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Find hotels in Curio Bay from $120

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Our top choices for Curio Bay hotels

Waikawa House

Waikawa House
3.5 star property
Waikawa
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (35)
"This property was much more than we expected. So lovely to have this much space."
Australia
Martin
$103 nightly
The price is $120
Jan 12 - Jan 13, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Waikawa House
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Stay near popular Curio Bay attractions

Learn more about Curio Bay

Watch for rare yellow-eyed penguins waddling ashore at low tide on this remote petrified forest coastline. Scan the waters from the clifftop viewing platform where dolphins and Hector's porpoises frequently play in the surf.

Curio Bay is on the other side of Porpoise Bay in the Catlins. It's home to seals and yellow eyed penguins and one of the oldest petrified forests in the world. it is just incredible.
Photo by YoungAdventuress
Open Photo by YoungAdventuress

Top Curio Bay Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in Curio Bay

Crayfish Creek Farmstay - Rustic meets Coastal Charm & Stunning panoramic views.

Crayfish Creek Farmstay - Rustic meets Coastal Charm & Stunning panoramic views.

Tokanui Southland Region
The price is $301 total per night from Jan 26 to Jan 27
$301 total
per night
Jan 26 - Jan 27

Find out more about Curio Bay

Top reasons to visit Curio Bay

  • Stunning Beaches: Curio Bay boasts pristine beaches perfect for relaxation and adventure, featuring breathtaking coastal scenery.
  • Outdoor Activities: Engage in thrilling water activities like swimming, kayaking, and dolphin watching amid beautiful landscapes.
  • Cultural Experiences: Join local Māori guides for enriching tours that share cultural insights and stories of the region.
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic Catlins Coast with picturesque hiking trails leading to waterfalls and stunning views.
  • Cozy Accommodations: Enjoy a variety of lodging options, from charming guesthouses to family-friendly hotels.

Find great hotels in and around Curio Bay

Curio Bay offers a variety of lodging options perfect for any traveler, from cozy guesthouses to comfortable hotels. Whether you're looking for pet-friendly accommodations or a family-friendly beach getaway, you'll find several choices tailored to your needs. Explore the unique charm of Curio Bay, including the renowned Curio Bay Salthouse and Salthouse Apartments, all while enjoying captivating reviews from fellow visitors.

  • Curio Bay Salt House Motel: Nestled in the heart of Curio Bay, this charming 3-star guesthouse offers a perfect beach getaway for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. With direct access to the stunning beach, guests can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or simply watching the waves. The motel features comfortable accommodations tailored for relaxation, making it an ideal choice for beach enthusiasts looking to unwind and soak in the picturesque coastal views.
  • Waikawa House: Located just 3 miles from Curio Bay, the 3.5-star Waikawa House is an inviting retreat for families and pet lovers alike. This guesthouse is designed with family-friendly amenities, including games and dinnerware for children, ensuring a fun and stress-free stay. The property welcomes pets, making it a great choice for those traveling with furry companions. With a warm atmosphere and thoughtful services, Waikawa House offers an ideal environment for family bonding and relaxation.
  • Curio Bay Boutique Accommodation: This stylish hotel in Curio Bay combines modern comfort with a touch of elegance. Guests can enjoy access to WiFi in their rooms, making it easy to stay connected during their vacation. The property also offers self-parking for a fee, adding convenience for those traveling by car. With its boutique charm and commitment to guest satisfaction, Curio Bay Boutique Accommodation provides a delightful base for exploring the natural wonders of the area.

Where to stay near Curio Bay

Curio Bay is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a relaxing beach getaway on its pristine shores, where the natural beauty unfolds at every turn. Explore the unique wildlife and stunning coastal landscapes, or indulge in romantic walks along the beachfront. Nearby attractions in the captivating Catlins region offer more hidden gems, making Curio Bay the perfect destination for a rejuvenating vacation surrounded by nature.

  • Waikawa: Located a short 3 miles from Curio Bay, Waikawa is a charming suburb known for its stunning outdoor experiences and picturesque scenery. This area attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel occurring from December to February. The local attractions include beautiful beaches and tranquil lakes, making it a perfect spot for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you're strolling along the serene shorelines or enjoying a relaxing day by the lake, Waikawa offers a refreshing escape into nature.
  • Slope Point: Just 4 miles from Curio Bay, Slope Point is a delightful suburb famed for its breathtaking landscapes and romantic ambiance. This area sees a moderate influx of tourists, especially during January to February and November. Visitors are drawn to its scenic views and the iconic historic lighthouse, which adds a touch of charm to the coastal landscape. The nearby lake provides additional opportunities for outdoor activities, making Slope Point an excellent destination for couples and adventure seekers alike.
  • Progress Valley: Situated 6 miles away from Curio Bay, Progress Valley is a quaint suburb that combines outdoor adventure with stunning scenery. With similar seasonal trends to Slope Point, visitors flock here primarily in January, February, and November. Progress Valley is home to beautiful lakes and beaches, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation or exploration. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or an outdoor excursion, Progress Valley is sure to leave you captivated by its natural beauty.

Things to do in Curio Bay

Curio Bay offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery perfect for a beach vacation. Enjoy exciting water activities like swimming and kayaking, while also taking the opportunity to go dolphin watching. Don't miss a visit to the famous Curio Bay itself, and consider joining a tour with local Māori guides to enrich your experience with cultural insights and stories of the area.

Shopping

In Curio Bay, local shops offer unique souvenirs like hand-crafted items and regional art. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby town of Owaka to explore the Owaka Museum and local markets featuring fresh produce and artisan goods.

Recreation

At Curio Bay, unwind at the local wellness retreat with rejuvenating massages and yoga sessions overlooking the ocean. Explore the stunning coastline while walking along the beach, and for a unique experience, visit the nearby petrified forest, which offers a glimpse into ancient history amidst beautiful scenery.

Adventure

In Curio Bay, explore the stunning coastline and witness the unique geological formations while surfing or kayaking. Visit the Curio Bay fossilized forest, where you can walk among ancient tree stumps. Enjoy breathtaking views while hiking the scenic trails along the cliffs, perfect for spotting wildlife and seabirds.

Nightlife

Curio Bay offers a tranquil nightlife experience, perfect for stargazing along the beach. The local tavern provides a cozy atmosphere with live music and tasty local brews, while nearby, the scenic coastline sets the stage for peaceful evening strolls under the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Curio Bay

To save money on your trip to Curio Bay, consider visiting in May or August to September when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or take advantage of last-minute deals on Expedia. Fridays are the cheapest days to stay, while Wednesdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by price and explore package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for extra savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and the chance to earn cash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Curio Bay are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Curio Bay about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Curio Bay is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Curio Bay is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the best prices and deals available, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Curio Bay hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions in and around Curio Bay

Curio Bay is a stunning destination perfect for outdoor and beach vacations, offering beautiful scenery and adventure experiences. Visitors can explore the picturesque Curio Bay Beach, hike along the breathtaking Catlins Coast, and enjoy the nearby waterfalls. This charming area is ideal for those seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure in nature, making it a must-visit spot for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

  • Curio Bay Petrified Forest: Explore the fascinating Curio Bay Petrified Forest, where ancient trees have turned to stone. This unique landscape offers stunning coastal scenery and a rich history, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
  • Porpoise Bay Beach: Just 2 miles from Curio Bay, Porpoise Bay Beach is a serene spot known for its golden sands and beautiful waters. Ideal for relaxation and beachcombing, it's a great place to unwind and soak up the sun.
  • McLean Falls: Located 13 miles from Curio Bay, McLean Falls is an enchanting waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The hike to the falls offers a sense of adventure and romance, making it perfect for couples and outdoor enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Curio Bay

The best time to visit Curio Bay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Curio Bay falls in January, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Curio Bay falls in July, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
February57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
March55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
June44.8°F (7.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
July44.1°F (6.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
August45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
September46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
October49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
November52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
December55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Curio Bay

When planning a trip to Curio Bay, you have a couple of major airports to consider. Invercargill Airport (IVC) is located 41 miles away, and excellent hotel options nearby include the 4.5-star Homestead Villa Motel, Balmoral Lodge Motel, and Shelby Motor Lodge, all just 2 miles from the airport. For those looking at Stewart Island (SZS-Ryans Creek), which is 50 miles from Curio Bay, the 3-star Bay Motel is 1 mile away, while Anchorstone Guesthouse and South Sea Hotel are also nearby. These hotels offer various transportation services, including scheduled airport shuttles and transfers, ensuring a smooth journey to and from the airports.

Frequently asked questions

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline – this is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right Curio Bay hotel for you.
How can I save on a Curio Bay hotel booking with Expedia?
One Key™ - Expedia's free travel rewards program - gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on Curio Bay hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.

*OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.
How much is the nightly rate at a Curio Bay hotel?
Prices for hotels in Curio Bay often vary, but you can find a great deal from $120 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.