Hotels in Whakatane

Whakatane: Where Islands Embrace Nature’s Wonders and Cultural Treasures

Nestled in the Bay of Plenty, Whakatane is a captivating blend of culture, nature, and adventure. This charming town is your gateway to breathtaking landscapes, from the serene Whakatane River to the stunning beaches of Matata. Explore the rich Māori heritage at the iconic Mataatua Wharenui or embark on an unforgettable day trip to the nearby islands. With lush natural parks and vibrant local markets in the CBD, Whakatane offers a delightful mix of relaxation and exploration. Perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers, this destination promises unique experiences in every corner. For the best hotel rates in Whakatane and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Whakatane

Some of the best places to stay in Whakatane are Coastlands and Kawerau. Whakatane is a fantastic destination for travelers, known for its stunning coastal views, outdoor adventures, and rich Maori culture. Coastlands offers a serene atmosphere with beautiful beaches, while Kawerau is perfect for those seeking hot springs and lush surroundings. For accommodation, both places have a range of hotels and motels providing comfortable stays. For first-time visitors, Whakatane is ideal, as it offers a variety of attractions and easy access to local amenities. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Whakatane:

1. CoastlandsOpens in a new window: Nestled in a region known for its outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Coastlands offers visitors access to stunning natural attractions like Wairere Falls and the Whakatane River Walk. For those interested in history, Mataatua: The House That Came Home provides a glimpse into the area's rich past. When choosing accommodations, consider Pacific Coast Motor LodgeOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star motel that provides entertainment options such as cable TV and a comfortable stay. Another option is Barringtons Motor LodgeOpens in a new window, also a 4.5-star motel, that features sports and recreation activities nearby, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. For a more luxurious experience, Tuscany Villas WhakataneOpens in a new window offers a blend of adventure and business amenities, including a conference center and various adventure sports opportunities.
2. KawerauOpens in a new window: Kawerau is a haven for outdoor lovers, featuring picturesque lakes like Lake Rotoma and Lake Rotoiti, as well as the rejuvenating Awakeri Hot Springs. This area is perfect for those seeking relaxation and scenic beauty. For luxurious stays, Silver Fern Rotorua Suites & SpaOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star motel, offers a full spa service and adventure sports options like ziplining and rafting. If you're in the city center, Regal Palms ResortOpens in a new window provides excellent business amenities and easy access to local attractions. Lastly, for a unique boutique experience, consider Solitaire LodgeOpens in a new window, a lodge that features natural hot springs and a variety of adventure activities like kayaking and fishing, all in a beautifully designed setting.

What to do in Whakatane

Whakatane is a stunning destination perfect for a three-day getaway, featuring beautiful beaches, lush forests, and scenic mountains. Travelers can enjoy activities like hiking challenging trails, relaxing spa treatments, boating, and diving in captivating waters, making it an ideal spot for adventure and relaxation in New Zealand's North Island. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Whakatane:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the breathtaking Otarawairere Bay, where you can soak in the stunning coastal views and enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters. Afterward, take a short hike to the Statue of Wairaka, a significant cultural landmark that tells the story of local Māori heritage. To wind down your day, explore the serene Maraetotara Reserve, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk surrounded by lush native bush, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
• Day 2: Kick off with a visit to the beautiful Ohope Beach, known for its golden sands and inviting waves—ideal for sunbathing or a morning surf. Next, head to the Opotiki Heritage & Agriculture Museum, where you can delve into the region’s rich history and agricultural background. Finally, wrap up your day at the Opotiki District Museum, which showcases fascinating exhibits that highlight the area’s cultural and historical significance, making it a great educational stop.
• Day 3: Start your day at the rejuvenating Awakeri Hot Springs, where you can relax in the soothing thermal waters. After your soak, venture to the nearby Opotiki Beach to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or a picnic with scenic views. Conclude your itinerary at Ohiwa Harbour, a picturesque location perfect for birdwatching or simply enjoying the stunning sunset over the water, making for a memorable end to your Whakatane experience.

5 tips to find a great Whakatane hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For travelers on a budget, the most affordable times to visit Whakatane are August, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. To truly appreciate the area's main attractions, it's best to plan a stay of at least 2-3 days. Whakatane offers great value for money with its stunning natural parks and scenic islands, making it a perfect destination for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Whakatane, you're in luck! Exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com could lead you to some fantastic discounts on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging the best deals, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you could stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Whakatane.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Whakatane is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, buses, bicycles, or walking to explore the area, which is likely to be more affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Whakatane and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Whakatane

Whakatane experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 45.9°F (7.7°C), while January and February are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 63.5°F (17.5°C). September is usually the wettest month. January, April, and December are the peak travel months in Whakatane, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, May, June, and August tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.