The Catlins Travel Guide
Tourist Guide





Visit The Catlins

Curio Bay Salt House Motel
Unobstructed beach view. Great location, lovely room with breakfast provided. Good parking.
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026

The Kaka Point Motels
Tidy and clean staff were great and had water views
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026

Catlins Newhaven Holiday Park
I forgot to ask and there didnt seem to be a drop off box for early edpartures 0700. We were able to upgrade to self contained whare as heavy rain to move between buildings
Reviewed on 21 Apr 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.

Jack's Blowhole
See the powerful natural feature named after a Māori chief by following a short trail on a private sheep farm.

Purakaunui Falls
Visit the Catlins’ most famous waterfalls to see why it has adorned postcards and postage stamps for decades.

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.

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.

Waipapa Point Lighthouse
You can learn about the history of Otara with a trip to Waipapa Point Lighthouse. Stroll along the beaches or visit the monuments while you're in the area.

