house was nice and warm
We also enjoyed Russell and Long Beach Excellent
The house was beautiful and sunny with awesome views
all of our children Keep the kids down one end nice and quiet
It was a beautiful home big and comfortable for a large family
Location:
The house was amazing Perfect location
Great location for a relaxing holiday 2 different beaches within easy walk
The property is in a great location easy walk to the beaches HEAPS of space which was good for
Having two very different beaches a short walk away was just fantastic
we're very nice to deal with
Read more reviews

2. A rustic cottage with charming vibes and scenic views (from USD 125)

Reconnect with nature and fall in love with Te Wahapu Bay during your vacation in this stunning beach-house accommodation with lush gardens and marvelous views. This vacation rental is perfect for guests on a romantic getaway who want to explore this side of New Zealand. Your home is cozy and well-equipped with basic essentials that you might need during your stay, and it has gorgeous views as well. Also, guests are free to use a shared kitchen, a dining area, lots of lounge spaces, and laundry facilities.

Stayed at this property?
Te Wahapu, Northland, New Zealand
14.13 km (8.8 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The view from the 2 decks was amazing and it was wonderful sitting in the sun on the deck eating breakfast
but he had difficulty getting our suitcases up to the cottage
Sublime location and views just as the pictures present Well equipped and very comfortable
A most enjoyable and memorable stay
Next time we will take our boat
Host:
Early wi fi issues quickly resolved with host who was happy to provide some welcome local eating recommendations Glorious peace with Russell
It's very slippery when wet & would not be great for anyone who is elderly or unfit
Our host responded quickly and graciously to every question and/or request A perfect location for visiotrs wanting the feeling of home while away
This was a gorgeous little honeymoon retreat for us
Cute cottage and great views but location was costly due to car ferry trips
Location:
Great place to get away from it all
Fantastic location - very beautiful and secluded but also close to Russell
Fantastic location - very beautiful and secluded but also close to Russell
we saw some dolphins in a nearby bay
The cottage is north facing so a bit chilly in the winter time but perfect in the summer
Read more reviews

3. Charming little rustic home by the beach (from USD 129)

This charming vacation home is ideal for tourists who value their privacy. You have the whole house to yourself, and you have a private area by the bay where you can swim and make memories with your loved ones, undisturbed. Inside showcases stunning cabin-like interiors and is equipped with convenient amenities. It has three bedrooms, a private bathroom, a lounge area with a flat-screen TV, and a kitchen where you can unleash your inner culinary master. Also, you can meditate on the lawn in the mornings and afternoons and marvel at the views of nature.

Stayed at this property?

22.79 km (14.2 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
39 reviews  
House 7 Guests 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 7
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the views of the beautiful little bays and the outlook to the other islands is stunning
but it had everything we wanted (hot shower fridge bbq etc) and
It may not be super flash
It was a very private and secluded paradise
but the knowledge that Andy was there should we need was great
Cleanliness:
The house was spotlessly clean and had everything we needed
the bach was clean and tidy and the island was truly stepping back in time Very happy with our stay indeed
Host:
A wonderful three days Andy met us at the jetty and we found him very pleasant helpful and informative
We walked around the island twice and both times saw tomtits robins
What can one say about the most perfect setting and generous hospitality we received during our stay at Moturua Island Andy was very accomodating and helpful during our arrival and throughout our ...
he was there if needed anything
whiteheads and red-crowned kakariki as well as all the other more common birds we expected to see Walking around the island
Location:
This is a very beautiful location
This place is amazing Perfectly adequate house in an unbelievable location
Thank you also to Andy for being excellent and a pleasure to deal with
location is fantastic very idyllic and private
We spent many hours walking the islands bush tracks and just hanging out on what has to be one of the best beaches in the bay
Read more reviews

4. Luxurious modern, minimalist home (from USD 449)

Luxurious, elegant, and cozy are three words that best describe this tastefully furnished vacation home. Ideal for guests with meticulous taste, this haven is charming as it boasts stunning views. Housing three chic bedrooms and two bathrooms with bathtubs, this home can accommodate up to six guests. The kitchen is fully equipped and spacious enough for you to move around comfortably. Once done with food preparation, you can set up a lovely dinner in the dining area. Also, you will surely love chilling in the living room or taking a nap there while savoring the cool coastal breeze that enters this charming home.

Stayed at this property?

26.2 km (16.3 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
15 reviews   Wifi Available
House 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
There is everything you need to have a easy care free holiday
the house itself is very well appointed and comfortable
everything that you need is there
Perfect spot for relaxing sun sea snorkelling and fishing Only wish it was our little secret
A magnificent property with stunning views
Host:
she was telling us off -
Property exceeded expectations and the location will always have us coming back
The setting was magical and the house layout accommodated our large family with teenagers
The house was fantastic and the location terrific Barry warned us at the last minute about the lady over the fence and the spa and by 8pm
The entertainment for kids parents (hot tub) was brilliant and the bach came with absolutely everything you could imagine when in need look in the cupboards Not sure whether cleaning the bac...
Location:
it's a 5 min walk to the swimming beach
The location and view are just incredible
The kids loved the spa pool
and we still just can't get enough of this magical property Not only the stunning position and view
+ signs in the house saying to leave it as you found it
Read more reviews

5. Sophisticated and tastefully furnished home (from USD 177)

Surprise your family with a much-deserved vacation in the Bay of Islands, and make this fantastic accommodation your home throughout your stay. You will be left in awe by the beauty and charm of this house from outside, and when you get inside, you will be pleased even more. Tastefully curated and showcasing bright interiors while exuding a homey ambiance, this home will make your vacation experience a memorable one. It is built with dramatic windows with lovely curtains that dance slowly as the winds enter the house, allowing guests to witness the scenic wonders from inside. Also, there are two bedrooms, a private bathroom, a modern kitchen, a dining area, a living room, and spacious lawns where the kids can run around and play safely.

Stayed at this property?

17.26 km (10.8 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
14 reviews   Wifi Available
cottage 7 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 7
Minimum Nights: 0
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
You don't need much when you have the beach across the road
Cleanliness:
Perfect little beach bach Simple clean and the location cannot be beat
was fantastic to deal with and
The Bach is neat and tidy and simple
Host:
very helpful Curtains are old torn and falling apart Otherwise great
plenty of power points good stove good heating Manager
Loved our holiday here and definitely hope to return Lorna
Location:
plenty of power points Helpful manager Traditional NZ bach kind of place Close to wonderful beach
Read more reviews

6. Gorgeous fully furnished home with direct access to the beach (from USD 230)

Experience a vacation like no other in the Strand Russell area by staying in this charming three-bedroom home with modern furnishings. A few steps from the beach, this haven gives its guests easy access to the beach at any time of the day. Imagine swimming in refreshing waters and building sandcastles with your loved ones. Plus, the tranquil ambiance and the cool breeze of the coastal area will make your stay even more delightful. This home is equipped with two bathrooms, a living room with a flat-screen TV—which is adjacent to the dining area with direct views of the beach—and a full kitchen with functional cooking essentials and appliances.

Stayed at this property?
Russell, Bay of Islands, New Zealand
17.07 km (10.7 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 7 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Having the house fenced was great for our 3 wee boys as by adding a lock on the front gate
It has everything you need and more
The beds are very comfortable and our 4 year old slept through every night - major bonus
We had a wonderful stay - very clean comfortable and an easy walk to the town and the ferry
The house is an an awesome location right on the beachfront and was well equipped with everything we needed for our stay
Cleanliness:
The house had everything we needed
Host:
David was a great host and very easy to work with Property exactly as described
Its very well equipped and especially good for family's with young children
Very comfortable property excellent communication with the owner
It was so lovely to arrive to a warm house with lights and heat pump on - very welcoming
we knew they couldn't get out
Location:
we loved the house and location
Absolutely awesome place to stay perfect location within walking distance to all amenities
it's right on the waterfront
Really enjoyable stay on the Russell waterfront
A lovely place to stay close to the local pubs and restaurants with a stunning view
Read more reviews

7. Superb, beautifully furnished home close to Orongo Beach (from USD 182)

Need more suggestions for your upcoming Bay of Islands vacation with your loved ones? Looking for a house that can accommodate up to 10 guests? This stunning home might pique your interest. Not only can it house a big group, but it also gives you spectacular views of the bay. Additionally, the home has a shortcut to a private beach area of Orongo Bay, and kayaks are available for guests to use. It is equipped with all the features of a typical beach home, and another thing to love about it is its proximity to the area’s exquisite restaurants, souvenir shops, and grocery stores.

Stayed at this property?
Te Wahapu, Russell, New Zealand
14.78 km (9.2 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 9 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the kitchen is well equipped
Perfect place to accommodate our group of 4 couples
The beds are very comfortable
It is in need of a degree of maintenance - the back of one of the dining room chairs was falling apart as was the state of some of the chairs on the deck
from the moment you drive down the drive
Host:
but even more now Highlight of the trip for me were the kayaks across the bay
The main deck though is in good condition and a wonderful area to enjoy the view
Spectacular water and surrounding forests views Lots of native birds around Morepork and Tui Wonderful forest path to private beach with kayaks great for exercise
the views are amazing could sit all day and relax looking out over the bay
Spacious well presented and equipped Spectacular views
Location:
Furnishings are quality Kids loved freedom to play on decks Need to be water usage conscious
Nevertheless the place has an air of neglect about it
It was spoiled by difficult access to the house
A glorious view and restful environment
but you dont want to go anywhere as you just sit and relax on the balcony looking out over the bay and distant views
Read more reviews

8. Exceptional fenced home for families (from USD 106)

Situated in an excellent location where guests can enjoy the beauty of the Bay of Islands, this dream vacation home will give you a bang for your buck. It has the best views of the beach, and you can run and jump into the refreshing waters at any time. This vacation house is curated for all types of guests, especially families, as the house is fenced from every side. Three bedrooms have sliding glass doors that let you enjoy the views while chilling in bed. The living area and the full kitchen are both spacious enough for you to move around comfortably without bumping into hard edges. Plus, there is kayak equipment for a more fun beach experience.

Stayed at this property?

18.54 km (11.6 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
146 reviews  
House 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 4
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
A clean comfortable and cosy house with a stunning sea view and easy access to the beach
The town of Russell is very charming and friendly
the pool table and the table tennis and all the board games provided Access to the beach is simple
Loved the privacy and being right on the beach
Very private and right on the beach A lovely home making a relaxing stay
Cleanliness:
A great house with fantastic views
and if anything the property seems closer to the beach than the photos suggest The house was extremely clean and well presented and yet still had a homely feel to it
Host:
Very family friendly and cozy home
Great location served what we wanted to do very well
Have stayed three times now and LOVE it - fantastic location and a really comfortable homely bach Will definitely be back
Some sort of outside space to sit and catch the morning rays would have made it absolutely perfect
Perfect location with an amazing view
Location:
Our puppy absolutely loved it too Just an absolutely beautiful house in a surreal picturesque part of NZ
As tourists from overseas we enjoyed our time spent in Russell which really is just 5 minutes away
Really great communication from Barry and a lovely welcome throughout the whole process
and we enjoyed the restaurants and fishing and site seeing charters but
the bay is peaceful yet within easy reach of Russell town
Read more reviews

Fall in love with Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands is a breathtaking enclave in New Zealand that looks more like heaven on earth. Its landscape, beauty, and charm make it a dream destination for tourists who want to reconnect with nature and indulge in all the comforts of the countryside. If you are planning a quick escapade with your loved ones on this side of New Zealand, use this list as your guide in choosing the best sanctuary for your vacation.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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