3 Best Hotels in Nelson, Upper South Island and the West Coast

Background Illustration for Hotels

We've compiled the best of the best in Nelson - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Cambria House

$$$ | 7 Cambria St., Nelson, 7010, New Zealand

Built for a sea captain, this restored 1880s Victorian villa pairs antiques with modern fabrics and conveniences, so each bedroom has an en suite bathroom with shower; the three luxury rooms also have a separate bathtub. You can settle in with coffee or a drink in by the wood-burning fireplace in the guest lounge, or on the sunny garden deck, or lose yourself in the woodland garden. The house is near the town center. Hosts Karel and David will attend to your every need, and give you some great ideas for exploring the region they love.

Pros

  • Elegant old house in leafy surroundings
  • Close to the Maitai River and riverside walkway
  • Hospitable, helpful hosts

Cons

  • Tight off-street parking when at capacity (but plenty of street parking)
  • 10-minute walk to town and restaurants
  • Decor a bit old-fashioned
7 Cambria St., Nelson, 7010, New Zealand
03-548–4681
Hotel Details
6 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Delorenzo's Studio Apartments

$$$ | 43–55 Trafalgar St., Nelson, 7010, New Zealand

These spacious and stylish studio apartments have plenty of conveniences, including washer-dryers and very comfy leather lounger chairs. Outside is a heated pool and there's also handy off-street parking. Guests can charge meals at the lovely Tides Restaurant, at nearby Trailways Hotel, to their room.

Pros

  • Walking distance to restaurants, the cinema, and the riverside walk
  • Lots of flashy appliances
  • Great pool

Cons

  • Roadside units have some street noise
  • A bit jammed into a small site
  • Dinner and breakfast not included with the price
43–55 Trafalgar St., Nelson, 7010, New Zealand
03-548–9774
Hotel Details
25 suites
No Meals

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Tides Hotel

$$$ | 66 Trafalgar St., Nelson, 7010, New Zealand

Located in central Nelson, on the banks of the tidal Maitai River, this hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay, with many of the city's attractions within walking distance. Featuring an on-site restaurant and a heated outdoor pool, it also offers accessible suites on the ground floor. Book a riverfront or river view room, some of which feature spa baths and hydro massage showers.  

Pros

  • Laundry self-service
  • Central location
  • Estuary and river views

Cons

  • Noisy plumbing
  • Some suites are small
  • Loud road noise
66 Trafalgar St., Nelson, 7010, New Zealand
03-548–7049
Hotel Details
47 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

Something incorrect in this review?

Recommended Fodor's Video