Where to Stay in Wanaka, New Zealand: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Wanaka? You’re in the right place!

This South Island gem is one of those places that captures your heart the moment you arrive. With its glittering lake, dramatic mountain backdrop, and easygoing vibe, Wanaka is both adventurous and laid-back at the same time. 

Choosing the right area to stay can make all the difference, whether you want the buzz of cafés and shops right on your doorstep or peaceful green spaces where locals gather for picnics. The town is compact and walkable in the center, but many visitors also enjoy having a car for reaching wineries, hiking trails, and nearby ski fields.

Ready to get started? Let’s go!

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Wanaka

Not sure where to stay in Wanaka? Don’t worry, I’ve been there too! On my first visit, I wasn’t sure which corner of this lakeside town would suit me best. But after exploring Wanaka’s different pockets, I can happily say there’s no bad choice; it just depends on the vibe you’re after.

The great thing is that Wanaka is compact and easy to get around. You can walk almost everywhere in the center, and if you’ve got a car, you’ll have the freedom to explore hiking trails, wineries, and ski fields just beyond town.

From lively Downtown Wanaka to the peaceful lawns of Pembroke Park, the lakeside charm of Lakeside Road, and the rural beauty along Cardrona Valley Road, each area has something unique to offer. Here are the best neighborhoods to help you find your perfect base.

• Downtown Wanaka – The lively heart of the town, full of cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops just steps from the lake. The Alpine Motel is a comfortable option in this area.

• Pembroke Park – Overlooking the lakefront green space, this area blends lake views with easy access to the town center. The Wanaka View Motel offers a cozy stay right by the park with wonderful views of the water.

• Lakeside Road – Stretching east along the water, Lakeside Road offers budget motels, holiday parks, and campgrounds with direct access to swimming and kayaking. The Moorings Motel and Apartments is perfectly placed for lakeside strolls.

• West Wanaka – A leafy, residential side of town that’s closer to hiking trails and where things feel a little calmer. Wanaka Luxury Apartments provide a stylish stay with spacious suites.

• Cardrona Valley Road – The scenic road south toward Queenstown passes boutique lodges and leads to the historic Cardrona village, famous for its hotel, distillery, and ski fields. West Meadows of Wanaka is ideal for road trippers.

Where to Stay in Wanaka 

Downtown Wanaka

Downtown Wanaka is the lively heart of the town and the place where most visitors spend at least part of their trip. Centered around the lakefront and main streets, it’s packed with cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops, all framed by mountain views that never get old. 

This is the most convenient area for first-time visitors because you’ll have everything at your fingertips, from tour operators and rental shops to the best spots for morning coffee and lakeside dining.

I love how walkable it is here! You can start your day with a stroll along the lakefront, browse the boutiques on Helwick Street, then grab a drink in the evening without ever needing a car. The flip side is that it can feel busy, especially in summer when the lakefront buzzes with swimmers, picnickers, and travelers fresh off the hiking trails. Parking can also be tricky in peak season, so it’s worth factoring that in. 

Still, if you want to be in the middle of it all with Wanaka’s best energy at your doorstep, this is the place to stay.

Pros

• Central location with cafés, shops, and lakefront right outside your door
• Walkable and convenient for tours, dining, and nightlife

Cons

• Can feel crowded during peak season
• Parking is limited

Archway Motels & Chalets – $$

Archway Motels & Chalets is a peaceful little retreat tucked just 200 meters (656 ft) from Lake Wanaka, yet still close to the buzz of downtown. Set on two acres of gardens with native trees, roses, and fruit trees, it feels wonderfully green and spacious compared to many central stays.

I love the thoughtful extras here, from the children’s playground with a trampoline and swings to the covered BBQ area where you can enjoy a relaxed evening meal. The self-catering units are practical and comfortable, each with parking at the door, a flat-screen TV, and a verandah with outdoor seating.

Guests can also book the wooden hot tub, which looks out over the gardens and mountains, such a fun way to unwind after a day of hiking or skiing! With ski storage, tuning tools, and even in-room continental breakfast delivery, this place covers all the details. Rooms typically cost between $250 and $450 NZD per night, depending on the season.

Alpine Motel – $$

The Alpine Motel strikes a perfect balance between convenience and comfort, sitting just a 5-minute walk from Wanaka’s town center and the lakeshore. The suites and apartments are self-contained with well-equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, making them ideal if you like the option of cooking a few meals during your stay.

I appreciate the little extras too, like free off-street parking, 5GB of WiFi each day, and daily room service that keeps things feeling fresh! The motel is surrounded by lovely gardens with a BBQ area for relaxed outdoor dining, and you’ll also find practical perks like a guest laundry on site. Inside, the units are spacious and comfortable, with lounge areas, heating, and air-conditioning for year-round stays.

Staff can help arrange everything from skydiving and scenic flights to winery visits and jet boating, so it’s easy to fill your days with adventure. Rooms here start from $260 NZD per night, offering excellent value for a central, self-contained stay.

Bella Vista Motel Lake Wanaka – $$

Tucked on a quiet street just 150 metres from the lake, Bella Vista Motel Lake Wanaka gives you the best of both worlds, peace and privacy with all of downtown’s cafés, restaurants, and wine bars just a short stroll away. The location is especially handy if you want to be right in the center without feeling surrounded by too much buzz.

The rooms are simple, clean, and fully serviced, with heating and electric blankets to keep things cozy in winter. Free WiFi and off-street parking make it practical, while the secure garage for motorbikes is a thoughtful touch. Guests also have access to laundry facilities, and continental breakfast can be arranged if you’d rather ease into the day without hunting down a café.

With summer activities like fishing, hiking, and skydiving nearby, plus ski fields within easy reach in winter, this motel makes a versatile base year-round. Rooms typically range from $300–$500 NZD per night.

Pembroke Park

Pembroke Park is one of Wanaka’s most scenic and relaxed spots to base yourself, sitting right on the edge of the lakefront green space that locals love. This wide-open park stretches along the water and is perfect for picnics, morning walks, or just kicking back with a coffee while soaking up the mountain views. 

Staying here means you’ll have some of the best views in town right outside your door, yet you’re still only a few minutes’ walk from the cafés, restaurants, and shops of downtown.

I love the slower pace around Pembroke Park—it feels calmer and more laid-back compared to the buzzier center. It’s the kind of place where you can start your day with a peaceful stroll along the lake and still be close enough to dive into the action when you want. 

The only drawback is that accommodation here is in high demand, so rooms can book up quickly, especially in summer. Still, for atmosphere, location, and views, it’s hard to beat!

Pros

• Gorgeous lake and mountain views from the park
• Easy walking distance to downtown cafés, shops, and restaurants

Cons

• Limited number of hotels in this area
• Rooms book up quickly in peak season

Wanaka View Motel – $$

Wanaka View Motel is a charming base just 200 meters (656 ft) from the lakefront and the center of town, making it one of the most convenient stays in the Pembroke Park area. As the name suggests, some of the apartments come with lake views, which really add to the magic of waking up here.

Even the standard units feel cozy and well-kept, with LCD TVs, tea, and plunger coffee, and plenty of space to settle in. I like that the apartments are self-contained, with kitchens for easy meal prep, plus thoughtful touches like a ski drying room and free Wi-Fi.

There’s also free on-site parking, a shared laundry, and a tour desk to help book activities from ski passes to day trips. For winter sports, the Cardrona and Treble Cone ski fields are about a 45-minute drive away, so it’s a practical pick for skiers and snowboarders too. Rooms generally cost $250–$450 NZD per night, depending on the season.

Aspiring Lodge Motel – $

Aspiring Lodge Motel is a welcoming, budget-friendly option right in the center of Wanaka, just 100 meters (328 feet) from the lake and surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and shops. Many of the rooms come with balconies or private courtyards that open up to stunning mountain views, which is a real treat at this price point.

Inside, the rooms are cozy and practical, with heating, electric blankets, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges. Some units also include cooking facilities if you’d like the option to prepare your own meals. We like the thoughtful extras here, too, like free secure off-street parking and complimentary newspapers on request.

With the Cardrona and Treble Cone ski fields about a 30-minute drive away, it’s a great base for both winter sports and summer lake days. You can expect to pay around $240–$330 NZD per night.

Lakeside Road

Lakeside Road stretches east from downtown and hugs the shoreline of Lake Wanaka, making it one of the most scenic spots to stay in town and close to the famous Wanaka Tree.

This area is especially popular with families and nature lovers, since you can step out of your hotel and be right at the water’s edge for swimming, kayaking, or just a leisurely stroll. It has a relaxed, outdoorsy feel that makes mornings by the lake feel extra special.

I like that Lakeside Road offers a mix of motels, holiday parks, and campgrounds, so it’s more budget-friendly compared to the very center of town. That said, it’s still close enough to walk or bike into the heart of Wanaka when you want restaurants, shops, or nightlife. 

The main trade-off is that it’s quieter in the evenings, which can feel either peaceful or a little too subdued depending on your style. Still, for those who want direct access to the lake and a slower pace, this area is hard to beat.

Pros

• Direct access to Lake Wanaka for swimming and kayaking
• Family-friendly with motels, holiday parks, and campgrounds

Cons

• Quieter at night with fewer dining options
• A bit of a walk from the main downtown hub

Marina Terrace Apartments – $$$

Marina Terrace Apartments is one of the most elegant stays along Lakeside Road, combining modern comfort with gorgeous lake and mountain views. The apartments are spacious and fully equipped, with kitchens, washing machines, and even dishwashers, which makes them perfect for longer stays or anyone who likes a home-away-from-home feel.

I especially love the private terraces and balconies where you can soak in the scenery—such a highlight after a day of exploring. The property also comes with resort-style amenities, including a wellness center, fitness facilities, and a swimming pool with a view. Free Wi-Fi and a beautifully maintained garden round out the thoughtful touches.

From here, you’re within easy reach of Wanaka’s must-sees like Puzzling World, the iconic Wanaka Tree, and Cardrona ski fields, all while enjoying a quieter lakeside setting. Rooms here start from $400 NZD per night.

The Moorings Motel and Apartments – $$

The Moorings Motel and Apartments offer one of the best locations on Lakeside Road, with stunning views across the lake to the mountains and just a five-minute walk into Wanaka’s center. The rooms and apartments are well set up with cooking facilities, under-floor heating, and even Netflix—perfect for cozy evenings after a big day outdoors.

Families will appreciate that there’s a playground right across the road, while skiers can make use of the on-site ski storage room. We like how practical this property feels without losing its charm. There are BBQ facilities for laid-back meals, a self-service laundry, and free parking, plus Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Whether you’re here for summer lake adventures or winter slopes at Cardrona and Treble Cone, the Moorings makes an easy and comfortable base. Rates average around $400 NZD per night.

West Wanaka

West Wanaka is a leafy, residential side of town that feels calmer and more spacious compared to the bustling center. It’s the kind of neighborhood where you can unwind after a day of adventures, with tree-lined streets and easy access to walking and biking trails. For me, it has a more local feel, and it’s especially appealing if you want a peaceful base without being too far from the lake and town.

This part of Wanaka is also close to some of the area’s most popular outdoor spots, including Rippon Vineyard and the start of scenic hikes like the Waterfall Creek Track. You’ll still be only a short drive or bike ride from downtown, but the vibe here is noticeably more relaxed. 

The main trade-off is that dining and shopping options are limited, so you’ll likely head into central Wanaka for meals and nightlife. Still, if you value space, quiet, and nature on your doorstep, West Wanaka is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Peaceful, residential vibe with easy access to trails and vineyards
• Spacious accommodations with more room to relax

Cons

• Limited dining and shopping in the immediate area
• Requires a short drive or bike ride into town for nightlife
  

Edgewater Hotel – $$$

Edgewater Hotel is one of Wanaka’s most iconic stays, set just 2 km (1.2 mi) from the town center with sweeping lake views and rolling green lawns that lead right down to the water. The resort feels spacious and serene, with plenty of ways to relax, including outdoor hot tubs, a sauna, and even a tennis court.

The accommodation is spread out across the grounds, giving it a tranquil village-like feel, and many rooms feature balconies or patios to make the most of the scenery. The on-site restaurant and café both come with lake views and serve contemporary dishes inspired by Central Otago’s seasonal produce.

I love the focus on sustainability here, and the menus change regularly to highlight local ingredients. From the front of the property, you can pick up the Millennium Walkway for a lakeside stroll, or book adventures like hiking, biking, or skydiving through the concierge. Rooms generally range from $300–$700 NZD per night, depending on the season.

Wanaka Luxury Apartments – $$

Wanaka Luxury Apartments bring a touch of indulgence to the leafy West Wanaka neighborhood, just 600 meters from the lake. Each self-contained apartment comes with a cozy fireplace, making it a perfect retreat in winter, while in summer, you can enjoy the outdoor heated pool, sun terrace, and hot tub.

We love the little extras here, like the wood-fired pizza oven, BBQ area, and outdoor fireplace by the spa, which give the property a fun, social feel. Inside, the apartments are stylish and well-equipped, with flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and kitchens or kitchenettes. Some even include spa baths or wall-mounted Miele espresso machines for that added bit of luxury.

Free Wi-Fi is included, and with Cardrona and Treble Cone ski fields about a 35-minute drive away, it’s a fantastic option for skiers as well as summer travelers. Rooms start from around $240 NZD per night, offering excellent value for such a well-appointed stay.

Cardrona Valley Road

Cardrona Valley Road stretches south from Wanaka toward Queenstown, winding through some of the region’s most beautiful scenery. Staying along this road gives you easy access to the historic Cardrona village, home to the legendary Cardrona Hotel and Distillery, as well as the ski fields that make this area so popular in winter.

The drive itself is a highlight, with rolling hills, wide valleys, and big skies that show off Central Otago at its best. I think this area is a fantastic choice for travelers who want a rural, peaceful base with a bit of character. You’re still close enough to Wanaka (about a 10-minute drive) for dining and shopping, but the atmosphere here is much more relaxed.

It’s especially appealing if you’re planning to ski, snowboard, or explore the backcountry trails nearby. The main drawback is that you won’t have the lake or town right at your doorstep, so having a car is essential. But for those who enjoy space, scenery, and a touch of alpine history, Cardrona Valley Road is hard to beat.

Pros

• Easy access to ski fields and historic Cardrona village
• Peaceful rural setting with beautiful scenery

Cons

• Requires a car for dining, shopping, and lake access
• Less atmosphere in the evenings compared to central Wanaka

Oakridge Resort Lake Wanaka – $$

Oakridge Resort Lake Wanaka is a relaxing retreat about 5 km (3.1 mi) from the lake, surrounded by nature and perfectly positioned for outdoor adventures. In summer, you can head out for bushwalks, mountain biking, or kayaking, while in winter the ski fields at Cardrona and Treble Cone are just a short drive away.

It feels like the kind of place where you can spend your days exploring and then return to unwind in comfort. The resort has a heated pool with a poolside bar, so you can enjoy a swim no matter the season, plus a restaurant that serves creative New Zealand cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.

It’s a well-rounded property that gives you the perks of a resort stay while still keeping the laid-back Wanaka vibe. Rooms here average $330–$450 NZD per night.

West Meadows of Wanaka – $$

West Meadows of Wanaka is a modern, stylish motel set just 1.6 km (1 mi) from the town center, with stunning alpine views in every direction. The rooms are fresh and comfortable, each with a kitchenette, private bathrooms stocked with Koha NZ toiletries, and thoughtful extras like bathrobes and slippers.

Daily servicing keeps everything spotless, and the property also includes ski and bike storage, which is handy if you’re heading for the slopes or trails. I like that the location feels peaceful without being remote. You’re only a short drive or a 15-minute walk from the lake, and right across the street, you’ll find a local restaurant and a movie theater.

Free Wi-Fi and parking add convenience, and the warm, modern interiors make this a great base year-round. Rates average around $350 NZD per night.

Top Activities to do in Wanaka

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect area and hotel in Wanaka, it’s time to start planning what to do while you’re here! Wanaka is one of the South Island’s most breathtaking destinations, with a mix of outdoor adventures, relaxing escapes, and world-class scenery. To help you narrow it down, here are some of the best activities I recommend adding to your itinerary.

• Fly to Milford Sound and Cruise – Experience one of New Zealand’s most famous sights with this scenic flight and cruise combo. You’ll soar over glaciers, alpine lakes, and rugged peaks before landing in Milford Sound to join a boat cruise beneath sheer cliffs and waterfalls.

• Bike the Wanaka & Hawea Trails – These scenic trails are perfect for families or anyone wanting a relaxed ride. On this bike tour, you’ll pedal along rivers, across swing bridges, and by the lake with plenty of spots to stop for photos or a snack. It’s safe, fun, and a great way to soak up Wanaka’s beauty.

• Sip and savor on a wine tour – Spend the day exploring Central Otago’s boutique wineries on this guided tour from Wanaka. You’ll taste award-winning pinot noirs and other varietals while learning about the region’s wine-making traditions.

• Take a jet boat ride on the Clutha River – Hold on tight for this high-speed adventure along New Zealand’s fastest-flowing river. You’ll skim past cliffs, twist through narrow canyons, and learn about the river’s gold-mining history between adrenaline-pumping spins.

• Climb a Waterfall – This guided adventure lets you scale a stunning waterfall near Wanaka using iron rungs and safety cables. It’s an intermediate-level climb that takes about five hours return, and the views from the top make the effort more than worth it!

Related Read: Want even more ideas? Check out my detailed guide to the best things to do in Wanaka here—it’s packed with adventures, local tips, and hidden gems you won’t want to miss!

Thanks for reading!

Wanaka is one of those South Island spots you just can’t skip! I’ve returned here time and again, staying in different corners of town each trip. Every area offers something a little different, and I’m sure with this guide you’ll find the one that feels just right for your stay.

If you need help planning the rest of your trip, check out all of my South Island blogs here! Whether you’re road tripping through mountain passes, chasing adventure, or simply looking for a quiet lakeside escape, I have guides that highlight the best areas and activities. To kick things off, here are a few related blogs you can dive right into:

How to Get from Wanaka to Milford Sound + Best Stops

10 BEST Tours in Wanaka that You Don’t Want to Miss in 2025

15 BEST Restaurants in Wanaka (Amazing Food and Better Views!)