Waterfront holiday rentals in Canterbury

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Top-rated waterfront accommodation in Canterbury

Guests agree: These waterfront accommodation options are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Superhost
A charming villa is positioned on a gently sloping landscape overlooking Children's Bay. Lush greenery surrounds the property, complemented by the serene waters reflecting the soft hues of the sunset, while distant mountains can be seen enhancing the tranquil setting.
Villa in Akaroa

Stylish Seaview Villa perched above Akaroa

This beautifully renovated villa overlooking Children's Bay and the Akaroa township was the original farmhouse for the land surrounding her. While retaining the character of the villa, the house has been lovingly restored to create thoughtful sunny spaces in a home away from home. 5 minute stroll down the hill and you are in the village of Akaroa where you will find an abundance of fine local restaurants, unique shops and activities. Free Wifi, comfortable beds, 2 person spa, BBQ, Tv Streaming.

ViewBeachFamily

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 314 reviews
Guest favourite
A charming two-story cottage is framed by lush vegetation, with large windows allowing natural light to fill the interior. The Southern Alps rise majestically in the background, capped with snow, creating a striking contrast against the warm tones of the cottage.
Cottage in Ōkārito

Beautiful cottage with mountain and sea views

Watch the sunset over the Tasman Sea from the deck of this beautiful character cottage, or walk out the door directly across to the beach, with stunning views back to the Southern Alps. Enjoy the peace and beauty of the Ōkārito Lagoon, surrounding National Park, native forest walks and bird life, including tui, kōtuku (white heron) and kiwi. Listen to the sound of the sea & the call of ruru NZ's native morepork owl. High quality linen, towels, Free Wi-Fi, fridge/freezer, tea and coffee included.

ViewBeachBiking

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 340 reviews
Guest favourite
A sunlit corner of the suite is captured, featuring large windows that frame scenic views of the garden and ocean beyond. A wooden table sits beside a comfortable leather chair, while fresh air enters through the open door leading to a tranquil outdoor space.
Guest suite in Hapuku

The Oceanview Suite

Discover the enchanting Mangamaunu Retreat, where breathtaking ocean and mountain views await you year-round. Nestled in a peaceful and secluded setting, our property offers some of the most spectacular vistas in Kaikōura. Wander through our five acres of gardens, featuring fruit orchards and sculpted native bush. Located on the Mangamaunu coastline, we’re just a two-minute stroll from the world-famous surf beach. Unwind and rejuvenate in one of New Zealand’s most stunning and unique locations.

ViewBeachOutdoor spaces

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A scenic view captures a serene landscape featuring lush greenery and a calm lake, framed by distant mountains under a clear sky. The soft light of sunset casts a warm glow over the area, enhancing the tranquil setting.
Bungalow in Moana

Tui Lakehouse-Iveagh Bay - Lake Brunner

Take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway in stunning Iveagh Bay just 4kms from Moana. Mt Te Kinga is right on our doorstep for those who enjoy hiking and bush walks. The lake is perfect for water sports year round! Enjoy a weekend or longer stay and base yourself here to explore the untamed WC and all she has to offer. Well behaved pooches are welcome! *The property is not fully fenced and has a small creek out the back. The secret is out...Iveagh Bay is where you need to be!

RiverViewSleep quality

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviews
Superhost
An outdoor deck features a luxury hot tub overlooking a lake and mountains. Large glass doors provide seamless access between indoor and outdoor spaces. A wooden chair is positioned beside the tub, inviting relaxation in this serene setting.
Cottage in Lake Tekapo

Stargazer’s Luxury Retreat - Lake Tekapo

For those who fancy a luxury escape; Stargaze the Milky Way from your own luxury outdoor bath, then come inside to a toasty warm fire. Enjoy the comfort of a king size bed with luxury linen, looking directly through to the lake and mountains beyond. In the bathroom, relax in our freestanding bath or enjoy a rain shower for two. Take in unobstructed views of the lake and mountains from your lounge room by day, and cosy up on the couch or wool beanbag for a movie at night. This is paradise.

ViewBeachCheckout

4.82 out of 5 average rating, 928 reviews
Guest favourite
A sunlit open-plan living area features large glass doors that open to expansive water views. A wooden coffee table rests on a soft area rug, and comfortable armchairs invite relaxation, all while natural light fills the space, highlighting the serene waterfront landscape.
Home in Charteris Bay

Church Bay Hideaway - Beach Access & Sea Views

Escape to our cosy seaside retreat, just 30 minutes from Christchurch. Wake to breathtaking ocean views, wander down to the secluded beach and jetty, and soak up all-day sun from this north-facing haven. Perfect for couples or families, this peaceful escape is surrounded by native NZ trees and birdsong. Enjoy the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience, with local amenities just a 2-minute drive away. Explore the coastline, relax on the deck, or simply do nothing at all.

ViewBeachFamily

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 238 reviews
Guest favourite
A spacious bed is dressed in soft linens, complemented by decorative pillows. Soft lighting from bedside lamps casts a warm glow, while a sheer canopy drapes overhead, enhancing the room's cozy ambiance. Wooden walls provide a rustic backdrop.
Home in Tai Tapu

Mangels

Mangels: • Fully furnished property • Fully renovated three double bedrooms • New kitchen with fridge freezer, microwave, dishwasher, hob, oven and extractor hood • Rimu polished wooden floors throughout • French doors from all of the bedrooms, the lounge and the kitchen /dining area • Large deck that looks out on to the Halswell river and the • Private location • Located next to the Halswell river • Car parking for at least 5 cars

ViewRiverLong stay

4.8 out of 5 average rating, 887 reviews
Guest favourite
An inviting living area features a cozy gray sofa and a daybed adorned with decorative cushions. A wooden coffee table sits on a rich red rug, while large windows offer stunning views of the turquoise waters and surrounding hills. A TV and telescope are also present.
Home in Wainui

Spectacular views at Wainui Waterfront Haven

Step into a world where sparkling Akaroa Harbour is just steps away — Pīwakawaka Retreat, a sun-drenched haven where everyday worries drift away. Our waterfront sanctuary offers both relaxation and adventure: explore rock pools, swim at the sandy beach, fish on the harbour, or simply unwind on the deck as the sun sets. Whether exploring Banks Peninsula or watching the light shift over Purple Peak, our place, is the perfect place to slow down and connect with nature.

ViewBeachNearby

4.86 out of 5 average rating, 179 reviews
Guest favourite
A cozy living area features a comfortable leather sofa and an armchair beside a wood burner, creating an inviting ambiance. A wooden coffee table is placed centrally on a soft rug, with books and a woven placemat arranged upon it.
Home in Twizel

Mountain View Abode - Spectacular Views In Twizel

Mountain View Abode is a spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with sweeping views of the Southern alps, on the edge of the picturesque high country town of Twizel. Set on 2 acres overlooking a private pond towards snow covered peaks, it’s also a stone's throw to the town square and shops, restaurants and cafes. Our home is situated in an exclusive position directly on the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, and is a perfect base for exploring Mount Cook National Park.

RiverViewCleanliness

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 371 reviews
Guest favourite
A wide panoramic view of Taylors Mistake beach showcases gentle waves lapping the sandy shore, framed by lush green hills. The golden light of dawn casts a warm glow over the tranquil water, highlighting the natural beauty of the coastline.
Apartment in Sumner

Te Onepoto lodge Sumner, 151a TM road

The most relaxing break in CHRISTCHURCH city with spa. Early check in / late checkout ok. Enjoy complimentary breakfast overlooking Taylors Mistake beach in the affluent suburb of Sumner. This stunning 80 sq metre apartment set in a rustic bach environment is everything you need. Sleep to the sound of surf below and wake to the beauty of the sunrise and sound of native birds in the NZ bush. Enjoy the four metre window seat looking across the bay

BeachViewCheck-in

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 345 reviews
Top Guest favourite
Cabin in Franz Josef

Luxury Wilderness Cabin on Private Lake

Luxury off-grid cabin nestled on the edge of a small lake fed by a pristine mountain stream a 3-minute drive from Franz Josef Glacier village. Sensational views of snow-capped mountains, the lake, glacier, Fritz Falls & rainforest. Super King bed, sunsets, outdoor stone bath, cedar barrel sauna with panoramic window & nature's swimming pool on your doorstep. Experience luxury amidst nature.

RiverViewLocation

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 364 reviews
Guest favourite
An outdoor area features a private infinity swimming pool, surrounded by wooden decking and lounge chairs. Soft sunset hues reflect on the calm water, while lush greenery and rolling hills provide a scenic backdrop. A spacious home is visible in the distance.
Home in Lyttelton

Hidden Paradise in Christchurch

This house is amazing, it is situated in Cass Bay, a quiet Bay overlooking Lyttelton Harbour, a short 20min drive from Christchurch CBD. It's great for families & also groups. On it's backdoor steps are world class walks, beaches & mountain bike tracks. It is a 5 min drive to Lyttelton, a very cool suburb overlooking the harbour with cool bars & restaurants known for it's music scene.

ViewBeachDecor

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

Popular amenities for Canterbury waterfront rentals