The gateway to spectacular Marlborough Sounds — and Queen Charlotte Sound in particular — the small seaside community of Picton is a marvellous base for a relaxing coastal escape or an adventurous holiday with friends and family. You’ll be perfectly placed to discover the Marlborough wine region, to hike or cycle, or to take to the water for sailing, fishing and kayaking. Carefully selected by our expert gurus, our list of the best places to stay in Picton includes everything from a heritage B&B to a remote eco-resort accessible only by speedboat or helicopter.
Set in an an inlet known as Picton Harbour, the town itself is fringed by verdant hills and mountains. Stroll the streets to admire boutiques and eateries — you'll find most of the action clustered around the marina. Keen adventurers can hike or cycle a portion of the 70km Queen Charlotte Track, or take to the skies for helicopter rides and skydiving. Enjoy sailing lessons or charter a yacht for trips around scenic coves and out to spot endemic birds on Motuara Island. Shipwreck dives are also popular, as are dolphin watching expeditions.
Twenty minutes’ drive away, the Marlborough wine region is sensational. Explore Blenheim and visit some of the area’s hundred vineyards and 40 cellar doors for a taste of New Zealand's most famous export. Many of the best places to stay in Picton also pair top wines with gourmet fare at their in-house restaurants — a foodie dream!
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Picton (Queen Charlotte Sound)
Accessed by seaplane or water taxi, this relaxed eco-lodge on Lochmara Bay is perfect for couples, groups or families. Flexible room options have kitchenettes, balconies & simple, traditional interiors. Hike, kayak, paddle board or marvel at the underwater aquarium & conservation projects. Lovely.
Picton (Marlborough Sounds)
A collection of affordable rooms and suites for fun, outdoorsy trips to the Sounds. Bright, modern rooms have great views to Kenepuru Sound - some boast private balconies. With an outdoor swimming pool, spa, gardens and two restaurants, this is a relaxed, family-friendly base.
Picton (Kenepuru Sound)
Luxury lodge on Kenepuru Sound, with chic, comfortable rooms offering sea, garden and hill views. Waterfront restaurant, fishing rods and kayaks for exploring. Close to a 9-hole golf course, Queen Charlotte Track and wineries. Book the whole place for a relaxing escape with family and friends.
Picton (South Island)
A modern motel minutes from Picton's seafront with neat and spacious, well-designed apartment-style rooms. With a friendly, helpful service it's ideal for exploring the Marlborough Sounds.
Picton (Picton)
A historic, 1886-built homestead transformed into boutique accommodation in Picton. Four-poster beds, original NZ artworks and elegant furnishings. Formal gardens and Queen Elizabeth II National Trust protected native forest to the rear. Walking distance to restaurants and Queen Charlotte Track.
Picton
A charming two-bedroom B&B set in flower-filled gardens in Picton. Rooms features antiques and expansive town & mountain views. Big breakfasts & four-course Chef's Table dinners will delight foodies. Unwind on the terrace, share the suite as a family, or take cooking classes with co-owner Margaret.
Picton
Fun & lively boutique hotel on Picton's waterfront. Romantic rooms decorated in a neutral palette with opulent accessories including chandeliers, wooden floors and free standing baths. Highly acclaimed on site restaurant for local seafood & more. Great base for exploring Marlborough region.
Picton (Arthur's Bay)
Tranquil and private luxury eco-resort with spacious, elegant rooms & apartments. Outdoor decks & huge picture windows make the most of fantastic views over the bay. With a fine dining restaurant, private jetty, hot tub, outdoor swimming pool and 52 hectares of grounds.
Picton (Picton)
A luxury suite overlooking Queen Charlotte Sound, framed by mountains, offering the perfect escape for two. Accommodation is chic and contemporary with picture windows and glass doors leading onto a terrace complete with a hot tub. Fine-dining is offered under the stars. A romantic choice.
Picton (Queen Charlotte Track)
Accessible only by water taxi, helicopter or on foot, this exclusive-use lodge is the first night's stay along the Queen Charlotte Track. 5 light, airy rooms with private outdoor decks, showers and baths. With an outdoor hot tub, native forest garden, restaurant and wifi. Luxury in the wilderness.
