Dunedin is a beautiful city on New Zealand’s South Island. Travellers here would love to explore Larnach Castle & Gardens, New Zealand’s sole castle, dating back to 1871. This architectural gem is renowned for its opulent 3,000 square-foot (278.71 square-metre) ballroom, where high tea is a daily delight at 3pm. The city’s vibrant spirit comes alive through Dunedin Street Art Trail, a captivating journey through eccentric artworks adorning corners, alleyways and building facades. The trail invites you to explore its urban creativity in just 90 minutes. To delve deeper into the city’s past, Toitū Otago Settlers Museum provides an immersive experience. Here, trace Dunedin’s history from its early Māori inhabitants to European settlers, featuring nostalgic trolley buses and vintage cars.
Are you finally planning a trip and looking for a cosy beachside stay in this gorgeous city? Check out these best beachfront hotels in Dunedin, New Zealand.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and location with easy access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 15, 2024.
1. Hotel St Clair (from USD 155)
Nestled along the pristine shores of St Clair Beach, this beachfront hotel offers a truly immersive seaside experience. With some rooms boasting magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views of the tranquil ocean, you can wake up to the soothing sound of waves and the sight of endless horizons.
What’s more, the resort’s greatest treasure lies right at your doorstep – direct access to St Clair Beach, allowing you to take leisurely strolls along the sandy shores. And to make your stay even more convenient, free parking is available, ensuring a hassle-free arrival.
Hotel St Clair
Address: 24 Esplanade, St Clair
Other beachfront accommodations in Dunedin, New Zealand
2. The Hydro Esplanade Apartments (from USD 167)
These stunning apartments are located opposite Dunedin’s popular St Clair Beach. Each of the well-appointed units comes with the added convenience of free WiFi, ensuring you stay connected while relishing the mesmerising ocean views.
Guests can enjoy a delectable meal at the award-winning, on-site Italian restaurant, where culinary excellence meets seaside ambience. Travel arrangements are made hassle-free with the option of a paid airport shuttle service. Additionally, there’s an on-site bar that invites you to unwind and toast to the breathtaking vistas that await just steps from your doorstep.
The Hydro Esplanade Apartments
Address: 2 Esplanade St Clair Dunedin
3. Esplanade Apartments (from USD 178)
Reasonable pricing for spacious, well-appointed apartments with oceanfront views.
Quality amenities including comfortable beds, off-street parking, and a pool table for entertainment.
Perfect seaside location with easy access to restaurants, cafes, and the beach.
Numerous nearby dining options, including a great Italian restaurant, and a deli with delicious breakfast.
Another beach-facing property with a stylish interior and breathtaking views is Esplanade Apartments. Each of the units boasts a cosy seating area, a kitchen and a welcoming dining area, ensuring that you have all the comforts of home at your fingertips.
For those seeking a touch of outdoor bliss, some of the rooms even offer a private terrace or balcony. Families can relish the spaciousness of the Two-Bedroom Apartment, complete with its own outdoor dining area for memorable gatherings. Worried about parking? Worry no more, as the property provides free private parking on-site.
Esplanade Apartments
Address: 14 Esplanade St Clair
4. Lovely waterfront home with gardens (from USD 79)
Just an 18-minute drive from Dunedin lies the wonderful settlement of Broad Bay. Here, you’ll discover this cosy home offering picturesque views of the glistening waters, just steps away from a sandy beach. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, this haven boasts both front and back gardens, allowing you to soak up the serene ambience.
Inside, the home features an equipped kitchen complete with a fridge, oven, microwave and more. And if you’re travelling with friends or family, worry not; additional bunk beds are available to accommodate everyone, ensuring a delightful escape in this coastal paradise.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
amazing view from the dining table and bedroom the house was lovely and warm when we arrived lateheater works well so is very warmlovely place amazing view over the water comfy beds and retro vibeold style homely & comfortable with everything we neededwarm & cosy home comfortable beds great location and stunning view from the dining nookCleanliness:
had to clean oven which was filthyit was clean warm and homelynice clean house and easy check inlinen was clean and beds were super comfortableHost:
our hosts were amazing we will be back next timevery hospitable and lovely people as wellshukuru and neil are absolutely lovely hosts so easy to communicate with and very consideratethe service from the hosts was good but how much lipstick can you put on a pigthe host seemed really lovely but i don't think the pictures were a true reflection of the houseRead more reviewsLocation:
great location like staying at a family batchgreat location for peninsula activities with a 20 minute scenic drive into townclose enough to the city for easy coming and going yet quiet and peacefulnice warm place and the location and views were great very close to so many attractionsneil’s place is a great traditional kiwi type of house set in a one off location
5. Tranquil beachside retreat with balcony (from USD 91)
Located just a short distance from St Clair Beach, this charming retreat offers a welcoming lounge space adorned with plush couches, perfect for unwinding after a day of seaside adventures. As the sun rises, step out onto the balcony to savour your morning coffee while basking in the tranquil surroundings.
For those chillier evenings, heaters and extra linen can be readily provided, ensuring your utmost comfort. Beyond the doorstep lies a delightful beachside community, complete with a heated outdoor saltwater pool and a vibrant playground, inviting you to explore and create lasting memories by the sea.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
warm and cozy home with great location and wonderful view of st clair beachwe had a lovely 2 nights - the home was comfortable with fabulous views of the beachexcellent kitchen well equippeda really beautiful and handy location excellent view and the house was warm and very comfortablevery comfortable place to stay with everything you needCleanliness:
clean and comfortable home with interesting decorthe house is comfortable clean and welcomingwell supplied kitchen safe and clean home had a great staylovely and clean and bed really comfyspotlessly clean super comfy beds and just a gorgeous wee ‘home away from home’Host:
helpful hosts and good communicationthe hosts jeff and joanne are warm and welcoming - although we didn’t actually meet themjoanne and jeff were also very responsive and accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
wonderful location; restaurant/cafe life for taking things easythe location was excellent being a five minute walk from st claira perfect location and a lovely place to get away from it allamazing location and a cosy inviting place to spend christmaswe had an excellent stay the location was excellent - 2 minute walk to st clair shops
Superhost
6. Charming studio with gorgeous views (from USD 91)
This waterfront studio offers an unforgettable experience with its spectacular views of Otago Harbour, which enchant both day and night. The cosy space is equipped with modern amenities, including a smart TV and high-speed internet, ensuring that you stay connected and entertained throughout your visit.
A washer and dryer is available so you can refresh your wardrobe as needed. You’ll also find complimentary refreshments awaiting your arrival, adding a thoughtful touch to your stay. And don’t forget to indulge in the delightful, complimentary continental breakfast.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
lovely views comfortable bedloved sitting at the table on the balcony soaking up the views of otago harbour and the sunbeautiful views in a lovely little deco apartmentsmall terrace with table ideal for breakfast with a view above the traffic belowwell laid out studio space and extremely comfortableCleanliness:
it was clean and well appointedthe studio was very cleaneverything was clean and tidy and the fridge was well stockedvery clean and well equipped highly recommendclean place comfortable bed nice outlookHost:
host was great to deal withpeter was very friendly and courteouscheck in and check out was easy instructions were given by host prior to our arrivalRead more reviewsLocation:
great location for visiting larnach castle glenfallock gardens and the albatross centrevery happy with accomodation and locationa lovely spot looking across the harbour to the central citygood location for exploring dunedin with lovely viewspeter’s place is perfect for a short stay
7. The Anchorage (from USD 70)
Nestled on the tranquil waterfront of Broad Bay, this cosy retreat offers a perfect escape from the bustling world. Inside, you’ll find block-out curtains that ensure restful sleep. Moreover, the thoughtfully provided complimentary milk, tea and coffee add a warm touch to your stay.
Outside, the front flower garden and spacious deck invite you to unwind, soak up the scenic views and savour the serenity. For those who crave the sizzle of a summer barbecue, feel free to fire up the grill and enjoy a delightful cookout.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
clean amenities and the a heaterthis place is cozy has thoughtful amenities and a beautiful view in a lovely locationgreat bed with very soft linen good heating system in room and bathroomsuper cute and cozy studio loft appartment well supplied amenities and nice personal touches good getaway from the citya warm and cosy studio that is very well set up with basic cooking facilitiesCleanliness:
really clean and comfy spacemarty's place was very clean with nice personal touchesthe loft was spotlessly clean and homelycomfortable clean warm and relaxing atmospherethe place is clean well-equipped and spaciousHost:
host very friendly and helpfulbeautiful area and fantastic hosts :)very friendly host and host will raise the flag of guest countrya nice part of new zealand and a nice host toowonderful cosy place with our knowledgeable host marty we enjoyed our stay very muchRead more reviewsLocation:
great location for exploring the peninsulamarty’s place is situated in a great locationgreat location on the otago peninsulagreat wee place and locationperfectly situated quiet and relaxing place
8. Beautiful cabin with wonderful harbour views (from USD 72)
This self-contained cabin bathes in warm, all-day sunshine, making it the ideal setting for a romantic holiday escape. Equipped with all the comforts you need, from pristine linen and fluffy towels to complimentary shampoo and soap, this cosy haven ensures a worry-free stay.
With off-road parking at your disposal, your journey here is as effortless as the retreat itself. Step outside onto the cabin’s porch, where outdoor chairs invite you to unwind and enjoy breathtaking views of the tranquil harbour, creating cherished moments to remember.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great view from the bed of the bay and the cruise liners coming incozy cabin and wonderful view we would recommend staying herethe view is stunning the bed was super comfortable and it was great value for the moneysmall cozy cabin with nice bathroomthe space was spot on and very comfortable for my 2 nights stayCleanliness:
the place is clean and and comfortablecabin was clean and tidy and bedding warmit was very clean and cosygreat little cabin really clean and tidyeverything as described perfectly clean and nicely situatedHost:
karen was a very kind and thoughtful hostexcellent host and an aweosme cabinkeren and jason are very kind and friendly hostshighly recommend staying here lovely place and an amazing hostkeren is a very friendly and helpful hostRead more reviewsLocation:
lovely cabin in a quiet location but close to lots of attractionslots of nice walks nearby and only a short drive to a local grocery shopfairly remote location unless you want to drive although great bus service to the nearest barthe cabin is in a great location for visiting the otago peninsularcute little place with everything you need for a night
9. Stunning waterfront guesthouse with bay view (from USD 83)
This charming guesthouse is nestled within the quaint community of Broad Bay. One of the bedrooms boasts a picturesque view of the lush garden, a haven where you can often spot the enchanting Tuis and Bellbirds gracefully perched in the swaying trees.
Just a short stroll down a winding path from the garden, you’ll discover a hidden rocky beach perfect for those delightful crab-catching adventures. For the little ones, there’s a spacious, sun-drenched lawn where they can run and play to their hearts’ content, complete with a bouncy trampoline that promises endless hours of laughter and excitement.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
its a very comfortable space with adobe type styling (at least it reminded me of santa fe usa)loved the garden view fresh eggs for breakfast and board game loanelle’s place was very comfortable and had everything we neededgreat beds would definitely come backit was warm and comfortable and we would happily come backCleanliness:
a clean comfortable and welcoming guesthouseimmaculately clean and has everything you could need and moreHost:
the host was extremely lovely and helpfulshe is such great hostshe was super friendly and helpfulelke was a wonderful host who went above and beyond to make our stay comfortableyou and pat are really amazing hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is brilliant - right on the peninsulaclose to the village of portobello and the beautiful peninsulaquiet comfortable set up in awesome locationvery nice place beautiful locationlovely place and fantastic location
10. Pudding Island Cottage (from USD 167)
This quiet waterside house is for those looking to relish the beauty of New Zealand’s stunning landscapes. The allure of this place lies in its large windows that frame breathtaking views. Step out onto the spacious and sun-drenched deck, where you can leisurely watch ships gracefully glide across the picturesque harbour.
The cottage garden, a symphony of colours, promises something in bloom throughout the year. Whether you’re seeking a weekend escape or a longer retreat, the minimum stay of two nights invites you to savour the magic of this idyllic waterfront abode.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
bed was comfortable and had all the needed amenities in the cottagethe lounge area is nicely separate from the kitchen and has the same view as the deckthe view is gorgeous (as is the garden) and the cottage was comfortable and had everything we neededa highlight of our trip large spacious comfortable cottage with a stunning viewpudding island is a beautiful personal cozy house with great views to the seaCleanliness:
clean inside with everything you needthe house was clean and had everything we neededwarm and comfortable we were impressed with the cleanliness and presentationthe place itself is very private and was very clean and well equippedbeautiful spot with great views and a lovely clean home with everything you need for a comfortable stayHost:
graham & sandi's place is amazing and the hosts are very hospitalableexcellent hosts we recommend this pinch of paradise and we will certainly go backwonderful hosts with fast communicationRead more reviewsLocation:
great house in an amazing locationgreat location with walking distance access to shops & restaurantsa lovely house in an amazing locationalso close to other lovely walksgreat spot very cute place :)
Enjoy a memorable waterfront vacation in Dunedin
In Dunedin, the past and present harmoniously coexist, making it a destination that resonates with both history buffs and art enthusiasts. For a cosy waterfront stay, check out the above-given list of the best beachfront hotels in Dunedin, New Zealand.
History
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