
Waterfront vacation rentals in South Island
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Top-rated waterfront rentals in South Island
Guests agree: these waterfront rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

The Oceanview Suite
Discover the enchanting Mangamaunu Retreat, where breathtaking ocean and mountain views await you year-round. Nestled in a peaceful and secluded setting, our property offers some of the most spectacular vistas in Kaikōura. Wander through our five acres of gardens, featuring fruit orchards and sculpted native bush. Located on the Mangamaunu coastline, we’re just a two-minute stroll from the world-famous surf beach. Unwind and rejuvenate in one of New Zealand’s most stunning and unique locations.

Beautiful cottage with mountain and sea views
Watch the sunset over the Tasman Sea from the deck of this beautiful character cottage, or walk out the door directly across to the beach, with stunning views back to the Southern Alps. Enjoy the peace and beauty of the Ōkārito Lagoon, surrounding National Park, native forest walks and bird life, including tui, kōtuku (white heron) and kiwi. Listen to the sound of the sea & the call of ruru NZ's native morepork owl. High quality linen, towels, Free Wi-Fi, fridge/freezer, tea and coffee included.

Bach with private waterfront access + 2 Kayak use
Modern architectural kiwi bach nestled on the edge of a tidal lagoon between Ligar Bay and Tata Beach. The Bach is a compact 55sqm with a large sheltered and covered deck with all day sun. A master bedroom links on to a compact lounge & ensuite bathroom, dining & kitchen area from either side all with full views of the water & lagoon. There is a seperate sleeping pod with a Queen size bed 2 metres from main dwelling for an extra 2 guests. Amazing second Hot outdoor shower under the trees.

Stargazer’s Luxury Retreat - Lake Tekapo
For those who fancy a luxury escape; Stargaze the Milky Way from your own luxury outdoor bath, then come inside to a toasty warm fire. Enjoy the comfort of a king size bed with luxury linen, looking directly through to the lake and mountains beyond. In the bathroom, relax in our freestanding bath or enjoy a rain shower for two. Take in unobstructed views of the lake and mountains from your lounge room by day, and cosy up on the couch or wool beanbag for a movie at night. This is paradise.

Pure Lakefront, Corner Peak Cottage
Uninterrupted lake views await your next very special getaway. This retreat is a perfect blend of luxe and retro in an architecturally designed 1960's Cottage nestled in outstanding natural beauty. There is nothing between you and the spectacular lake view apart from some deep breaths, a wine and some down time. This is the best view in Lake Hawea! The Cottage sits at the front of the property with a fenced off and completely separate Corner Peak Studio at the back of the property.

Church Bay Hideaway - Beach Access & Sea Views
Escape to our cosy seaside retreat, just 30 minutes from Christchurch. Wake to breathtaking ocean views, wander down to the secluded beach and jetty, and soak up all-day sun from this north-facing haven. Perfect for couples or families, this peaceful escape is surrounded by native NZ trees and birdsong. Enjoy the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience, with local amenities just a 2-minute drive away. Explore the coastline, relax on the deck, or simply do nothing at all.

Black's Hut - Lakefront Cottage
Black's Hut sits on the shores of Lake Te Anau with expansive uninterrupted views of Fiordland. Built in 2022 with quality fixtures and furnishings, entertainment system and hot tub. Excellent unlimited wifi. Black's Hut has been specifically set up to accommodate adults with two separate bedrooms and bathrooms. Extremely private with extensive plantings. Bike track and reserve between the cottage and lake. Just a 15 minute walk along the lakefront to shops and cafes.

Mountain View Abode - Spectacular Views In Twizel
Mountain View Abode is a spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with sweeping views of the Southern alps, on the edge of the picturesque high country town of Twizel. Set on 2 acres overlooking a private pond towards snow covered peaks, it’s also a stone's throw to the town square and shops, restaurants and cafes. Our home is situated in an exclusive position directly on the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, and is a perfect base for exploring Mount Cook National Park

Wairua Moana ~ Spirit of the Sea
Spirit of the Sea is a thoughtfully redesigned and newly renovated seaside cottage with exceptional coastal views from all rooms, a large sunny outdoor deck area, and modern fittings. A short walk to Kaka Point's two beaches and village centre. Spirit of the Sea is a private yet central coastal escape designed as a couples retreat, not ideal for small children as there are a number of hazards such as steep unfenced cliff and a busy road.

Luxury Wilderness Cabin on Private Lake
Luxury off-grid cabin nestled on the edge of a small lake fed by a pristine mountain stream a 3-minute drive from Franz Josef Glacier village. Sensational views of snow-capped mountains, the lake, glacier, Fritz Falls & rainforest. Super King bed, sunsets, outdoor stone bath, cedar barrel sauna with panoramic window & nature's swimming pool on your doorstep. Experience luxury amidst nature.

Drifting Sands - Beachfront Retreat Jacuzzi & Fire
Where the majestic Southern Alps meet the wild West Coast, Drifting Sands offers something truly extraordinary, a rare ocean-to-alps escape that captures the raw beauty of New Zealand's untamed coastline. With dramatic mountain peaks as your backdrop and endless beach stretching from your doorstep, this isn't just accommodation - it's your gateway to adventure. One night is never enough.

The Kakanui Cube
This fabulous little contemporary beach house is right across the road from the ocean. Stroll along the waterfront to Campbell's Bay surf break and the gorgeous sandy beach to All Day Bay. The Cube is the place to really relax and recharge enjoying the views and gorgeous sunrise and sunset. Chill out at home or get out for a surf or walk on the beach.
Popular amenities for South Island waterfront rentals
Waterfront apartment rentals

Coastal Calm | Luxe Stay with Views, Bath & Fire.

Lakeside Escape

Bay Rise Lakeside Apartment

Luxurious accommodation at Tahunanui Beach

Te Ora (Life) at the Beach- Luxury Beach Retreat

Te Onepoto lodge Sumner, 151a TM road

Nelson Beachfront Luxury Apartment

Kikorangi | Lake View, BBQ, A/C & Free Parking
Waterfront house rentals

Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront Haven

Ten Mile Coast Road Ocean Outlook

Lakefront Luxury

Ocean Tides Beach House

Straw bale house by the sea

Pukaki Lakeside House - Fantastic Views

Waituhi at Whitehorse Bay ~ wrapped in nature

Punakaiki Retreat
Other waterfront vacation rentals

Beach Front Oasis - Jacks Bay, Catlins

Sunset Surf and Stay Cabin

Lakeside Retreat Cromwell Near Queenstown Wānaka

Shag Point Retreat

Beach House

Stylish Seaview Villa perched above Akaroa

Regenerative cabin near the Routeburn

ParaPara River Retreat, tranquil, private, cosy
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