
Waterfront vacation 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.

Danseys Pass Lavender Farm Retreat (shepherds hut)
Enjoy a unique stay at our little Lavender Farm nestled in the Kakanui Ranges. Sitting adjacent to the main house, you'll find comfort in your self-contained shepherd's hut, complete with a private outdoor bath and shower. Take the mountain e-bikes for a tour around the surrounding countryside, jump into one of the waterholes on the property. At the end of the day, unwind in your private 4-person spa opposite the rustic wood-fired sauna, or simply relax by the outdoor fireplace under the stars.

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.

Paradise in the Marlborough Sounds
The perfect spot for your next getaway. Located 10 minutes from Havelock and 45 minutes from Blenheim, on arrival you’ll find yourself surrounded by native bush and abundant bird life. Our Kayaks for your use, & our shoreline deck are a 2 minute walk down to the beach. A great spot to relax in the sun. Outdoor BBQ area and spa pool sets the scene for your relaxing break away. All sliding doors open up onto a large deck, perfect for soaking in the picturesque view. Our mooring may be available

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.

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.

Lake Hayes Escape - Queenstown - Arrowtown
Located right on the lake front of Lake Hayes this stylish alpine apartment is absolutely perfect for your stay. Incredibly warm with all day sun even in winter. Central location close to everything. Spectacular sunset views over the lake. Top cafes and restaurants nearby. Five min drive into Arrowtown and base of Coronet Peak in 10 min. Close to all ski fields. Avoid the traffic. Peaceful and quiet location. Friendly and helpful hosts who live upstairs. Simply perfect!!

Retreat To Pisa
Large Executive Private Suit, Ensuite Bathroom, Outdoor area, Garden. No cooking facilities inside Guest House. Microwave, toaster, electric jug, Nespresso mini,( bring your favourite pods) fridge provided for guests . Coffee , tea, herbal teas and fresh milk provided. Complimentary shampoo, and shower gel also provided. All linens and towels laundered with love and care ,with no nasty chemicals ,hung out in the natural sunlight environment to dry .

Lakehouse 4 – Parking, Fireplace, Lake Views
Lakehouse 4 – Lake Views, Parking & Fireplace Luxury split-level villa just three minutes from Queenstown’s centre, with sweeping Lake Wakatipu and Remarkables views from every level. Relax on the private balcony or sunny outdoor area with direct lake access. Features include a cosy fireplace, free parking and light-filled living — the perfect summer base for wine tours, lake adventures, biking trails, golf and Queenstown’s vibrant dining scene.

Riverside Bedford Bus with stunning valley views.
Take a break in this beautifully converted Bedford Bus with stunning views up the Lyell range and Matiri valley. Sits on the edge of the Kawatiri/Buller river right on the edge of town. Look down across the river from the comfort of your bed and go to sleep to the sounds of the water flowing just metres away. Relax beneath the stars in beanbags by the outside fire pit or prop up the bar. Plenty of entertainment for a chilled getaway.

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.

Sunset Surf and Stay Cabin
Kiwi Surf Cabins are located right at Kaikoura’s surf breaks on Kiwa Road, Mangamaunu. We offer beautiful beach accommodation for up to 2 guests in our stylish private cabins. Our surf and stay is epic for adventurous travellers who especially love nature, the ocean and surfing! You will enjoy stunning ocean and mountain views! Gorgeous sunrises and spectacular evening stargazing!

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 South Island waterfront rentals
Waterfront apartment rentals

Right on the Lake Front!

Bay Rise Lakeside Apartment

Luxury 2BR Apt. right by the Lake - Stunning Views

Beach Front Accommodation - Abel Tasman - Marahau

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

Luxurious accommodation at Tahunanui Beach

Balcony with Sea Views, Cosy & Perfectly Located

Waterfront 2-bedroom apartment with car park
Waterfront house rentals

Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront Haven

Banks Peninsula Cottage-Paradise near Christchurch

Glacier Lake House

Tawhitinui; Connect with Nature

Lakefront Tranquility Central Otago

Secluded waterfront new-build - 5min walk to beach

Lakeview

Pukaki Lakeside House - Fantastic Views
Other waterfront vacation rentals

Beach Front Oasis - Jacks Bay, Catlins

Lake Hayes: sunny 2-bedroom apartment

The Lookout

Clifftop Studio with Ocean Views

The Spruce Hus, Studio by the Lake.

View With A Room - Private Boutique Beach Suite

Tui Cottage-Waterfront cottage, Waikawa Bay/Picton

Character Harbour Retreat
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