Top reasons to visit Whangarei
- Stunning Beaches: Whangarei boasts beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and water activities.
- Outdoor Adventures: Explore scenic hiking trails and breathtaking coastal views in the surrounding nature.
- Cultural Experiences: Discover local galleries, museums, and marinas that showcase Whangarei's rich heritage.
- Vibrant Downtown: Enjoy shopping and dining options in the lively downtown area filled with friendly locals.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from family-friendly motels to cozy guesthouses for a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in Whangarei
Whangarei offers a diverse selection of accommodations to cater to every traveler's needs, from family-friendly motels to cozy guesthouses. Whether you're on an adventure, a business trip, or simply seeking a relaxing vacation, you'll find the perfect hotel to enhance your stay. Explore various options that provide essential services and facilities to ensure a comfortable experience in this beautiful Northland destination.
- Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre: This 3-star hotel is tailored for business travelers seeking a productive stay in Whangarei. The hotel offers modern conference facilities, making it an ideal choice for corporate events and meetings. Guests will appreciate the spacious rooms equipped with essential amenities, a restaurant serving delicious meals, and a lounge area perfect for networking. The hotel’s relaxed atmosphere and proximity to local attractions ensure that you can balance work and leisure seamlessly.
- Discovery Settlers Hotel: With a 3.5-star rating and a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, Discovery Settlers Hotel combines comfort and convenience for both business and leisure travelers. This property features well-appointed rooms and a welcoming ambiance, making it a perfect retreat after a day of exploring. Guests can enjoy on-site dining options and various recreational activities nearby. The hotel’s commitment to quality service and amenities ensures a pleasant stay in the heart of Whangarei.
- Quest Whangarei: Rated 3.5 stars with an impressive guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Quest Whangarei offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience. This property provides a range of dining options, including continental breakfast, and features entertainment amenities such as flat-screen TVs. Located close to the city center and beautiful bay views, guests can easily explore the vibrant local culture. The spacious accommodations are perfect for both short and extended stays, ensuring a memorable experience in Whangarei.
Where to stay in Whangarei
Whangarei offers a vibrant blend of outdoor adventures, stunning beaches, and scenic views, perfect for any traveler. Explore the lively downtown area for great shopping and dining, or head to Whangarei Heads for breathtaking coastal scenery. Indulge in local delights along Riverside Drive, where friendly locals create a warm atmosphere. Whether you're looking for luxury or budget-friendly options, Whangarei promises a relaxing tropical getaway filled with unique experiences.
- One Tree Point: Nestled near the stunning Whangarei coastline, One Tree Point is a tranquil suburb known for its beautiful beaches and scenic views. This area attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons from December to February when the warm weather invites outdoor adventures. The suburb offers excellent trail access for hiking enthusiasts and features a shopping center for local delights. Families will enjoy the picturesque bays and family-friendly beaches that provide perfect spots for relaxation and fun under the sun.
- Onerahi: Located adjacent to Whangarei, Onerahi is a charming suburb that captivates travelers with its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Like One Tree Point, Onerahi sees its highest visitor numbers between December and February. The area is ideal for those seeking adventure, with numerous hiking trails and breathtaking views of the bay and nearby mountains. Onerahi’s beaches provide a serene escape, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
- Portland: A quaint suburb close to Whangarei, Portland is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of outdoor experiences and stunning landscapes. The best time to visit Portland is during the peak months of January, March, and July, when visitors flock to enjoy its beaches and scenic trails. The area is perfect for hiking and exploring, with family-friendly beaches and picturesque bays just a short distance away. Portland provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to unwind and immerse themselves in nature's beauty.
Things to do in Whangarei
Whangarei is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can explore vibrant shopping centers and malls, enjoy scenic hiking trails, and immerse themselves in the beautiful natural surroundings. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Whangarei has something for everyone to enjoy.
Shopping
In Whangarei, visit the Whangarei Town Basin for local crafts and unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out the Kamo Village Shopping Centre, about 5 miles away, featuring charming shops and cafes perfect for gift hunting.
Recreation
Whangarei Heads offers stunning coastal views and tranquil beaches, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. For a unique wellness experience, visit the Whangarei Wellness Center, where you can enjoy yoga sessions, holistic therapies, and nourishing organic meals in a peaceful setting surrounded by nature.
Adventure
In Whangarei, explore the breathtaking Whangarei Heads with kayaking and snorkeling adventures at scenic spots like Otamure Bay. For thrill-seekers, dive at the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, renowned for its rich marine life and underwater caves, making it a must-visit for divers.
Nightlife
Experience Whangarei's vibrant nightlife at The Butter Factory on Walton Street, where you can enjoy live music and gourmet pizzas. For a laid-back atmosphere, visit the Whangarei RSA on Hatea Drive for affordable drinks and friendly locals, perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Whangarei
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Whangarei are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Whangarei is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Whangarei is Monday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your travel options by selecting your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, if you check the Eco-certified filter, you'll find a selection of sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Whangarei hotel reservation with your flights and activities when you book an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Whangarei
Whangarei is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore local galleries, marinas, and museums that provide a rich cultural experience. Whether you're looking for adventure in nature or a relaxing day by the beach, Whangarei has something for everyone to enjoy during their vacation.
- Town Basin Marina: Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Town Basin Marina, where you can enjoy adventure and outdoor activities. This picturesque marina offers stunning views, waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and the chance to embark on various water sports, all while soaking in the beach vibes.
- Whangarei Falls: Located 3 miles from Whangarei, Whangarei Falls is a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic outings, you can explore walking trails, enjoy a picnic, and marvel at the cascading water, making it a serene escape.
- Whangarei Quarry Gardens: Discover the tropical paradise of Whangarei Quarry Gardens, a private garden filled with exotic plants and vibrant flowers. This peaceful oasis provides a unique setting for leisurely strolls, photography, and appreciating the beauty of nature.
Best time to go to Whangarei
The best time to visit Whangarei can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Whangarei falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Whangarei falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Whangarei
To reach Whangarei, you can fly into three major airports. Auckland Airport (AKL) is 92 miles away, with nearby hotels such as Cordis, Auckland (10 miles) offering transfers, and Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour (11 miles) providing various shuttle services. Kerikeri Airport (KKE) is 39 miles away, with options like Moon Gate Villa (2 miles) and Puketotara Lodge (2 miles), both easily accessible. Finally, Whangarei Airport (WRE) is just 4 miles away, featuring hotels like Lodge Bordeaux and Bella Vista Motel, both 4 miles from the airport, and Comfort Hotel Flames, only 0.9 miles away, offering free shuttle services on request.