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 May 25, 2025.
1. Five-bedroom vacation home (from USD 309)
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.
Tapeka Point (Russell), Northland, New Zealand
18.45 km (11.5 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
Top guest reviews
Host:
Despite being the middle of winter the house was nice and warmWe also enjoyed Russell and Long Beach ExcellentThe house was beautiful and sunny with awesome viewsall of our children Keep the kids down one end nice and quietIt was a beautiful home big and comfortable for a large familyLocation:
The house was amazing Perfect locationGreat location for a relaxing holiday 2 different beaches within easy walkThe property is in a great location easy walk to the beaches HEAPS of space which was good forHaving two very different beaches a short walk away was just fantasticwe're very nice to deal withCleanliness:
It was very clean and tidyAwesome balcony that can be closed in and there's a heater Rooms were large Bathrooms cleanLocation was lovely and quietRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the builders were banging next doorThe living area is very large and the enclosed wraparound deck was a big bonus for the childrenThis could not be avoided obviouslyIt has everything you needVery comfortable everything we wanted including the baby furniture
2. A rustic cottage with charming vibes and scenic views (from USD 142)
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.
Te Wahapu, Northland, New Zealand
14.13 km (8.8 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
Top guest reviews
Host:
Early wi fi issues quickly resolved with host who was happy to provide some welcome local eating recommendations Glorious peace with RussellIt's very slippery when wet & would not be great for anyone who is elderly or unfitOur host responded quickly and graciously to every question and/or request A perfect location for visiotrs wanting the feeling of home while awayThis was a gorgeous little honeymoon retreat for usCute cottage and great views but location was costly due to car ferry tripsLocation:
Great place to get away from it allFantastic location - very beautiful and secluded but also close to RussellFantastic location - very beautiful and secluded but also close to Russellwe saw some dolphins in a nearby bayThe cottage is north facing so a bit chilly in the winter time but perfect in the summerRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
The view from the 2 decks was amazing and it was wonderful sitting in the sun on the deck eating breakfastbut he had difficulty getting our suitcases up to the cottageSublime location and views just as the pictures present Well equipped and very comfortableA most enjoyable and memorable stayNext time we will take our boat
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.
22.79 km (14.2 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm CavesAccommodates: 7
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Host:
A wonderful three days Andy met us at the jetty and we found him very pleasant helpful and informativeWe walked around the island twice and both times saw tomtits robinsWhat 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 anythingwhiteheads and red-crowned kakariki as well as all the other more common birds we expected to see Walking around the islandLocation:
This is a very beautiful locationThis place is amazing Perfectly adequate house in an unbelievable locationThank you also to Andy for being excellent and a pleasure to deal withlocation is fantastic very idyllic and privateWe spent many hours walking the islands bush tracks and just hanging out on what has to be one of the best beaches in the bayCleanliness:
The house was spotlessly clean and had everything we neededthe bach was clean and tidy and the island was truly stepping back in time Very happy with our stay indeedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the views of the beautiful little bays and the outlook to the other islands is stunningbut it had everything we wanted (hot shower fridge bbq etc) andIt may not be super flashIt was a very private and secluded paradisebut the knowledge that Andy was there should we need was great
4. Luxurious modern, minimalist home
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.
26.2 km (16.3 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm CavesAccommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Host:
she was telling us off -Property exceeded expectations and the location will always have us coming backThe setting was magical and the house layout accommodated our large family with teenagersThe 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 8pmThe 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 beachThe location and view are just incredibleThe kids loved the spa pooland 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 itRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
There is everything you need to have a easy care free holidaythe house itself is very well appointed and comfortableeverything that you need is therePerfect spot for relaxing sun sea snorkelling and fishing Only wish it was our little secretA magnificent property with stunning views
5. Sophisticated and tastefully furnished home
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.
17.26 km (10.8 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm CavesAccommodates: 7
Minimum Nights: 0
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Host:
very helpful Curtains are old torn and falling apart Otherwise greatplenty of power points good stove good heating ManagerLoved our holiday here and definitely hope to return LornaLocation:
plenty of power points Helpful manager Traditional NZ bach kind of place Close to wonderful beachCleanliness:
Perfect little beach bach Simple clean and the location cannot be beatwas fantastic to deal with andThe Bach is neat and tidy and simpleRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
You don't need much when you have the beach across the road
6. Gorgeous fully furnished home with direct access to the beach
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.
Russell, Bay of Islands, New Zealand
17.07 km (10.7 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
Top guest reviews
Host:
David was a great host and very easy to work with Property exactly as describedIts very well equipped and especially good for family's with young childrenVery comfortable property excellent communication with the ownerIt was so lovely to arrive to a warm house with lights and heat pump on - very welcomingwe knew they couldn't get outLocation:
we loved the house and locationAbsolutely awesome place to stay perfect location within walking distance to all amenitiesit's right on the waterfrontReally enjoyable stay on the Russell waterfrontA lovely place to stay close to the local pubs and restaurants with a stunning viewCleanliness:
The house had everything we neededRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
Having the house fenced was great for our 3 wee boys as by adding a lock on the front gateIt has everything you need and moreThe beds are very comfortable and our 4 year old slept through every night - major bonusWe had a wonderful stay - very clean comfortable and an easy walk to the town and the ferryThe house is an an awesome location right on the beachfront and was well equipped with everything we needed for our stay
7. Superb, beautifully furnished home close to Orongo Beach
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.
Te Wahapu, Russell, New Zealand
14.78 km (9.2 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
Top guest reviews
Host:
but even more now Highlight of the trip for me were the kayaks across the bayThe main deck though is in good condition and a wonderful area to enjoy the viewSpectacular water and surrounding forests views Lots of native birds around Morepork and Tui Wonderful forest path to private beach with kayaks great for exercisethe views are amazing could sit all day and relax looking out over the baySpacious well presented and equipped Spectacular viewsLocation:
Furnishings are quality Kids loved freedom to play on decks Need to be water usage consciousNevertheless the place has an air of neglect about itIt was spoiled by difficult access to the houseA glorious view and restful environmentbut you dont want to go anywhere as you just sit and relax on the balcony looking out over the bay and distant viewsRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the kitchen is well equippedPerfect place to accommodate our group of 4 couplesThe beds are very comfortableIt 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 deckfrom the moment you drive down the drive
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.
18.54 km (11.6 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm CavesAccommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 4
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Host:
Very family friendly and cozy homeGreat location served what we wanted to do very wellHave stayed three times now and LOVE it - fantastic location and a really comfortable homely bach Will definitely be backSome sort of outside space to sit and catch the morning rays would have made it absolutely perfectPerfect location with an amazing viewLocation:
Our puppy absolutely loved it too Just an absolutely beautiful house in a surreal picturesque part of NZAs tourists from overseas we enjoyed our time spent in Russell which really is just 5 minutes awayReally great communication from Barry and a lovely welcome throughout the whole processand we enjoyed the restaurants and fishing and site seeing charters butthe bay is peaceful yet within easy reach of Russell townCleanliness:
A great house with fantastic viewsand 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 itRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
A clean comfortable and cosy house with a stunning sea view and easy access to the beachThe town of Russell is very charming and friendlythe pool table and the table tennis and all the board games provided Access to the beach is simpleLoved the privacy and being right on the beachVery private and right on the beach A lovely home making a relaxing stay
9. Gorgeous beach house with picturesque views
Nesting right in front of the beach, this fantastic vacation rental provides guests easy access to a breathtaking paradise where they can swim in refreshing waters and sunbathe till they achieve their desired tan. The home is tastefully furnished with well-curated home decor. It exudes a cool and airy ambiance that you will surely find relaxing. Additionally, the beach house is equipped with everything you need, such as four bedrooms, a sparkling-clean private bathroom with shower facilities, a kitchen, a dining area, a living room with a view, and a lovely sundeck with outdoor furniture.
24.63 km (15.4 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm CavesTop guest reviews
Host:
the hosts were very friendly and easy to correspond withthe owners were excellent with communicationmeet the locals who were very friendlyvery hospitable hosts left us a wee treat to enjoyLocation:
beautiful location nice batchy atmosphere nice and spacious we had a comfortable relaxed staygreat views and location enjoyed our stay very helpful and great communicationa spacious and comfortable property overlooking the bay of islands in a quiet bayCleanliness:
great accommodation which is spacious clean well appointed and comfortableRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
wonderful views and comfortable friendly staythe house is comfortable not luxurious but the view from the deck is amazing
10. Well-equipped home with a patio and barbecue facilities
Indulge in all the simple pleasures that Opito Bay offers when you stay in this stunning beach house. Imagine waking up to picturesque views every morning and the sound of the waves crashing on the shores. These are just a few of the things to expect on this side of the Bay of Islands. On a different note, the rental has four bedrooms, and most of them are built with expansive windows where guests can marvel at the scenic views. For sure, instead of chilling in the living area, you will spend most of your time in the spacious sundeck with a table setting, barbecue facilities. and views that will take your breath away.
24.61 km (15.3 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm CavesTop guest reviews
Host:
Spa was amazing & added value to the home Easy to communicate with the host and instructions were thoroughbut we would definitely hire this place again with the hope the musty smell is dealt with The contact person was very helpful when we had to call them about the spa poolso peaceful Evenings in the hot tub were the highlight for usAwesome location and views Good place to hang out with family and socialise Except we checked before going shopping for groceries for our stay that we needed rubbish bagsGreat spot to soak in the spa and do the loop track through the bush each day Kiwi calls at night and an easy boat ramp to launch the boat from Very pleasant break from the city for usLocation:
Relaxing in the spa at night and starIt's proximity to Kerikeri is close enough (approx 20mins ) to be handy but far enough away that you get to enjoy the peace and quietA lovely private spot close to the action of Bay of Islandsthe kids and adults alike were able to walk around the rocks for a long way Great fun and exploringOnce we got at the houseCleanliness:
The spa was great and it was so quiet and peacefulRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
The views were breath takingThe bach is on a private roadNice large space & well equip with plenty of room for everyoneThe shower had hairs in it and the there was dirt under the couch which looked like dirt was getting swept under the couch Other than that the home was perfectI wish the heat could flow to all the bedrooms as it can be cold during winter nights
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.
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