Must-Visit Places and Attractions in Bay of Islands, New Zealand 2025

Q: What is the Bay of Islands best known for?

The Bay of Islands is celebrated for its breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural history. It's a paradise for nature enthusiasts and history lovers, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Q: When is the best time to visit the Bay of Islands?

The ideal time to explore the Bay of Islands is during the warmer months from November to April. This period offers the best weather for enjoying outdoor activities and water adventures.

Q: Where is the best place for tourists to stay in the Bay of Islands?

Paihia is a fantastic base for tourists, providing a variety of accommodations and easy access to tours and attractions. It's perfect for exploring the Bay of Islands' beauty and history.

Q: What are the best activities for families in the Bay of Islands?

Families will find plenty to enjoy, from exploring the islands and beaches to wildlife watching and visiting historical sites like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Water activities such as kayaking and snorkeling are also popular.

Q: Is the Bay of Islands suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely! The Bay of Islands is a welcoming destination for solo travelers, offering a safe and friendly environment. There are numerous tours and excursions where you can meet fellow adventurers while enjoying the stunning scenery.

Nestled in the subtropical north of New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is a breathtaking paradise that captivates travelers with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Located on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island, this enchanting region is just a short drive or flight from Auckland, making it an accessible escape for those seeking adventure and relaxation. The Bay of Islands boasts 144 islands, offering a perfect blend of pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and historical charm. As part of the Pacific Ocean, it is a haven for fishing, sailing, and tourism, drawing visitors from around the globe. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply in search of an unforgettable experience, the Bay of Islands promises an aquatic playground and a deeper understanding of New Zealand's heritage.

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Things to do

Hotels

Top things to do in Bay of Islands

See 14 things to do in Bay of Islands

Museums • Bay of Islands

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Experience Pass in Bay of Islands

Book now for tomorrow

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

★ 4.9 (14) • 500+ booked

£ 80.95

Outdoor & sports activities • Bay of Islands

Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

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English guided

Morning departure

3-5 hrs

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

★ 4.4 (10) • 400+ booked

£ 73.59

Tours • From Auckland

Bay of Islands Explorer Experience Small Group Tour

English guided

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

New Activity

£ 164.49

Cruises • Bay of Islands

Hole in the Rock Cruise and Island Tour in Bay of Islands

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English guided

3-5 hrs

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

★ 5.0 (5) • 50+ booked

£ 69.25

Cruises • Bay of Islands

Discover the Bay Hole in the Rock Cruise includes Island Lunch

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English guided

Morning departure

3-5 hrs

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

50+ booked

£ 82.25

Tours • From Bay of Islands

Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach Full Day Tour

English guided

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

★ 4.3 (10) • 300+ booked

£ 84.39

Outdoor & sports activities • Bay of Islands

Tandem Skydiving Experience in the Bay of Islands

English guided

Up to 3 hrs

100+ booked

From £ 143.99

Cruises • Bay of Islands

Ocean Adventure Fast Boat to the Hole in the Rock

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Morning departure

Up to 3 hrs

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

★ 4.5 (2)

£ 64.95

Tours • Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands Tall Ship Tour

English guided

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

★ 5.0 (3)

From £ 42.85

Cruises • Bay of Islands

Cream Trip Super Cruise and Otehei Bay Tour from Bay of Islands

English guided

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

50+ booked

£ 95.25

Tours • From Bay of Islands

Summer Bay of Islands Day Tour

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English guided

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

£ 198.65

Tours • From Auckland

2 Day Bay of Islands Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland

English guided

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

From £ 324.19

Hotels in Bay of Islands

See 69 hotels in Bay of Islands

Hotels • Bay of Islands

Paihia Beach Front 1 bedroom Apartment

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★ 5.0 (2)

£ 80.83

Hotels • Bay of Islands

Centabay Lodge - Hostel

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★ 4.1 (98)

From £ 38.24

Hotels • Bay of Islands

Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia

Instant confirmation

★ 4.2 (957)

From £ 106.30

Hotels • Bay of Islands

Cliff Edge by the Sea

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★ 4.4 (57)

£ 327.48

Hotels • Bay of Islands

The Sanctuary @ Bay of Islands

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★ 4.9 (28)

£ 178.17

Hotels • Bay of Islands

Bay Sands Seafront Studios

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★ 4.4 (214)

From £ 91.04

Hotels • Bay of Islands

The Captains Motel

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★ 4.5 (213)

From £ 146.91

Hotels • Bay of Islands

Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands

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★ 4.3 (940)

From £ 82.80

Hotels • Bay of Islands

Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel

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★ 4.3 (346)

From £ 133.75

Hotels • Bay of Islands

Palm Tree Lodge

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★ 4.0 (6)

From £ 39.95

Hotels • Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands Holiday Apartments

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★ 4.6 (59)

From £ 88.23

Hotels • Bay of Islands

Paihia Pacific Resort Hotel

Instant confirmation

★ 4.1 (512)

From £ 65.73

J ***

2025-10-13 12:34:50

Great 4.0

Entrance easily missed if you travel along the seaside but once you spot the block it's hard to miss. Very well maintained room, great facilities. Kids loved the game room.

Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia

Klook User

2025-06-23 04:51:22

Fantastic 5.0

My friends and I had a lovely time. Our room was nice with high ceiling, making it feel very spacious. It was also very cleab Siwe, the manager, was also lovely. She served us when we our our breakfast and dinner at the hotel.

Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands

Klook User

2025-08-14 21:37:14

Fantastic 5.0

amazing guide. amazing experience. I could have asked for nothing more from this great team. would reccomend for anyone.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Experience Pass in Bay of Islands

General info

Time zone
GMT +12:00
No time difference
Currency
New Zealand Dollar
1GBP = 2.31NZD
Official languages
English
Best time to visit
DEC - FEB
Summer months offer warm weather and excellent sailing conditions.
Recommended trip duration
3 days
Flight time
0.75 hours
When departing from Auckland

Bay of Islands

Top things to do in Bay of Islands

Hotels in Bay of Islands

Reviews of Bay of Islands activities

Quick facts about Bay of Islands

Time zone

Currency

Official languages

Best time to visit

Recommended trip duration

Flight time

FAQs about Bay of Islands

What is the Bay of Islands best known for?

When is the best time to visit the Bay of Islands?

Where is the best place for tourists to stay in the Bay of Islands?

What are the best activities for families in the Bay of Islands?

Is the Bay of Islands suitable for solo travelers?

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Everything you need for your Bay of Islands visit

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