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.

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Top guest favorite
A panoramic view of the Kakanui Ranges showcases rolling hills bathed in soft morning light. Lush trees border the property, while a winding path leads through the landscape, enhancing the natural beauty of the area.
Hut in Danseys Pass
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviews

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.

Guest favorite
A charming two-story cottage is framed by lush vegetation, with large windows allowing natural light to fill the interior. The Southern Alps rise majestically in the background, capped with snow, creating a striking contrast against the warm tones of the cottage.
Cottage in Ōkārito
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 306 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
A modern single-story home is nestled among lush native bush, surrounded by vibrant greenery and mature trees. A spacious deck extends from the house, offering outdoor seating to enjoy the serene natural setting. The well-maintained garden features a variety of shrubs and plants.
Home in Havelock
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 119 reviews

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

Guest favorite
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, 865 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 favorite
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, 306 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.

Top guest favorite
An outdoor patio area features comfortable seating with soft cushions, positioned to overlook the serene lake. Tables hold a bottle and glasses, inviting relaxation. Natural surrounding vegetation creates a peaceful atmosphere, while the golden light of sunset enhances the view.
Guest suite in Queenstown
5 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

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!!

Top guest favorite
An outdoor area features a covered patio with two chairs and footrests. Large planters with shrubs are positioned next to decorative barrels. The well-maintained lawn extends towards a backdrop of greenery and rolling hills beneath a clear sky.
Guest suite in Mount Pisa
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 293 reviews

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 .

Guest favorite
A spacious living area features large floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountains. Comfortable seating is arranged around a central coffee table, with decorative cushions and a soft throw blanket enhancing the inviting atmosphere.
Villa in Queenstown
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 155 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
A view from the outdoor area features a grassy landscape bordered by a rustic wooden fence, overlooking the river and hills in the distance. A picnic table is positioned in the foreground, with a fire pit nearby, set against a backdrop of cloudy blue skies.
Bus in Murchison
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 193 reviews

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.

Top guest favorite
Cabin in Franz Josef / Waiau
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 293 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 favorite
The exterior of the Sunset Cabin features natural timber cladding and large glass doors that invite in light. Fragile grasses and low-maintenance plants are arranged along a sleek wooden fence marked 'SUNSET.' A ladder leans against the cabin, adding to the rustic charm.
Guesthouse in Hapuku
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 361 reviews

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!

Top guest favorite
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
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 187 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 South Island waterfront rentals

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