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Waterfront holiday rentals in South Island

Find and book unique waterfront rentals on Airbnb

Top-rated waterfront rentals in South Island

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

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Top guest favourite
A sunlit corner of the suite is captured, featuring large windows that frame scenic views of the garden and ocean beyond. A wooden table sits beside a comfortable leather chair, while fresh air enters through the open door leading to a tranquil outdoor space.
Guest suite in Hapuku
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 115 reviews

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.

Guest favourite
A vibrant sunset casts warm orange and yellow hues over the ocean, reflecting off the calm waters. The horizon is marked by a silhouette of distant land, while a light breeze rustles the nearby foliage framing the view.
Home in Bluff
4.76 out of 5 average rating, 126 reviews

Reef Murmur - Stargazing Sunrise Hideaway

Perched on a hillside just steps from the ocean at New Zealand’s southernmost tip (46°S), Reef Murmur offers uninterrupted sea views across the horizon. This is a simple, older-style coastal home, focused on nature rather than modern luxury, with a compact kitchen best suited for light cooking. Fall asleep to waves on the reefs, greet the world’s first sunrise, and enjoy star-filled skies. Surrounded by trees and set well apart from neighbors, the retreat is quiet, private, and deeply peaceful.

Superhost
An outdoor deck features a luxury hot tub overlooking a lake and mountains. Large glass doors provide seamless access between indoor and outdoor spaces. A wooden chair is positioned beside the tub, inviting relaxation in this serene setting.
Cottage in Lake Tekapo
4.82 out of 5 average rating, 923 reviews

Stargazer’s Luxury Retreat

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.

Top guest favourite
Aerial view encapsulates the serene landscape, featuring vibrant greenery surrounding a charming cottage. The lake stretches out in the foreground, reflecting the sky, while distant mountains create a majestic backdrop. The expansive outdoor space invites relaxation and connection with nature.
Home in Lake Hāwea
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 184 reviews

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.

Guest favourite
A sunlit open-plan living area features large glass doors that open to expansive water views. A wooden coffee table rests on a soft area rug, and comfortable armchairs invite relaxation, all while natural light fills the space, highlighting the serene waterfront landscape.
Home in Charteris Bay
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 232 reviews

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.

Top guest favourite
A modern cottage stands against the backdrop of Lake Te Anau and mountainous terrain. The exterior showcases a sleek design with varying materials, surrounded by manicured landscaping and a gravel pathway leading to the entrance. The tranquil setting emphasizes the hut's private location.
Cottage in Te Anau
5 out of 5 average rating, 351 reviews

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.

Guest favourite
A cozy living area features a comfortable leather sofa and an armchair beside a wood burner, creating an inviting ambiance. A wooden coffee table is placed centrally on a soft rug, with books and a woven placemat arranged upon it.
Home in Twizel
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 362 reviews

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

Guest favourite
A wooden staircase leads from the tiny house to lush green grass, with lights strung above. The view captures a serene bay, where sand meets water, framed by rolling hills under a cloudy sky.
Tiny home in Hinahina
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 199 reviews

Beach Front Oasis - Jacks Bay, Catlins

Take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway. Wake up to the sound of the waves crashing on the shoreline and bird song from native species and just feel all your life's worries melt away! Beach front location in one of the hidden gems of the Catlins. This self contained tiny house is the perfect place to unplug from technology and unwind (wifi available but no television) A great base for exploring all the Catlins has to offer.

Top guest favourite
Cabin in Franz Josef / Waiau
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 354 reviews

Luxury Wilderness Cabin on Private Lake

Luxury off-grid cabin in absolute wilderness 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.

Top guest favourite
Home in Ruatapu
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 169 reviews

Big Heart Beach - Private Ocean to Alps Retreat

Welcome to Big Heart Beach - Your Peaceful Coastal Retreat. Nestled between the wild ocean and the majestic Southern Alps, Big Heart Beach offers the perfect retreat to relax, rejuvenate, and create cherished memories. Located just five minutes south of Hokitika, this haven of tranquility blends breathtaking natural beauty with the peace and quiet you’ve been seeking.

Guest favourite
The exterior of a contemporary beach house is highlighted, showcasing natural wood siding and large windows. A low concrete wall separates the house from the landscaped area, featuring grasses and small stones. A clear blue sky with scattered clouds creates a serene backdrop.
Home in Kakanui
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 309 reviews

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.

Top guest favourite
A hot tub is positioned on a wooden deck, overlooking calm ocean waters and a distant rocky island. The soft hues of the sky blend with the water, creating a serene and tranquil scene, perfect for relaxation.
Home in Motunau
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 227 reviews

Ocean View Bach

Escape to a modern and cozy holiday rental in Motunau, New Zealand. This charming two-bedroom retreat offers breathtaking ocean views, a well-equipped kitchen, and a luxurious master bedroom. Explore the picturesque village and relax on the safest beach in Canterbury. Whether you seek nature or romance, this rental has it all for an unforgettable stay.

Popular amenities for waterfront rentals in South Island

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