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Everything you need to know about Island Bay
Island Bay Lodge stands out as the top choice, offering private beach access and panoramic views of the rugged coastline. Just a 3-minute walk from the bay’s heart, this boutique retreat features wooden-style rooms with private balconies overlooking the ocean, ideal for sunrise watching and evening stargazing.
The property emphasizes sustainability with locally sourced materials and an on-site breakfast featuring fresh seafood and organic produce. Guests can book guided coastal ecology tours through the HopeGoo platform to explore sea caves, spot native seals, and learn about marine conservation efforts.
Located just 20 minutes by bus from downtown Wellington, the lodge also offers electric bike rentals for scenic coastal rides. Each room includes premium bedding and individual heating—perfect even during winter months. For travelers seeking tranquility and authenticity, Island Bay Lodge delivers an immersive experience rooted in nature and local culture.
A short 5-minute stroll from Island Bay Lodge leads to the historic North Head Lighthouse, offering sweeping views of Wellington Harbour—especially stunning at sunset. The coastal path winds past secluded coves where you might spot wild seals basking on rocks.
Just 10 minutes further, Kawarau Beach beckons with soft sand and calm waters, perfect for sunbathing or beginner surfing. For nature lovers, guided tidal pool explorations are available through the lodge, revealing hidden creatures like starfish and hermit crabs along the southern shoreline.
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the misty mornings when the sea mirrors the cliffs and lighthouse—a dreamlike scene captured only at dawn. All experiences can be booked via the HopeGoo app for curated, eco-conscious adventures that connect you deeply with the region’s natural beauty.
Yes, Island Bay Lodge offers several ocean-view rooms, including the premium Oceanfront Balcony Room with floor-to-ceiling windows and a private deck facing the harbour. These rooms provide uninterrupted views of the shimmering water and distant hills, especially breathtaking at sunrise.
Some suites feature an outdoor hot tub, allowing guests to soak under the stars while watching the lighthouse beam sweep across the bay. All rooms use natural timber finishes and soundproofed glass for comfort and privacy, even during windy conditions.
Guests often praise the morning ambiance—between 6:30 and 8:00 AM—when golden light spills over the waves and seabirds call above the cliffs. To secure the best view, it’s recommended to book early through the HopeGoo platform, which ensures availability and optimal room positioning.
Take City Bus Lines 101 or 102, which run every 15–20 minutes and take about 20 minutes from central Wellington. The stop is just a 5-minute walk to Island Bay Lodge, with no transfers needed.
For a more flexible option, rent an electric bicycle from downtown stations—many offer discounts via the HopeGoo app. Ride along the Wellington Coastal Highway, passing West Side Park and the trailhead to Catherine Hill, with scenic stops at viewpoints overlooking the bay.
Alternatively, book a private shuttle service through the hotel for a direct 15-minute ride, tailored to your schedule. All options are recommended to be reserved in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid delays and ensure a smooth journey.
See what other travelers say about Island Bay
Staying at Ascot Motor Lodge was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The moment we arrived, we were relieved to find ample parking—perfect for our 5-meter-long ute, which fit comfortably on the property without any hassle. The lodge itself was spotless, well-maintained, and warmly welcoming thanks to the incredibly friendly owners who went out of their way to make us feel at home. Our room was quiet, cozy, and inviting—ideal for a restful night’s sleep. Location-wise, it’s a breeze to get into Wellington city or explore nearby attractions, whether by car or public transport. Everything we needed was right there, and the attention to detail made all the difference. A truly great stay with excellent value—definitely coming back.
I absolutely loved my stay at Ohtel Wellington! The team went above and beyond—so warm, welcoming, and helpful. My flight got cancelled due to bad weather, but instead of stress, I was quickly rebooked with zero hassle. Now I'm enjoying a gorgeous room with stunning sea views, and it’s such a peaceful escape. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and easy access to everything. It's rare to find such a thoughtful, friendly hotel with such a great vibe. I’ll definitely be back.
Staying at Richmond Guest House was an absolute delight. The accommodation is incredibly cozy and spotlessly clean—every detail feels thoughtfully taken care of. The host was warm and welcoming, offering helpful tips on local transport and great dining spots nearby. I felt like a guest in a friend’s home rather than just another traveler. Located just minutes from the city center via public transit, it's super convenient for exploring Wellington. With such a friendly vibe, top-notch cleanliness, and unbeatable value, this place easily earns my highest recommendation. I’ll definitely be back!
Staying at Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers in Wellington was a fantastic experience. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and even helped me check in ahead of time, which made my arrival so much smoother. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with excellent privacy—perfect for a good night's sleep without any disturbances. Location-wise, it can't get much better: right across from the train station and just a short walk from the Bluebridge ferry terminal. Getting around town is super easy, whether you're heading downtown or exploring nearby attractions. I especially appreciated how quiet and clean the space felt, all while being in such a central spot. For budget-conscious travelers who value comfort and convenience, this place is a real gem. Would definitely come back.
Absolutely perfect stay! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to downtown Wellington, with everything you need within easy reach. The apartment is spacious, well-equipped, and even comes with a washer and dryer—huge plus for longer trips. At such a reasonable price, this is hands-down the best choice for visiting Wellington. The host was incredibly friendly and helpful, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. I’d definitely book again—highly recommend!
Staying at Copthorne Hotel Wellington, Oriental Bay was a highlight of my trip to Wellington. The room layout is smart and spacious, with a clean, well-maintained feel from top to bottom—every corner looked fresh and cared for. The view from the window? Absolutely stunning. Waking up to the ocean breeze and sunlight reflecting off the water was pure magic. Breakfast was excellent—plenty of variety, fresh ingredients, and hot options that hit the spot. The only minor note: the front desk staff were polite but slightly reserved, which I guess comes with being in a capital city vibe. Not cold, just more formal—nothing personal! Parking is pricey both across the street and at the hotel, but honestly, it’s expected in a central CBD area like Wellington. It’s not unique to this hotel—it’s just how things work in major urban centers. Still, I’d gladly pay extra for such a prime location and quality stay. Overall, an outstanding experience with great value for money. Would book again without hesitation.
Staying at WQ Wellington Quarter Hotel was a fantastic experience. The location is unbeatable—just a short 8-minute walk from the bus interchange, making it super convenient to catch the airport express bus. I appreciated how close it was to downtown Wellington, and having a New World supermarket nearby made grocery shopping a breeze. The hotel itself was spotless, with a clean and welcoming atmosphere. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay. Everything about this place felt well thought out, from the comfort of the room to the thoughtful touches around the property. If you're visiting Wellington and want a hassle-free, centrally located base, this is an excellent choice. Highly recommended!
I stayed at Naumi Hotel Wellington and was genuinely impressed from start to finish. The room was spacious, immaculately clean, and the bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep. Located right on Cuba Street, it’s an ideal spot for exploring local dining and nightlife. I could walk to so many great restaurants, cafes, and shops in just a few minutes. The lobby has a modern, relaxed vibe with great attention to detail—very welcoming and stylish. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully designed, and the value for money is outstanding. I’d absolutely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Wellington.
Staying at Wellesley Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the city center, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions within easy reach. My room was spotless and meticulously clean, with a comfortable bed and excellent air conditioning that kept the room just right throughout the night. The bathroom was fresh and dry, with high-quality toiletries. Everything felt thoughtfully designed, from the lighting to the little touches in the room. It’s rare to find such a well-maintained boutique hotel with this level of comfort and convenience. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Wellington.
We never actually got to stay here, which is a real shame. We booked a night in June for early March, but received a call on May 22nd informing us that our reservation had been canceled because the motel had been sold—and the new owners planned to demolish it. After emailing to confirm the call was legitimate and expressing how disappointed we were at having to pay significantly more for last-minute accommodation, we were told that the staff had all lost their jobs too. The owners reportedly didn’t plan this sale—apparently strangers walked in off the street and made an offer the owners couldn’t refuse. Still, despite the disruption to guests and employees alike, they’ve refused to provide any compensation. It’s incredibly frustrating and shows zero regard for customers. Honestly, I’m glad we didn’t end up staying. This kind of sudden closure, with no support or transparency, should be a red flag for anyone considering booking through the platform.
Staying at Quest on Thorndon was an absolute delight. The room was spotlessly clean, with a tidy layout and fresh linens—everything felt well-maintained and comfortable. The staff were genuinely friendly and helpful, offering local tips and assistance with transportation options without hesitation. What truly stood out was the location: just a short walk from both the airport train station and bus stop, making travel to and from the city incredibly convenient. I didn’t have to worry about transfers or long commutes—perfect for a quick visit or a late-night arrival. For its cleanliness, service, and unbeatable location, this hotel offers incredible value. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Wellington.
Staying at Bolton Hotel was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality, making us feel right at home. The rooms were spotless, and the comfort of the bedding made for a truly restful night's sleep. We especially loved the peaceful atmosphere enhanced by the garden view from our room—perfect for relaxing in the morning with a cup of coffee. The on-site spa, sauna, and indoor pool were fantastic additions, offering a serene escape after exploring Wellington. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed, and the excellent room service only added to the experience. This wasn’t just a stay—it was a memorable getaway. I’d absolutely book here again without hesitation.
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