10 Best Bookabach Holiday Homes In The Catlins, New Zealand - Updated 2024

Chandana
Chandana 
Updated
| 6 min read

Blessed by an abundance of natural wonders, with sandy beaches and verdant rainforests dotting the region, the Catlins, often called the Catlin Coast, is the perfect holiday getaway. This picturesque region is also home to rare penguins, endangered sea lions, and dolphins. The winding roads that showcase stunning landscapes at every twist and turn beckon you to set off on a thrilling road trip. Purakaunui Falls, a triple-tiered wonder, Nugget Point, with its lighthouse, and Curio Bay, with its 180-million-year-old fossil forest, are just some of the attractions that merit a visit. The Catlin Coast offers the best surfing in the country, with enthusiasts turning up from across the world, to try their luck. A sparsely populated area, the Catlins is now gaining increasing importance on the tourism map of the country. Here is a compilation of the best Bookabach holiday homes in the Catlins, New Zealand.

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 March 13, 2023.

1. Cozy home, close to Catlins' attractions (from USD 92)

This comfortably furnished, rural residence features amenities that include a flat-screen television, excellent cell phone coverage, a fireplace, and a heater. The huge bay windows let in plenty of natural light into the house. This three bedroom and one bath house is just five minutes from the town of Owaka. Attractions, such as Jacks Bay and Blowhole, are 10 minutes away, while the Nugget Point Lighthouse is a 30-minute drive away. Relax in the garage game room, offering you a session of darts or pool.

Stayed at this property?
57 reviews   Wifi Available
House 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Another couple of stools/chairs tucked away to enable 6 of us to eat around the table together as
There is a lovely view and plenty of space outside
Many thanks for a great stay in your well equipped bach Stayed super cozy in both cold & warm temps
The house had everything we needed and our teenage kids loved the pool table Very comfortable beds lots of towels a well appointed kitchen and cosy fire and heat pump
This was such a comfortable place to stay Lovely cosy beds clean bathroom and kitchen
Cleanliness:
Gorgeous location house very clean and well equipped
Host:
Host was delightful and super helpful
Lovely Bach with awesome views
Beautiful views warm and cosy even on rainy days
An honest summary of a great property that checked out for our requirements
Great location close to any activities on the Catlins and with a great view and easy access Extremely well equipped with a comprehensive kitchen
Location:
There is a playground 5 minutes away and several near by beaches
Very good location just out of Owaka; comfortable and cosy cottage with great views out to the sea and estuary
Purakainui Falls is an excellent walk for little legs with lots to see along the way Highly recommend
Wonderful views and quiet location
the house was suitable safe and warm
Read more reviews

2. Comfortable and spacious beach house (from USD 80)

This spacious house offers sea views from the deck and the kitchen. Equipped with heating, modern appliances, and fixtures, this comfortable house offers quick access to most attractions in the Catlins. The two-bedroom, one-bathroom house is right next to a children’s playground and borders a reserve. The beach is a short stroll away, while there is a tennis court up the street. This residence is also within easy reach of a café and a bar. You can enjoy a relaxed stroll in the evening, talking one of the beautiful trails located close by.

Stayed at this property?
134 reviews   Wifi Available
House 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it was so easy and comfortable
A full kitchen for cooking meals but
A little further from the beach than expected and difficult to find with the road numbers being out of order
Great location right next to playground Would have liked to use the outdoor furniture if it was out as the weather was gorgeous
Thank you for the use of your crib
Cleanliness:
very clean and well presented
escape Clean and tidy
Lovely clean fresh and cosy house
Host:
Lovely wee batch nice and clean great shower
A lovely warm home to relax in
Warm with heat pump and gas hot water
Had a great few days well equipped very comfortable bed close to the beach and shops
Found property comfortable and cosy Suggest owner trims back some of the shrubbery then more sun would get into the property Recommend to travellers to stay
Location:
We love this sleepy little hollow lovely little pub just around the corner and nice walks on the beach
Great night away in a perfect wee home
Great place really enjoyed it Thanks so much
Weather lovely enjoyed the natural environment and all it offers Accomadation comfortable and relaxing Thanks
What a treat this bach is Weather bucketed down but this bach has everything one needed Very warm peaceful outlook
Read more reviews

3. Traditional family home, close to the beach (from USD 61)

This charming family home can sleep up to nine persons and has seen some recent home improvements. The old-school holiday home sits on the main street of Pounawea, adjacent to a camping ground. Owaka town is just a five-minute drive away and all the popular attractions of the region are easily accessible from here. The property has a fireplace, but it is not pet-friendly. It is strategically located, so as to enable you a leisurely stroll in the bush.

Stayed at this property?
105 reviews  
House 8 Guests 4 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Was a bit gutted to find that the bed in the main bedroom was full of mouse poos though
The heaters kept the house very cosy
It was as it was described and suited our needs
Wonderful part of our country to visit Humble cosy place to stay
Based on the honesty of how the Bach is
Host:
We really liked the retro decor Jedforest was a great place to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings as well as get out and explore the Catlins
We had a wonderful time staying here was all we needed Lovely waking up in the mornings to the nice fresh sea air
We stayed during July and were presently surprised by how warm we were
The property was clean & very homely Lovely & peaceful Lovely fire on a wet night & if you had children a well fenced property
We loved its quirkiness - very well set up - clean and great location
Location:
The property was a great location if exploring the Catlins
Was a lovely quirky bach in a awesome area
It is basic but was still perfect
A great place to stay bach was homely fun and welcoming The walks around the estuary and in the bush were surprisingly interesting and beautiful
A cute old crib makes stays feel like a good get away close to Owaka if you need supplies plenty to explore thanks for sharing this place
Read more reviews

4. Private hideaway, near the beach (from USD 94)

Located just a 15-minute drive from the Nugget Point Lighthouse, this charming residence is a great place to spend some time in solitude. When you are not out exploring the natural wonders that the region is known for, settle down with a book and the open gas fire, to warm you up. When it’s warm, you can throw open the French windows, for an abundance of natural light and air. Pets are allowed conditionally and you can smoke outdoors. Cleaning and linen are included.

Stayed at this property?
159 reviews   Wifi Available
House 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Has everything that you need for a couple's escape
We really enjoyed this comfy one room crib
saw some seals playing in the ponds at base of cliff
It was cosy and warm with everything we needed to relax and explore a little bit also
Beautiful bach Lovely and clean with excellent quality linen and toiletries provided Well stocked house with everything needed to be cosy and comfortable
Cleanliness:
The bach was beautifully clean
Nice and clean with everything you need
Host:
We really appreciated it being dog friendly and our dog loved her stay
Paul sent us fabulous access instructions beforehand
warm quiet welcoming and had everything we needed
We so appreciated the ability to take our dog
guessing owner does the same
Location:
A walk away from spectacular beach very private and safe
My partner and i loved the bach
Beach walks walk to the lighthouse
a fabulous locsl cafe/ bar within walking distance Cosy and romantic little cottage with every convenience you could wish for Magic
then i found the plywood
Read more reviews

5. Charming home away from home (from USD 77)

This cozy residence is a great place for a family vacation. Close to Kaka Point, this house comes with four bedrooms and one bathroom. In chilly weather, you can light a fire and play some old records, while you unwind in peace. Various exciting activities, such as diving, kayaking, and bush walks, are close to this property. Pets are not completely banned and speaking to the owner of the property might help you arrive at an agreement. This quaint home is a great gateway to the attractions in Catlin.

Stayed at this property?
129 reviews  
House 8 Guests 4 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 1
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Kitchen stocked with everything you need to cater for your group
No mirror in room with electric plug to sort hair for a wedding but had everything a NZ bach should and was clean and comfortable
There was even a Christmas tree on the table
Great place with everything you need for an enjoyable and relaxing holiday
I did see water dripping from the water pump under the house
Cleanliness:
Very clean and tidy house and had everything we needed
Host:
And she was super responsive and kind when we left something behind helping us to find it again Thanks so much
they were the only items missing from your home from home needs Loads of fire wood blankets
Bach basic family Bach clean and well equipped
outside seating areas awesome and a tennis court
Great Bach well equipped Excellent location for tripping about Loved the fire
Location:
The house is perfectly set up and great for families
Great location tucked away at top of hill great position for exploring the Catlins
Everything else great Lovely location Classic kiwi crib
Having the playground so close is fantastic
Read more reviews

6. Spacious, open-plan residence, near the water (from USD 74)

This three-bedroom house with an open plan comes with three bedrooms and a single bathroom. Owaka town is just five minutes away and has a small supermarket, for all your needs. Winter special rates are available for this property. There are plenty of recreational opportunities available to you near the house, such as fishing and playing golf.

Stayed at this property?
64 reviews  
House 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Its your basic kiwi bach Comfortable and has everything you need
The home has everything you need Close to the water front & surrounded be native plants & birds 4 adults & 6 children
free relaxing & enjoyable xmas spent in your bach
were a comfortable fit with 2 fold out sofas & plenty of games/puzzles to enjoy when the sun went down
Nice property in a great area house is large with a big kitchen with everything you could need
Cleanliness:
Property was as described very adequate for our stay
The house was clean and spacious with everything we needed - including a great selection of games
Host:
the only negative was the temperamental stove rings
Clean and tidy with good fixtures/fittings Would not hesitate to book again
walks kayaking and swimming spots
We are familiar from our growing up years with 1950s - 1980s homes
simple layout sizeable space against
Location:
Loved this house and it's location
It is very conveniently located close to some delightful walks and scenery and a short drive from Owaka for groceries dining and a visit to a very interesting museum
so we loved the bach nature of this house:
An awesome house in an awesome location
Surat Bay and Cannibal Bay are only a few minutes drive
Read more reviews

7. Beautiful home close to Jack's Bay (from USD 111)

This cozy property offers charming features, such as a wood burning fire and other simple comforts of home. The property is surrounded by trees that attract a variety of birds, providing you with great opportunities for some bird watching and photography. The front lawn is a great place to catch some beautiful sunsets and delight in the starry skies. Local attractions are a short drive away from this house, as is Owaka town.

Stayed at this property?
25 reviews   Wifi Available
House 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 1
Refund Policy :

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The beds were so comfortable & lovely to light the log burner in the evening
The beds were so comfortable & lovely to light the log burner in the evening
The view over the estuary is beautiful and everything was provided to make our stay comfortable
The surrounding gardens and trees added to the relaxing feel and the native birdlife was a bonus
Great place sitting on a hill a perfect vantage point to watch the changing light
Host:
Warm and toasty very comfortable
Definitely your quirky quintessential kiwi bach
Beautiful view surrounded by native birds Lovely and warm with fire going beds very comfy
Noelene and Bills home is exactly that a home away from home
We loved having the fireplace and the flexibility of lots beds
Location:
We loved the location for exploring the Catlins
This bach has a fantastic location sunrise and sunset views
Gorgeous view and perfect location in The Catlins Very handy to Owaka the main service town and so many of the attractions of the area
Easy access to Owaka for supplies or food Lovely clean bedlinen and towels
There's a good amount of outdoors lawn too but then again being perfectly in the middle of the Catlins we went exploring 25 min drive to Purakanui surf beach
Read more reviews

8. Delightful flat in Pounawea (from USD 123)

This four-bedroom flat, in the beautiful holiday town of Pounawea, is at the meeting point of two rivers. A semi-detached flat, it is situated in Kuramea Holiday Park, which has plenty of space for children to run around and have fun on their vacation. Less than a ten-minute drive from the heart of the town, this property is right across from Surat Bay, known for its sea lions and magnificent beaches. The kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, and an oven.

Stayed at this property?
21 reviews  
condo 11 Guests 4 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 11
Minimum Nights: 1
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The thoughtful touches like fresh flowers made this place feel like home
The fact that it was very quiet at night and the comfortable beds made it a great opportunity to recharge our batteries
The flat was attached to another
We experienced a sensitive smoke alarm that the manager came to help turn the noise off and how we could reset if it were it to go off again
lovely tidy flat and friendly management
Host:
The host was available and friendly
We all failed to understand the instructions to make the TV work so gave up Minor things really
tidy warm and a lovely stay
so the noise travelled Other than that the house was really nice
A great base to explore the hidden gems of the Catlins
Location:
Good location for the local sites
Location is great 45 mins to nugget point and 1 25 hour to curio bay and everything you want to see inbetween
Property is very well renovated and a good comfortably spot to come back to after s day exploring
Read more reviews

Have a great vacation!

Staying in a vacation home is a great way to experience life in a new place, without having to forego the comforts of home. The Bookabach holiday homes in the Catlins listed here are just a short list of options available to you.

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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Chandana is a versatile writer with nearly two decades of experience in media, spanning clients across the globe. An avid traveler, she enjoys experiencing every new place to the fullest. Having...Read more

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