Best Accommodation in Otago

Whether you’re visiting for wine, adventure or wildlife, Otago has a wide range of hotels and boutique stays that match the region’s character. From luxury lakeside resorts in Queenstown to historic charm in Dunedin and quirky escapes in Oamaru, here are some of the best places to rest your head after a day of exploring.

⭐ Queenstown

As the adventure capital of Aotearoa – New Zealand, Queenstown is packed with energy and beauty. Staying here means waking up to views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range, with world-class restaurants, nightlife and activities right at your doorstep.

• Kamana Lakehouse – A boutique retreat with panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu, chic interiors and a focus on wellness. Perfect for couples wanting a stylish stay away from the bustle of town.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – on-site hot tubs. Best for couples. Location tip – 5 minutes’ drive from Queenstown centre.
• Mi-Pad Smart Hotel – Modern, tech-savvy accommodation just a short walk from central Queenstown. With app-controlled rooms and a sleek design, it’s ideal for travellers who like convenience with flair.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – smart app control. Best for independent travellers. Location tip – close to restaurants and bars.

⭐ Wānaka

Known for its crystal-blue lake and laid-back alpine vibe, Wānaka is a favourite for those who want both adventure and relaxation. It’s a gateway to Mt Aspiring National Park and home to some of the South Island’s most photographed views.

• Edgewater Hotel – Sitting right on the shores of Lake Wānaka, this resort offers spacious rooms, tennis courts and a relaxed lakeside restaurant.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – lakeside location. Best for families or groups. Location tip – walkable to Wānaka town.
• Tin Tub Luxury Lodge – A boutique escape with outdoor hot tubs, sweeping lake views and warm hosts.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – private hot tubs. Best for couples. Location tip – elevated above town for views and quiet.

⭐ Lake Hāwea

Just a short drive from Wānaka, Lake Hāwea offers a quieter escape with equally stunning scenery. Surrounded by mountains and shimmering waters, it’s ideal for travellers seeking peace without losing access to adventure.

• Lake Hāwea Hotel – Perched right on the lakefront, this hotel has panoramic views of Lake Hāwea and the Southern Alps. With modern rooms, a lively bar and a restaurant showcasing local produce, it’s a cosy base for exploring.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – unbeatable lake views. Best for road trippers. Location tip – 15 minutes from Wānaka.

⭐ Cromwell

Cromwell is at the heart of Central Otago’s wine country, making it a dream base for food and wine lovers. With nearby cycle trails, vineyards and Lake Dunstan, it’s a destination that blends flavour with scenery.

• The Lake Resort Cromwell – A peaceful getaway set on Lake Dunstan, offering apartment-style villas with private moorings.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – lakeside villas. Best for wine lovers and cyclists. Location tip – near the Lake Dunstan Trail.
• Harvest Hotel – A centrally located stay in Cromwell with comfortable rooms and vineyard views, making it easy to explore nearby cellar doors.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – vineyard setting. Best for short stays. Location tip – close to Cromwell town centre.

⭐ Glenorchy

A tiny settlement at the head of Lake Wakatipu, Glenorchy feels like a hidden-world escape. Surrounded by mountains and gateway to the Routeburn Track, it’s perfect for hikers and travellers who love wilderness paired with charm.

• Eichardt’s Private Hotel – Glenorchy House – A luxury retreat combining heritage elegance with alpine charm, offering lakefront views and high-end comfort.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – boutique luxury. Best for romantic getaways. Location tip – lakeside location in Glenorchy.
• Kinloch Wilderness Retreat – A rustic lodge just outside Glenorchy, known for its eco-conscious ethos, hearty meals and lake-and-mountain views.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – eco-lodge vibes. Best for hikers. Location tip – near the Routeburn Track.

⭐ Dunedin

Dunedin is a city rich in heritage and culture, famous for its Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Staying here puts you close to lively cafés, art galleries and the wildlife of the Otago Peninsula.

• Distinction Dunedin Hotel – Set in a beautifully restored building, combining heritage character with modern luxury.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – heritage design. Best for city breaks. Location tip – central location for exploring Dunedin.
• Larnach Castle Lodge – Stay on the grounds of New Zealand’s only castle, with cosy rooms and harbour views.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – castle stay. Best for unique experiences. Location tip – on the Otago Peninsula.

⭐ Oamaru

Quirky and full of character, Oamaru is best known for its Victorian Precinct, Steampunk culture, and nightly penguin parade. Staying here is like stepping back in time — with a creative twist.

• Pen-y-bryn Lodge – A grand historic homestead turned boutique lodge. With Victorian charm, fine dining, and personalised service, it’s one of Oamaru’s most memorable stays.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – Victorian luxury. Best for history lovers. Location tip – close to Oamaru’s Victorian Precinct.
• Poshtel Oamaru – A quirky boutique hotel with themed rooms (think steampunk, art, and adventure) reflecting Oamaru’s creative spirit.
  • Good to Know: Signature feature – themed rooms. Best for quirky stays. Location tip – easy walk to Steampunk HQ.

👉 Plan Your Stay in Otago

From lakeside retreats to boutique heritage hotels, Otago has something for every traveller. Whether you’re here for wine, wildlife or adventure, you’ll find the perfect base to match your journey.

✨ Find the Best Places to Stay in Otago

🌟 Final Thoughts

From luxury escapes on Lake Wakatipu to quirky stays in Oamaru, Otago’s hotels and lodges offer something for every traveller. Whether you want alpine charm, historic character or lakeside tranquillity, the region’s accommodation is as diverse as its landscapes. Pair your stay with a local wine tour or scenic road trip and Otago becomes an experience you’ll never forget.

🌍 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.