Beach Hotels in Arthur's Bay

The resort Bay of Many Coves lies hidden away in a bay by the same name in the Queen Charlotte Sound part of the spectacular Marlborough Sounds. It is a jewel, truly a luxury resort very well worth the price. Amazing attention to detail showed up in all areas, from the comfort of the apartment to the nightly turn-down service to the availability of little snacks all day long and much more. The staff was friendly and sociable and very capable of sensing when some assistance would be helpful. I especially appreciated the gentle attention I received during mealtimes - which is important to a solo traveler. Which brings me to the meals! Breakfast was delicious and offered many choices while the evening meals were just superb. I had signed up for the 5 course package and was impressed with every dish: flavor, variety, presentation, use of local products when possible ... Michelin worthy! Bay of Many Coves also has some wonderful trails to explore. The view from their Lookout Point is well worth the steep climb (the resort provides hiking poles: take them along). I also checked out a kayak one day and enjoyed exploring the bay and checking out the Pied Shags (karuhiruhi - cormorants) in their nests, feeding their almost grown chicks. I had an unforgettable 3 days stay!

Close to nature , beautiful, and the host went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. He baked amazing bread and croissants every morning, came and picked us up from various places and lent us his kayaks and bikes. He was truly friendly and a lovely person. The vibe of the place is in tune with nature. At night you can watch the beautiful sunset from the comfort of an outdoor sofa and slow right down to the rhythm of the earth.

Amazing location, delicious food and very friendly staff. Simon was so helpful - definitely adds a star to the hotel.

Good location. Great restaurant and good facilities.

Luxury accommodation with wonderful views and stunning location to access the town but with views too.

Just beautiful setting. Staff great, food exceptional

Gorgeous views, No crowding, Thoughtful hosts

It is the paradise in the earth!

Upon hearing about the prospect of staying at Lochmara Lodge upon arrival at Picton from North Island, we jumped at the opportunity. Definitely no regrets, as although the lodge is not high end, everything else makes up for it. This was one of our top highlight stays across 5 weeks in New Zealand! We felt so welcomed by staff, before and during our stay! Prior to booking, all questions, including transport via water taxi, were quickly and diligently answered. Upon arrival at the water taxi, we were warmly greeted and helped by staff to ensure a swift check-in ahead of schedule, and the same was experienced upon arrival. The place is set deep in the Marlborough Sounds, and it offered the most amazing scenery and nature all around. It was breathtaking, especially as the sun set and first thing in the morning. The fact that it cannot be reached by car made it extra special and unique. We had two rooms, one water facing and one facing the back-end (this room was perhaps a bit sad). The room was small, quite simple but we did not spend much time inside, as there was so much else to do! We loved the chill and vibe of the place, and the level of activities available to us during our stay. We did hiking, the feeding time activities with the pigs, goats, birds etc on site (we loved the insight provided with all), kayaking, paddle boarding, the games and general relaxation. We also visited the underwater observatory - which was super interesting - and great interaction and insight into the creatures of the New Zealand waters. The restaurant offered an all-day service, including breakfast and dinner for us overnight house guests. The staff was always friendly and welcoming, and the food and drinks were of a high quality. I think we could have easily done a third night at this place, and it provided such a great introduction to what more to come during our time on the South Island.

All facilities in very good condition and worked perfectly. Great beds & shower. The staff very friendly. The vista overlooking the bay with wildlife in the garden was stunning. Short walk to the Jolly Rodger bar/restaurant.