Vacation rentals in South Bay

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Top-rated vacation rentals in South Bay

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Superhost
A modern house featuring a sloped roof with a green overhang. Large windows allow natural light to fill the living area. A spacious deck wraps around the house, providing outdoor space for relaxation, surrounded by lush greenery and a wooden fence.
Home in Kaikōura
4.8 out of 5 average rating, 179 reviews

A quiet place to stay with stunning mountain views

A lovely place to stay in Kaikōura with mountain views, all day sun and a private deck. Not even a 5 minute drive to town center. It is the 3rd house down a private lane, parking right by the house. Large open plan living area and good sized bedrooms. West boundary is a peaceful creek (be aware of this if you have children). A great heat pump and additional big log burner will keep you warm during the winter months with a heat distribution system to keep you warm in the bedrooms. No WiFi sorry!

Top guest favourite
A dining area features a round glass table surrounded by four brown chairs. Large sliding doors open to a deck with panoramic views of the sea and greenery. A small camera tripod and potted plants are visible in the foreground, adding to the inviting ambiance.
Home in Kaikōura
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 102 reviews

Coco's Cabin

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Coco's Cabin is a small home on the Kaikoura Peninsula with amazing sea views. Watch the moon rise over the water from the comfort of the couch. And get ready for truly spectacular sunrises. If you're lucky you might even spot a humpback whale/ dolphins. A swimming beach is a short walk away, and you can drive to the town centre in 5 minutes. There is a small bedroom with a double bed/ensuite and a loft with an Ecosa sofa bed. There's no tv.

Top guest favourite
A modern two-story home is showcased, featuring a striking architectural design with a gabled roof. A balcony is visible on the upper level, surrounded by greenery. The driveway is paved, leading to a dark garage door, with landscaped gardens framing the entrance.
Home in South Bay
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 128 reviews

Seaside Serenity

Enjoying glorious views of the Kaikōura Ranges, this charming yet contemporary home will win you over with everything it has on offer. Perfectly positioned and offering fabulous indoor and outdoor living, you are sure to settle right in. Kaikōura is a magical destination. Enjoy coastal scenery and wildlife. You’ll find the Dolphin and Whale Watch Encounters and the local Seal Colony all only a few minutes drive away. The start of the Kaikōura Peninsula Walk is also only a few minutes stroll.

Top guest favourite
The exterior of the chalets is showcased, featuring natural wood siding and a covered porch furnished with several wooden chairs. The gravel pathway leads to the entrance, with landscaped greenery and trees providing a serene setting against a blue sky.
Guesthouse in Kaikoura Flat
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 164 reviews

Deerbrooke Kaikōura Chalets Unit 1

These one bedroom purpose built brand new chalets offer luxury living with a super large shower, bath and a large lounge with a kitchenette. The Chalets have King beds, sofas, TV with sky channels, new fibre network, plenty of off street parking and own laundry facilities. Situated on State Highway One and only a 3 minute drive to the Kaikoura township. Discover what Kaikoura has to offer within a short distance of you Chalets...Whale watching, Dolphin Swimming, Swim with the seals, Kayaking.

Top guest favourite
The exterior of the apartment building is characterized by a spacious balcony and large glass windows, allowing for ample natural light. Lush greenery surrounds the entrance, including well-maintained shrubs and decorative plants, enhancing the inviting appearance of the space.
Apartment in Kaikōura
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 363 reviews

Phoenix Palm

Our very spacious one bedroom apartment is downstairs under our house with its own entrance and spacious patio to enjoy the view of the garden and distant mountains. Tea , coffee and milk are provided upon arrival. We are 2kms from the town center , 3.5kms to Whale Watch therefore if you are arriving by bus or train and walking our accommodation may not suit you 😊 We are 2.8kms to the Seal Colony and Peninsula Walkway. On the way is the Original Seafood Caravan which is very popular.

Top guest favourite
A wooden ledge is shown with a ceramic cup, overlooking sweeping views of the ocean and mountains. Lush green foliage frames the scene, enhancing the sense of connection to nature. The calm water reflects the soft colors of the landscape.
Guesthouse in Kaikōura
5 out of 5 average rating, 200 reviews

Clifftop Cabins Kaikoura - Ruby

Stunning sunsets and uninterrupted views to the north, the lower Cabin - Ruby named after the rock formation in the ocean below. Offers unparalleled views of the Kaikoura coastline. Walking distance to the beach and just a 5 minute drive from local cafes and restaurants, you'll find the Clifftop Cabins tucked away on the peaceful Kaikoura Peninsula. Enjoy magical sunsets from the outdoor bath, or relax on the lawn with a glass in hand, ready to spot a passing whale or pod of dolphins.

Top guest favourite
A quirky cottage exterior is shown, featuring vibrant yellow and orange paneling. The porch includes two unique chairs and a small table, surrounded by greenery. A gravel path leads to the entry, where double doors with large windows offer a glimpse of the cozy interior.
Cottage in Kaikōura
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 334 reviews

The Pohutukawa Cottage...Tranquil and Unusual

Quirky cottage completely renovated using as many recycled materials as possible with some special touches. Recycled materials were used from The Art Deco Mayfair threatre in Kaikoura. Also materials used from The Adelphi Hotel built in 1918. Kitchen custom made out of recycled cross arms off power polls and various other native timbers. Modern conveniences with stacks of retro and rustic charm. Enjoy a hot outdoor bath with a view to the mountains and two minutes walk to the beach.

Guest favourite
A spa is situated on a wooden deck, offering a view of the snow-capped mountains in the background. Nearby, picnic tables are arranged on the gravel, surrounded by lush greenery. The sky is clear with scattered clouds, enhancing the serene outdoor setting.
Hut in Hapuku
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 198 reviews

Kiwa Eco Escapes - Te Piringa (The Haven)

A rustic & cosy cabin in the outskirts of Kaikōura. Showcasing Aotearoa, NZ's beauty; with mountains' one side & beach the other. Enjoy a relaxing time here in nature. Views of the Kaikōura Ranges, ocean views & a short stroll to the Hāpuku River. Unbelievable stars at night. Meat Works world famous surf spot just across the road. Also spa, BBQ, outdoor bath/shower. Escape the city & enjoy a break with us! Hunting & diving available to add on to your stay! Contact us for more details.

Guest favourite
The private deck features wooden flooring and is surrounded by a pink exterior wall of the house. Lounge chairs with blue and orange stripes are positioned for relaxation, while the glass door offers access to the interior space.
Home in South Bay
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviews

Pink Palace , South Bay Kaikoura

Welcome to Pink Palace our little piece of paradise. Enjoy the fresh salt air, walk across the road to beach, easy access to the boat ramp, short walk to local park/playground for kids, peninsula walkway and 5 mins drive to Kaikoura township. Situated on a rear section, standalone two bedroom home with private deck to enjoy the sunshine. WIFI available. Plenty off parking for boats off the street. Pink Palace is perfect for small families or Two Adults.

Guest favourite
An outdoor deck area is presented, featuring a large table surrounded by colorful chairs. A shaded canopy extends overhead, providing protection from the sun. A pink beanbag is positioned nearby, with windows revealing glimpses of the picturesque surroundings.
Cottage in South Bay
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 109 reviews

Beachfront Salty Dog Cottage, South Bay, Kaikōura

Out the gate and into the ocean! Swim, fish, dive! Everything here for a beach break with an expansive front lawn for parking the boat, playing with the kids and dog. Sit on the deck and watch the whales and dolphins or rest your eyes on the mountains. Close to the whale, dolphin & seal watch boats, and boat launching facilities. Recently redecorated and comfortable beds. Fully fenced for child and pet safety. 5 minutes drive from town. Sorry no wifi.

Guest favourite
Home in Kaikōura
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 111 reviews

Beach Escape Direct Ocean View

Lovely and cozy beachfront villa with a direct path to the beach extending from the deck. Conveniently located with a 4 minutes drive to town and 10 minute walks to local eateries. This recently renovated waterfront haven is ideal for a couples getaway. The open-plan kitchen, living area and deck provide the perfect space to unwind and soak in the spectacular coastal views. The bedroom features a generous queen size bed.

Guest favourite
A rainbow arcs over the ocean and mountains, visible from a grassy area. A tall tree provides shade, while two individuals stand and gaze at the view, enhancing the serene coastal environment.
Home in Kaikōura
4.84 out of 5 average rating, 266 reviews

We are on the waterfront, Esplanade

Priceless ocean and mountain views. Our house is situated opposite the Pacific Ocean. We would like to share our own Kaikoura holiday home with you. Our holiday home is just an ordinary, basic house but we have extraordinary views! Just 15 minutes walk to town or 2 minutes drive. Some activities you will enjoy are: whale watching, swimming with dolphins and seals, kayaking, and walks in the Kaikoura native bush.

Popular amenities for South Bay vacation rentals

When is the best time to visit South Bay?

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Avg. price$235 CAD$227 CAD$209 CAD$213 CAD$187 CAD$190 CAD$173 CAD$172 CAD$202 CAD$207 CAD$209 CAD$230 CAD
Avg. temp17 °C17 °C15 °C13 °C11 °C9 °C8 °C9 °C10 °C12 °C13 °C15 °C

Quick stats about vacation rentals in South Bay

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 120 vacation rentals in South Bay

  • Nightly prices starting at

    South Bay vacation rentals start at $56 CAD per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 9,210 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly vacation rentals

    80 properties offer extra space and kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 20 rentals that welcome pets

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    10 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wifi availability

    110 of South Bay vacation rentals include wifi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Kitchen, Wifi, and Pool across South Bay rentals

  • 4.8 Average rating

    South Bay stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.8 out of 5!

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