The Catlins Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit The Catlins
Curio Bay Salt House Motel
"It was awesome looking out the windows directly at the sea- especially when the dolphins were out playing!! We had everything we needed in the small kitchen for our stay. The bed was nice and comfy. A great place to stay!!"
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
The Kaka Point Motels
"Amazing, great views and so clean. Thank you!!"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Surat Bay Lodge, Motel and Backpackers
"Absolute Magical place. A step back in time really. Great place to stay. Great hosts. Awesome views. Definitely recommend and will definitely be back to stay again."
Reviewed on 15 Mar 2026
Kaka Point Luxury Spa Accommodation
"We had a wonderful stay at Kaka point. Easy booking and entry process, a lovely well appointed apartment with incredible views."
Reviewed on 5 Apr 2026
Pounawea Waterfront Motels
"Loved the view, how quiet it is but close to Owaka with its cafes and 4 square, also how central it was for attractions."
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2022
Catlins Lake Sanctuary
"This was a great base camp for exploring the Catlins. Beds were clean and comfortable, although I felt I had to wipe down the kitchen before using it. The property was amazing! Beautiful views of the estuary, a peaceful place to walk in the mornings, and good view of stars at night."
Reviewed on 28 Feb 2020
Popular places to visit
Nugget Point Lighthouse
Sitting high above the water’s edge, this historic lighthouse has been a fixture of the Catlins for more than a century.
McLean Falls
This two-part waterfall is the end-point of an easy walk through varied forest and bush land and one of the most impressive in the Catlins area.
Purakaunui Falls
Visit the Catlins’ most famous waterfalls to see why it has adorned postcards and postage stamps for decades.
Jack's Blowhole
See the powerful natural feature named after a Māori chief by following a short trail on a private sheep farm.
Cathedral Caves
Explore the great outdoors at Cathedral Caves, a lovely green space in Chaslands. Wander the forests and seaside while you're in the area.
Kaka Point Scenic Reserve
Explore the great outdoors at Kaka Point Scenic Reserve, a lovely green space in Kaka Point. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.
