Best Places to Stay in Dunedin

Dunedin is a city that welcomes every kind of traveller — whether you’re exploring in a campervan, pitching a tent or checking into a comfortable hotel. With dramatic coastlines, a lively city centre and plenty of things to do, finding the right place to stay makes all the difference. To help you plan, here are some of the best places to stay in Dunedin from friendly campgrounds to top hotels and even a freedom camping spot for budget-conscious travellers.

⛺ Dunedin Holiday Park & Motels

Located close to St Kilda Beach and just a short drive from the city, the Dunedin Holiday Park is one of the most popular stays for campervanners and families. It’s spacious, welcoming and well set up for longer visits. Travellers love the combination of being near the beach while still having easy access to Dunedin’s shops, attractions and dining.

• Large range of powered and non-powered sites, plus cabins and motel units.
• Clean, well-maintained facilities including kitchens, bathrooms and laundry.
• Walking distance to the beach for morning swims or evening strolls.
• Friendly atmosphere and plenty of space for families.

⛺ Leith Valley Touring Park

Nestled in a leafy valley beside a stream, Leith Valley Touring Park offers a peaceful retreat just five minutes from the city centre. It’s ideal for those who want to stay close to Dunedin while still enjoying a natural setting. The bush surrounds and birdsong make it feel like you’re tucked away in the countryside.

• Options include tent sites, campervan sites, cabins and self-contained units.
• Surrounded by native bush, with short walks right from camp.
• Quiet and tranquil, yet only minutes from central Dunedin.
• Great spot for travellers who prefer a calm, nature-filled stay.

🚐 Freedom Camping – Ocean View Recreation Reserve

For budget-conscious travellers, the Ocean View Recreation Reserve is a freedom camping gem just south of Dunedin. With its wide-open spaces and direct access to the beach, it’s a simple but rewarding place to park up. The sunsets here are often spectacular and the sound of waves makes for a peaceful night’s sleep.

• Free for certified self-contained vehicles.
• Beachfront location with plenty of room to spread out.
• Public toilets and basic facilities available.
• A relaxed, no-frills spot that feels close to nature.

👉 Make sure to check the Dunedin City Council Freedom Camping page for the latest rules and requirements before you stay.

🏨 Scenic Hotel Southern Cross

The Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is one of Dunedin’s most iconic stays. Housed in a grand 19th-century building, it blends heritage character with modern comforts. Its central location makes it easy to walk to the Octagon, museums and top restaurants, while the interior offers a mix of elegance and warmth. Guests love the spacious rooms, attentive service and the feeling of staying somewhere that’s part of the city’s history.

• Choose from well-appointed rooms and suites with contemporary styling.
• On-site dining options, including a restaurant and bar, make it easy to unwind.
• Fitness facilities and secure parking available.
• Step outside and you’re in the heart of Dunedin’s attractions.

🏨 The Chamberson Hotel

For travellers seeking something stylish and unique, The Chamberson Hotel delivers boutique charm inside a beautifully restored warehouse. The building has been carefully converted into a sleek and modern space, while still keeping touches of its industrial past. Its location just steps from the Octagon means you can explore the city centre on foot, returning to a room that feels calm, private and thoughtfully designed.

• Contemporary rooms with clean lines, large windows and luxury bedding.
• Smart amenities including kitchenettes in some suites for added convenience.
• Perfect for couples or independent travellers who enjoy design-focused stays.
• Walking distance to cafés, galleries, and nightlife, yet tucked away for quiet.

Final Thoughts

From beachside campgrounds to heritage hotels, Dunedin offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re parking up your campervan at a peaceful reserve or checking into a boutique hotel, each stay puts you close to the city’s unique mix of history, wildlife and culture. If you’d like more inspiration, take a look at our full Dunedin blog, where we share even more tips and ideas to make the most of your time in the city.

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.

• ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
• 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
• 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
• 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
• 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
• 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
• 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
• 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
• 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
• 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
• 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.

🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.