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!

The Best Places to Stay in Picton

For a Central Stay

• Sennen House was built in 1886, and sits within verdant gardens. Book one of three appealing studios and apartments with lovely balconies, kitchenettes and sitting rooms. Breakfast hampers are delivered each morning, and you can easily stroll into central Picton for cafés and restaurants. For couples, friends or families with teenagers.
• Escape to Picton has just one room and two suites on the marina in Picton. Known for its excellent seafood restaurant, this little property is a foodie favourite. It's also great for couples or friends eager to stay in the heart of Picton, within easy reach of all the attractions. Charming.

For Honeymooners

• The Sounds Retreat is a cool, contemporary suite with superb views over Queen Charlotte Sound. Pick this place for the indulgent feel, the sense of privacy, and the beautiful candelit gourmet dinners. The team pride themselves on organising epic activities — from private vineyard tours in a 1985 Land Rover Defender to helicopter trips and fishing charters. A honeymoon escape.

For Secluded Luxury

• Bay of Many Coves Resort has one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with spectacular views over Arthur's Bay. Set on 52 hectares of private grounds, this secluded escape can be accessed only by air or water. Families and groups will delight in fantastic food, hikes, sailing and fishing trips. Brilliant for bird watching, too.
• Raetihi Lodge offers space for up to 28 guests in a beautiful coastal spot on Kenepuru Sound. Exclusive bookings are ideal for wedding, family or group celebrations. There's fabulous food, kayaking, hiking, fishing and boat trips to entertain visitors of all ages. Superb.
• No Road Inn is an indulgent 5-bedroom contemporary lodge, perfect for exclusive group or family holidays. With the Queen Charlotte Track running through the back garden, and plenty of kayaking, boat trips and cycling opportunities in the area, this is one for outdoorsy travellers dreaming of absolute privacy. Accessed by boat, helicopter or on foot.

For Great Value

• The Portage Resort offers a collection of simple rooms and two-bedroom suites, 15 minutes from Picton by water taxi. An affordable base for family trips, with kayaks, paddle boards and fishing gear to hire. Ten minutes from the Queen Charlotte Track. Complete with two restaurants, a swimming pool and lawn games. Fun and friendly.
• Lochmara Lodge is another well-priced eco-lodge with flexible room options for couples, families or groups. Arrive by water taxi, seaplane or mountain bike, as there's no road access. Kayak, hike the Queen Charlotte Track or marvel at the lodge's bird conservation projects, as well as its stationary underwater observatory -- one of only two in NZ. Family-run and welcoming.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to nearby Blenheim Airport, or to Nelson Airport from Wellington, Christchurch or Auckland and travel to your hotel by bus or taxi. Alternatively, hop aboard the regular ferry from Wellington to Picton.
• New Zealand is famously wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the spring or summer for the best weather, with temperatures peaking around 18-22°C between December and April. For a quieter trip and great deals, look at May or October-November, though these months will be cooler and showers more frequent.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay In Blenheim.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the South Island.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Picton