Stewart Island, popularly known by its Maori name, Rakiura, or the ‘Land of Glowing Skies’, is a spectacular island paradise, located south of the South Island of New Zealand. Its rich Maori history, combined with its stunning coastal landscapes and exotic flora and fauna, makes Stewart Island a must-go for those who crave to be close to nature and are explorers at heart. 85 percent of the island is covered by the Rakiura National Park. Among the exciting things to do, you can go tramping, bird-watching, kayaking, fishing, or hunting, or simply lay back and sunbathe on the golden beaches. Or, you can gaze at the occasional Aurora Australis phenomenon – enjoy the relaxed New Zealand lifestyle in tune with the sea and tides at this off-beat destination. For comfy accommodation, continue reading to find out more about the top Airbnb vacation rentals on Stewart Island, 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 April 07, 2024.
1. Aurora Lodge (from USD 196)
Found in a peaceful neighborhood and overlooking the beautiful Traill Park where kiwis can be spotted, this holiday house on Stewart Island makes for a relaxing place to stay.
Surrounded by the scenic landscapes of Observation Rock, Paterson Inlet, Hananui/Mount Anglem, and Halfmoon Bay, the cozy haven is a great place to stay, especially for bird-watchers, hikers, and nature lovers. The queen-sized beds promise a full night’s rest after an eventful day of sightseeing.
Guests can lounge on the recliner swing and warm their spirits on a rainy afternoon with a glass of wine by the comforting embers of the fireplace. Other modern amenities include an internet connection that lets you stay connected with folks back home and a well-appointed kitchen for fixing meals when hunger strikes. A dining table is also furnished for the guests to sit down together and enjoy a flavorful meal.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the beds very comfortable and amenities are good for a short staycozy warm beautiful has everything you need incredible viewswould recommend kate's place to anyone wanting a comfortable stay on stewart islandvery comfortable and warmwe were warm and very comfortableCleanliness:
everything is clean and well maintainedit was really clean well-equipped and had everything that we neededkates home is cosy clean well equipped and perfect for a getawaythe view is phenomenal and the house was clean and tastefully furnishedHost:
most friendliest and helpful service evergreat hosts who were really helpfulkate and brett were great hostsjo's concierge meet and greet service was very helpfulwe appreciated the owners for providing us with such a wonderful place to stayRead more reviewsLocation:
lovely location nice and close to town but felt like miles awayfantastic stay the house was situated amongst the bush very close to observation point10/10 would recommend this place for anyone needing a relaxing and unique break from city lifeamazing location the hill is easier after a visit to the pub it had everything you neededloved our stay great location with views
2. Cozy accommodation with gorgeous views of Stewart Island (from USD 183)
Situated only a few steps away from the fishing pier of Golden Bay Wharf and Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary, the Airbnb accommodation on Stewart Island is an ideal choice for big families and couples.
Guests can soak in the unrivaled views of Stewart Island from the gorgeous deck of the house. Inside, you can pick up a good read from a nice collection in the living room or watch television while sipping a glass of Pinot Noir. The baby-friendly rental has a crib and high chair for toddlers and new parents will find it convenient here.
Planning a fun day of sightseeing and shopping? This Airbnb is a stone’s throw away from the shopping center of Glowing Sky where you can indulge in retail therapy. Need to pick up essentials? You can head to Four Square Supermarket. Fancy a drink with fish and chips? Kai Kart is the best bet for you.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the minor addition of an outside table and chairs would be awesomei had pretty good mobile phone coverage (spark) and the wifi was fast and reliablecoffee machine a plus and lovely little soaps in the bathroomquality house amazing views lovely beds nice bathrooms and plenty of seatingit was quite comfortable and clean and the view was spectacularCleanliness:
the place was clean and easy instructions to check inthe home is clean spacious and warm (central heating)we were greeted with a clean warm welcoming house with the amazing viewsfantastic views amazing location with clean and tidy homeHost:
bridget the owner is very lovely to communicate withthe host was very easy to communicate with and prompt to respond to any questions or requestsbridget is a lovely host very responsive and helpfulwas perhaps a one off… otherwise was a great spot and bridget wonderful airb&b hostRead more reviewsLocation:
beautiful house in a lovely locationbridget's was the absolute perfect location in every waybridget places was in a gorgeous location looking over the baymy organisation used this airbnb for business travels and the location/facilities were perfect for my colleagueswonderful place to spend four days at
3. Eco-lodge 50 meters (164 feet) from the sea (from USD 157)
Wake up to the soothing sound of the sea and twittering birds in this stylish eco-lodge, located 50 meters (164 feet) to the sea and 2.5 km (1.6 miles) from the center of Oban village. This beautiful and modern house, surrounded by manicured lawns and landscaped gardens, offers stunning views of the sea and lighthouse along the coastline. You can even observe blue penguins and wild kiwis on the property during the right season.
The eco-lodge accommodates two guests in one bedroom with an ensuite. You can enjoy a free breakfast in the glass-enclosed observatory with spectacular views of the sea. There are multiple tourist attractions nearby, like Old Neck, Earnest Island at the south of Mason’s Bay, the bird sanctuary and a kiwi-spotting trip to Ocean Beach. After an adventurous trip on Stewart Island, soak in the sauna or relax in front of the fireplace in the living room and enjoy your stay, in the heart of nature.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
a beautiful home with lovely views and the breakfast was excellent toothe guest room was great - we had a view of the bayan amazing breakfast and viewour room with the view over the bay and the house itself was amazingwith great view on the sea i could enjoy the delicious breakfast manfred made me each morningCleanliness:
it was spotlessly clean and then bed was greatexcellent accommodations: clean organized and welcomingit was clean with ample outdoor space to enjoy the views and weatherHost:
manfred and his family were great hoststhey are great hoststhe host was very knowledgeable and gave great tipsmanfred and his family were very welcoming and great hostsgreat hosts good breakfasts felt at homeRead more reviewsLocation:
outstanding location & welcomeeasy walk to towngreat location overlooking the bay/seaa great location to explore stewart island fromeasy to walk everywhere
4. Holiday house with a bay view near the town center (from USD 122)
Located within a five-minute walk to the town center and the ferry terminal, this rental in Oban is the perfect choice for relaxing on Stewart Island, with great bay views from the top deck or through the large picture windows in the house. The rental accommodates up to six guests in its three spacious bedrooms – two with queen beds and one with two king singles.
There is a cozy living room with glass doors that open out to the garden area and a well-equipped kitchen, where you can cook your meals. Modern facilities, like a TV, central heating, a washer and free parking on the premises, are available.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very comfortable bed good wifi cosy loungewe loved the wonderful views of the sky from the comfort of the living roomloved the wood stove for atmosphere though not required as the heater works greatgood diesel heater thats fast in warming upthe electric blanket on the beds were awesome and really kept us warmCleanliness:
great clean tidy place to stayspotlessly clean with all you need for a comfortable staythe rooms were spacious clean and well decoratedexcellent house condition and cleanliness and hostingexcellent place to stay it is well supplied clean and tidyHost:
friendly and helpful hostsharon picked us up from the ferry and was very kind and helpfulon arrival we were picked up and shown around town by the property manager which was very helpfuland the hosts were fantastic - friendly responsive helpful and thoughtful (ealso information tour was very helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
great location only a short walk from the centrea very well located and comfortable housenice place close to towneasy walking location to shops and puba really well situated house close to everything you need while on the island
5. House on a cliff with a great bay view (from USD 160)
Perched atop a cliff, yet close to the city center, this stylish new house offers magnificent views of Halfmoon Bay with a backdrop of the Rakiura hills and mountains. The house accommodates up to six guests in its two bedrooms – one with a double bed and the other with a double and bunk beds. Watch the boats sail by in the bay right from the comfort of your own bedrooms, both of which open out to a large deck area with fascinating views of the bay.
Relax in the large, open-plan living room with huge glass doors that leads to the deck area and lawns. Brightly sunlit during the day, the log-burner keeps the house toasty warm at night, catering to your complete comfort. Amenities, like a fully-equipped kitchen to cook your meals, central heating, a washer and free parking on the premises, are provided.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the house has good view glass windows and deck let us feel comfortableyou even get the stunning views from the bedroom/comfy bedsthis place has an amazing view it was toasty warm very comfortable and had everything we neededfantastic view from a gorgeous and comfortable home with all that holidaymakers needCleanliness:
the house was clean and almost had everything we need in itthis place is amazing very comfortable and spotlesswe loved the bird life right on the doorstep clean tidy place and great communication from rebeccacosy & warm very clean & tidy and truly great views highly recommendit’s perfectly clean with all the emenities that you’ll needHost:
rebecca was the perfect host responsive warm and friendlylocal people live around are friendlythe views are amazing rebecca was a great host and very easy to communicate withRead more reviewsLocation:
fabulous location and friendly birds around the propertysuperb location in a beautiful house with charming hoststhe house is toasty warm and the perfect location to be based on the islandbrilliant place to stay whilst exploring this piece of paradiseexcellent location with amazing views - well worth the walk up the hill
6. Spacious beachfront house with a van (from USD 474)
If you are traveling in a large group, then this rental, accommodating up to eight guests and offering an eight-seater van with fuel, is ideal for you! This beachfront property has captivating views of Lonnekers Beach from its large deck area on the upper level. The tastefully-decorated house has a spacious living and dining room with large glass windows, from where you can gaze at the sea. There’s also an open kitchen with a breakfast table.
There are four comfortable bedrooms with three bathrooms in the house. Modern amenities, like a TV, washer, central heating and free parking on the premises, are provided.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
loved the view the lounge and the kitchenthe two kitchen are new and well equipped - a pleasure to usethe beds were very comfortable and we had a wonderful staythe rooms are beautiful and new the whole place is designed with a lot of tasteCleanliness:
house was very clean bedrooms and bathrooms wonderful kitchen had everything we neededHost:
debbie was a great host and the house is quite remarkabledebbie was fantastic host and very helpful with local knowledgeour host debbie was really good at communicating with me before i arrivedthanks debbie - who was a great hostRead more reviewsLocation:
stunning location to explore stewart islandfantastic accommodation in a great locationexcellent location close to town but felt like no one was around youthe house was fabulous and in an amazing locationthis is an amazing location overlooking the ocean
7. House with a car near Watercress Beach (from USD 190)
Located right across the road from the golden sands of Watercress Beach, with spectacular views of the Patterson Inlet and Ulva Island, the Beech Bach is the perfect haven for couples and solo adventurers. This rental has a cozy queen bedroom with a private bathroom. You can enjoy the sea view from the large bay windows in the living room and occasionally catch a glimpse of the dolphins at play!
There is a fully-equipped kitchen, where you can cook your own meals. Free transfers from the ferry or airport are provided, as well as the use of a car, for the duration of your stay.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the view from the living room is stunning like a magnet to the eyesthe view from all rooms was greatnice space with amazing views i enjoyed the very functional kitchen and comfortable bedmain space has a good heater so it’s nice and cozygood oven washing machine bed with viewsCleanliness:
thoughtfully equipped and spotlessly cleanlovely spot clean dolphins out of the window outside toilet but all was fantastic for usa simple but warm clean stylish 2 person retreat with a gorgeous viewHost:
hosts go above and beyond to make your stay comfortablefiona was so friendly and met us at the ferry and dropped us off - super convenientfiona and heath were really helpful toohaving the car was helpful for getting across the island to lee bayRead more reviewsLocation:
fantastic location overlooking golden baygreat location on the island and very well appointedthule bay is beautiful and easy walk to obangreat location and very cleanwonderful location and friendly locals “the way nz used to be”
8. Cozy cottage for five near the Rakiura National Park (from USD 110)
Sandra’s stunning home, The Island Crib, is close to the renowned Rakiura National Park and a nearby beach down the road. The holiday home on Stewart Island is perfect for small friend groups and families who wish to get away from the city bustle and experience nature like no other. The Island Crib is a rustic three-bedroom cottage for five guests max with access to amenities like the fully decked kitchen, bathroom essentials for the toilet and shower, as well as free parking, TV, and heating for those cold nights out. Guests can also borrow the property’s kayaks, which also have life jackets for groups who wish to do some lake exploration. Make the most out of your getaway escape and be one with nature while bonding with your loved ones.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
clean and in a great locationRead more reviewsLocation:
great location for heading off along the rakiura trackalso very close to where we found a kiwi which was very special thanks againa great place to stay
9. Modern house with a car near Ringaringa Beach (from USD 121)
This one is comparatively a cheap accommodation on Stewart Island. The compact, modern house is located in a serene spot, overlooks Ringaringa Bay, and is an excellent choice for a quiet vacation by the beach. Enjoy the stunning sea view from the beautiful conservatory in the house and marvel at the fascinating pelagic birds, white-tailed deer, kiwis, and penguins that sometimes visit the property. A track immediately opposite the doorway leads to the beach.
The house accommodates up to seven guests and has two spacious bedrooms, an open-plan living area with a TV, Wi-Fi, an indoor fireplace, and an equipped kitchen. There is also a car at your disposal, for exploring Stewart Island with ease!
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the heated beds were greatlovely views a warm sunroom to breakfast and read/chat inplenty of room nice yard and sun roomthe home provides a lovely view and several rooms to enjoy it fromthere's a sun room with fantastic viewsCleanliness:
house very clean with wood burning stove to keep you warmclean and tidy home with plenty of spacea wonderful clean house with everything available that we neededglorious seclusion and the house has everything you’d need and was spotlessa lovely clean house with great views across the bayHost:
the manager mona was very friendly and helpfulmary and mona are both very helpful and great to deal withmary and mona the caretaker were really responsive and helpfulthe house is warm and host welcomingfantastic mary and her house keeper mana were very friendlyRead more reviewsLocation:
fabulous location absolutely beautiful and peacefulthe house is in a beautiful locationgreat location on the hill overlooking the seabeautiful location and the car was really handy for getting around the islanda very comfortable cottage in a great location which perfectly suited our needs for a three day stay
10. Gorgeous A-frame property for four in two-bedroom garden front home
One thing that’s great about homestays and Airbnbs is the locale that comes with the space. If you’re a keen traveler eager to experience Oban, stay at Willy’s a few nights and enjoy the green landscapes that surround his beautiful two-bedroom home. The stunning house is a traditional A-frame type situated in a peaceful and quiet area, where guests can catch incredible sunset views after a long day of exploring. Guests will be sleeping on a king-sized bed and two single beds for those with kids, and also have access to basic amenities like Wifi, free parking, hot water, and bathroom essentials. The best feat of this property is the scattered fauna around the garden area, with unique native birds like the kaka, kereru, and kakariki birds that are popular in New Zealand.
Oban, Southland, New Zealand
36.37 km (22.6 mi) from Stirling PointTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
breakfast on the balcony was perfect with an incredible view of halfmoon bayit is a beautiful home with a great view and a cozy interiora fantastic place to stay warm and comfortable with great views of halfmoon baybreakfast being included is a really nice touchwhat a great place such a luxurious room and beautiful viewCleanliness:
the room and bathroom was very clean and warmthe place was very clean and warm and welcomingvery comfortable bed really clean fantastic viewsit was very clean and tidy and the included breakfast was very enjoyableHost:
willie was a very good hostbeautiful home with a friendly hostwilly was a caring and considerate host who made the space extra special with special touchesbeautiful space with great character and thoughtful hostswilly was really kind and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
an excellent location when staying on stewart islanda home in a stunning location walkable distance to everythinggreat place to stay near the centre of obanthis place is great easy to walk to from the ferryawesome location 5 minute walk from the wharf beautiful and clean facilities good information on the island book here
11. Queen bedroom in a charming B&B with a sea view
Perfect for couples or solo travelers, this charming house with a beautiful floral garden in Lonnekers Point has scintillating sea views and is a short walk to popular Halfmoon Bay and Lonnekers Beach. The rental offers a cozy queen bedroom with a shared bathroom and serves free breakfast, as well! You can access the large living room and music room and enjoy the breathtaking views from the gorgeous gardens in the property. Modern amenities, like a TV, Wi-Fi, a washer, central heating and free parking on the premises, are available for your comfort.
Stewart Island, Southland, New Zealand
35.9 km (22.4 mi) from Stirling PointTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bed was comfortable lin & lorraine were friendly and hospitable and the gardens an array of colorful flowersthe breakfasts were some of the best we’ve had in our many airbnb staysCleanliness:
the room was spacious clean comfortable and private with beautiful decorand she took our extra luggage (laptops & clean clothes) back to the nestit was clean quiet and comfortable with gracious and friendly hostsRead more reviewsHost:
you are a wonderful hostlorraine and lindsay were perfect hostsan amazing stay with wonderful hostslin and lorraine are the most wonderful hostslorraine and lyn are both wonderful hosts and wonderful people
12. Private house 350 meters (1,148.3 feet) from town
This private house, located 350 meters (1,148.3 feet) from the township, is a perfect choice for setting up a base to explore Stewart Island. The Whalers Nest accommodates up to five guests in its three comfortable bedrooms, with large bay windows and bush views that give you a feeling of staying close to nature. You can even observe a variety of birds, like tui, wood pigeons, bellbirds and kakas on the property gardens.
There is a spacious lounge with a dining area and an open kitchen for cooking your own food. You can relax in the evenings by the fireplace in the lounge. The house is kid-friendly, as well, and provides various amenities, like a highchair, crib and children’s books and toys.
35.82 km (22.3 mi) from Stirling PointSuperhost
Accommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wonderful place—birdwatching from the bed brush up on how to work a wood stovecomfortable beds lots of space and the fire was amazingjane's place is so much more comfortable than the photos suggestgreat to have sports on tvCleanliness:
janes place was clean tidy and comfortablethe place was nice and clean and the hosts easy to communicate withHost:
really helpful host who went out of her way to help us outthe host are really nice who help us to take our luggages to the bina lovely house and lovely hostskiwi sighted right outside very easy communication with hostRead more reviewsLocation:
great location and super close to the portgreat location just a very short walk to “town”great house and locationexcellent walks close to hand and a short walk to obanperfect location in a property that suits your trip perfectly
13. Apartment 1 with a car near a secluded beach
If you are looking for a comfortable stay with friends or family near a secluded beach, then this spacious apartment, located at Rakiura Retreat with a stepped pathway to a beautiful beach, is ideal for you! Additionally, the rental comes with a car with petrol, which enables you to visit the beautiful bays nearby, as well as the rest of the island.
The apartment, with all the modern facilities, like Wi-Fi, a TV, central heating and free parking on the premises, houses up to six guests in its two bedrooms and two extra wall-beds in the living room. Enjoy a barbeque on the outdoor deck area, go bird-watching in the bush around the house or set out at night with torches in search of kiwis in the garden – this house ensures you have a wonderful family vacation on Stewart Island.
Oban, Stewart Island, Southland, New Zealand
35.05 km (21.8 mi) from Stirling PointAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable stay with good amenitieslovely view peaceful setting very warm and comfortableall the amenities we needed for a really comfortable easy staypleasant during good weather with outdoor tables / chairs etc but also cosy when weather not so gooda wonderful place to stay the apartment was well-equipped cosy and had amazing views across the bayCleanliness:
very good accomodation - clean and tidythe place was clean and spacious especially for 2 peopleHost:
wonderful cheerful helpful hostslovely host very nice and helpfulthe hosts fiona and heath were fabulouslorraine's on ground host fiona made us feel so welcomedfiona the manager was extremely helpful and graciousRead more reviewsLocation:
great place in a stunning locationgreat location a must if travelling to stewart islandthe location is terrific if you want quiet and easy access to many great walksreally beautiful scenic location and apartment had everything we neededvery nice location helpful and friendly hosts
14. Apartment 2 with a car near three beaches
Great for a comfortable beachside stay with friends or family, this spacious apartment, located at Rakiura Retreat, is close to three beaches, walking tracks and a national park. The rental comes with a car and petrol, which enables you to visit the beautiful bays nearby, as well as the rest of the island. The apartment houses up to six guests in its two bedrooms and two extra wall-beds in the living room. There is also a fold-up bed that can be put in the second bedroom.
It has all the modern facilities, like Wi-Fi, a TV, central heating and free parking on the premises, Enjoy a barbeque on the outdoor deck area, go bird-watching in the bush around the house or explore Stewart Island by the car – your vacation could not get any better!
Stewart Island, Southland, New Zealand
34.91 km (21.7 mi) from Stirling PointAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
lorraine ‘s place was warm and comfortable and with a stunning view on topgood beds good facilities and an amazing viewlorraine's apartments are a really good size with nice warm heating in winterplus everything necessary for a very comfortable stayfiona who managed activities at the facility does an outstanding job and is very friendly upbeat and efficientCleanliness:
accommodation was clean and tidyexcellent property extremely clean and practicalthe place is older but was clean and comfortablethe rooms themselves were clean and comfortable with nice decorthe rooms were very clean and there was a kitchen with refrigerator stove small oven and microwave ovenHost:
very welcoming hosts who went out of their way to help uslorraine is a really kind hostlorraine was a wonderful hostgreat staff who were fun knowledgable and very accomadatingeveryone was very helpful and lovely to deal withRead more reviewsLocation:
beautiful location on stewart islandgreat apartments in a lovely locationgreat location just above a golden beachgreat location with a car and cozy aptperfect location to be apart of the spirit of stewart island
Experience an exotic island vacation on Stewart Island
Stewart Island, or Rakiura, is an off-beat island destination to the south of New Zealand. Explore flora and fauna, captivating coastal scenery, and Maori culture on this beautiful island. For a homey experience, you will find plenty of comfy Bookabach accommodations and Airbnbs in the area. Ensure your perfect holiday on Stewart Island by staying at one of these top Airbnb vacation rentals on our list.
Frequently asked questions about Airbnb vacation rentals on Stewart Island, New Zealand
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