THINGS TO DO AT LODGE BY THE BEACH
AND IN ABEL TASMAN & NELSON TASMAN
From quiet moments on our secluded shore to coastal walks, private boat trips, wildlife encounters and local food and wine, every stay can be shaped around your own pace and interests.
At The Lodge
PRIVATE BEACH ACCESS
Follow our private path to a large, secluded golden-sand beach. Swim, relax or explore the shoreline while enjoying clear water, native bush and peaceful views across Kaiteriteri Bay.
COMPLIMENTARY KAYAKS & PADDLEBOARDS
Complimentary kayaks, paddleboards and life vests are available for guests. Paddle from the beach below the lodge along the nearby coastline and towards sheltered coves, subject to weather, sea conditions and individual experience.
RELAXATION & WELLNESS
After a day outdoors, unwind in a deep soaking bath or private outdoor spa, depending on your suite. New Zealand Epsom salts are provided, and an in-suite massage can be arranged in advance, subject to therapist availability.
PRIVATE COOKING CLASSES
Join our private chef for a relaxed, hands-on cooking class tailored to your interests. Discover New Zealand ingredients, learn useful techniques and enjoy the dishes you create. Classes are available by prior arrangement and subject to availability.
Explore Abel Tasman
ABEL TASMAN COAST TRACK
Walk a scenic section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track through native forest and above golden bays. Choose a short independent walk, a guided experience or a longer route combined with a water taxi transfer between beaches.
PRIVATE BOAT & SAILING EXPERIENCES
Explore the coastline on a private boat, sailing charter, scenic cruise or water taxi journey. Selected private boat experiences can include pick-up and drop-off from the beach below the lodge, subject to weather and sea conditions.
GUIDED KAYAKING
Join a guided or self-guided kayaking experience from Kaiteriteri or Marahau. Explore sheltered bays, granite headlands and secluded beaches, with options suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers.
SPLIT APPLE ROCK / TOKA NGAWHĀ
Visit one of the region’s best-known natural landmarks by kayak from the beach below the lodge when conditions and experience allow, or as part of a boat or sailing tour. Split Apple Rock is especially beautiful when viewed from the water.
WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
Look for fur seals, dolphins, little blue penguins and native seabirds on responsible small-group boat or kayaking tours. Sightings cannot be guaranteed, but experienced local guides know the coastline and observe wildlife respectfully.
SCENIC FLIGHTS & HELICOPTER TOURS
Take in Abel Tasman, Golden Bay, Farewell Spit and Kahurangi National Park from above on a scenic flight or private helicopter experience. For guests seeking more adventure, skydiving is also available nearby, subject to weather and operator availability.
Discover Nelson Tasman
FOOD, WINE & LOCAL PRODUCERS
Explore boutique wineries, cellar doors, craft breweries, olive groves and artisan food producers across Nelson Tasman. Enjoy relaxed tastings, seasonal produce and the chance to meet local makers independently or on a personalised tour.
GREAT TASTE TRAIL & CYCLING
Cycle a section of Tasman’s Great Taste Trail through vineyards, orchards, coastal landscapes and small towns. E-bikes, shuttles and guided rides are available, with routes for different interests and fitness levels.
ART, MARKETS & LOCAL CRAFT
Discover Nelson’s creative character through galleries, glass artists, sculpture gardens, museums and local studios. The Nelson and Motueka markets also offer fresh produce, artisan food, handmade crafts and a relaxed taste of regional life.
GOLDEN BAY & SCENIC DAY TRIPS
Plan a scenic day trip through Motueka and Tākaka to Golden Bay, with the option to continue towards Farewell Spit. The journey combines coastal views, farmland, small communities and some of the region’s most memorable landscapes.
Personalised Experences & Transport
We work with trusted local partners who know Abel Tasman and Nelson Tasman well. They can create personalised experiences based on your interests, including guided walks, food and wine experiences, wildlife trips, private boat tours, beach drop-offs and full-day adventures.
Transport can also be arranged for guests travelling without a car. Complimentary short transfers to Kaiteriteri and Marahau are available during the stay, subject to availability.
Explore By Day. Return To Quiet Luxury By The Sea
After a day in Abel Tasman or Nelson Tasman, return to ocean views, private beach access and gourmet dining at Lodge by the Beach.
Breathtaking Retreat with World-Class Dining and Unforgettable Views
– Kathleen Simard, USA
(Copy from Booking.com)
Lodge by the Beach was one of the most memorable lodgings we’ve ever stayed in. Designed and built by the architect-owner, Alan with industrial grade materials for safety and various art pieces brought in from overseas, the property is truly amazing. Perched atop a hill near the Split Apple Rock with breathtaking views of the ocean and lush forests, it even offers the private access to a secluded, pristine beach, which made our stay feel like a true escape from the world. The culinary offerings were also exceptional. Each morning started with a delicious breakfast prepared by the guest chef and barista style coffee/tea & drinks. In the evening, our four-course dinner was prepared by the Michelin recognized private chef, Tony Robson- Burrell and each dish was a celebration of local flavors with Asian flare. While the views and the building are spectacular, what truly sets this lodging apart is the soul of the place. The hosts, Alan & Luba and the chef, Tony are some of the kindest, most hospitable people we’ve met. They treated us like family, anticipating every need (such as remembering our favorite morning coffee and teas) and ensuring every tiny detail was perfect. They went out of their ways to accommodate every request with level of sincerity and it can only come from people who truly love what they do. This property is a rare find where the architecture is as breathtaking as the landscape, and the people are as memorable as the views.
– Charles Park, US
(Copy from Expedia.com)
I wandered down the private path and explored sea caves at low tide with a quarter mile of hidden beach totally to myself an hour before sunset.
The private chef served a customized breakfast, lunch and finally dinner at sunset.
After dark the delightful unique calls of the blue penguins settling in for the night made me smile under a spectacular Milky Way.
Usually marketing is hype but this extraordinary place with incredible hosts and staff exceeded every expectation. You will not be disappointed.
– Selwyn Miete, Netherlands
(Copy from Google Maps)
Luba (co-owner) is the quiet engine that makes the entire lodge experience run so seamlessly. Her thoughtfulness is woven into every aspect of a guest’s stay. From the carefully curated welcome amenities to the bathroom sundry basket filled with organic New Zealand skincare products, your own slippers, and even a takeaway journal, each detail reflects genuine care and intention. From the moment we arrived, it was evident that nothing is left to chance. Every comfort is anticipated. Luba isn’t just hosting guests — she is crafting an experience, and she does so with remarkable heart and precision.
The breakfasts and dinners were nothing short of outstanding — beautifully presented, generous, and absolutely delicious. Each meal felt like a fine-dining experience, yet remained warm, relaxed, and personal.
And the views? Simply million-dollar panoramas that take your breath away morning and night.
What made our stay even more special was getting to know Alan and Luba themselves. Their warmth, generosity, and genuine passion for what they’ve created shine through in everything they do. By the end of our stay, we truly felt we hadn’t just experienced exceptional hospitality — we had made new friends. If Singapore Airlines represents the gold standard of luxury in the skies, then this is the equivalent on the ground — the ultimate luxury lodging experience. We cannot recommend it highly enough and cannot wait to return.
– Dawn Abely, United States
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
My husband and I booked three nights at the lodge and didn’t want to leave so we booked another two nights and didn’t want to leave. The lodge and surroundings are stunning. The lodge is close Kaiteriteri and amenities, but when you are there it so peaceful and tranquil you feel a million miles from the crowds and noise. We walked down the private stairs to the secluded beach and swam. From the cove, if you swim out a bit, you can see New Zealand’s famous Split Apple Rock.
As to the amenities in the lodge, it exceeded all our expectations. The owners, Alan and Luba, were so gracious and welcoming. The private chef was amazing. The breakfasts were delicious and the dinners were beautiful. The whole experience was memorable.
I highly recommend the lodge. If you are looking for a luxurious but relaxed place to stay, book this lodge, you will love it.
– Laura Pagey, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
Amazing house with attention to every detail! It makes a huge impression and looks even better in reality than in the photos. The hosts treat you like a friend, not a customer and they are amazing! The level of hotels such as Four Seasons, Six Senses or Raffles!
– Bartek Rychcik, Poland
(Copy from Google Maps)
This lodge is truly luxurious and the gracious hosts put their heart into this place. The attention to detail was exceptional, from the perfectly curated menu with local NZ foods, the plush linens and towels, to the decadent and eco-friendly bath products. It was everything we hoped for and more. We spent our time on beaches, enjoyed the kayaks provided, and watched the stars while relaxing in the jacuzzi. The indoor soaker tub was the cherry on top. This place was absolutely unforgettable.
– Katherine Wincentak, Canada
(Copy from Booking.com)
Our hosts, Luba and Allan, were fantastic. They immediately made us feel at home at the Lodge. Every detail was taken care of. Breakfast was prepared by a different chef daily, and included continental, traditional English or American, and Japanese during our stay. We went exploring a few days, and lunches to go were prepared for us ahead of time. Dinner was fantastic. Tony is a well known chef that prepares a surprising, multi-course gourmet dinner daily. Paired with the exquisite wines from the wine cellar, with excellent choices of local New Zealand wines, the dining experience was perfect.
We were able to meet some of the other guests during our stay, and we had great conversations during meals or cocktails.
If you have a chance to stay at the Lodge By The Beach, you will not be disappointed.
– Johannes Bisschops, United States
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
– Peter Sorensen, Denmark
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
I absolutely loved my stay at Lodge by the Beach and the only downside was I didn’t have longer. Set on the clifftop above Split Apple Rock it was a great location to unwind during the evening and spend the day exploring the region during the day.
I was in the Jacuzzi Suite and absolutely loved it. I had a bath overlooking the ocean and rainforest. After a cold plunge in the ocean it was so nice to defrost in the hot tub.
The host have really thought of everything a guest would need during their stay, offering and extensive and appreciated range of amenities, alongside dinner and breakfast inclusions. The food was an absolute highlight for me, once of the best meals I had in the region. I really appreciated they were able to cater to my dietaries as well.
I think the perfect amount of time here would be 3 nights, enough time to explore the national park, the artisan scene of the region and spend a day on the Lodge’s almost private beach.
– Zoe Fowler, New Zealand
(Copy from Google Maps)
– Vania Farrow, New Zealand
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
The hosts Luba and Alan provide everything you need and things you didn’t realise you needed… including a private chef Tony to prepare your 4 course dinner every evening ( amazing ) . Breakfast is different each day – including a beautiful Japanese breakfast on one morning .
An unforgettable experience – highly recommended .
– Elizabeth Green, England
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
Luba and Alan’s place is a dream. We visited for our honeymoon and found this gem at Abel Tasman, their place is a luxury retreat. We cannot say enough positive comments about this stay, the location, having access to the private beach, the room and home were fully prepared with all the details needed and more. Their chefs are top notch, as if you were in a michelin star restaurant, but with the most beautiful views of the ocean and picturesque mountains on the back. Alan and Luba were the most amazing hosts and they are the nicest and warmest people. We will remember this stay forever.
– Jorge Nadal, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
– Steve Skelton, US
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
– Keith and Claire Moore, Australia
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
Not to mention Tony, the chef who would cook up something special every meal. It was an absolute highlight of our stay. Alan and Luba is a perfect team to look after anyone walking through their door.
Originally, we had booked for two nights but end up staying 4. It was hard to leave.
Thank you for the incredible experience was offered. Recommend it to anyone.
– Ching Evans, China
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
5 STARS all the way!! We were so fortunate to start our vacation at the Lodge. After four nights, we felt like old friends. The Lodge was spacious, comfortable, and truly special, thanks to Luba, Alan, and Tony. Each morning began with a healthy, plentiful breakfast, and after long days hiking Abel Tasman, we returned to great wine and a delicious four-course dinner prepared by Tony. And if you’re fortunate enough to have Alan step in as chef, his meals are just as exceptional.
Lux amenities, thick towels, soft robes, eco products and plush slippers were all provided. Added bonus we ended up using for the slippers the rest of our trip. The strong shower pressure and cloud bed was made for relaxation. In such a remote area with limited options in food and amenities, we were grateful to stay somewhere that offered convenience, warmth, and genuine hospitality, something we’ve still reminiscent as we wrap up our three-week vacation.
We can’t wait to return someday and catch up with them like old friends!
– Tammy Phan, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
We travel a lot and have seen many beautiful places and amazing accommodations around the world, but this stay was truly something special. The house itself is stunning, the surroundings are breathtaking, and what made it unforgettable were the incredible hosts, Luba and Alan. Their warmth and exceptional hospitality created a feeling of home from the very first moment. A special highlight was the private chef, Tony, whose dishes were outstanding and added an extraordinary touch to our stay. This place is genuinely magical – not only because of its beauty, but because of the people who make it so unique. We will remember this experience for a long time and can only give our highest recommendation.
– Jule Kilgus, Germany
(Copy from Booking.com)
The Lodge is located in a privileged spot very near Abel Tasman national park. Surroundings are pure nature and incredible views of the ocean, beaches and islands. The lodge has easy access with some stairs to a (almost private) beach. Kayaks are available which was great. Both the park and Kaiteriteri are reachable by kayak. And this all hosted by splendid hosts Luba and Alan and their team of chefs for dinner and breakfast. Thanks Tony for your delicious meals.
– Willem Anna, Belgium
Our stay at Lodge by the beach was one to remember for all the right reasons. The accomodation was amazing, the service was kind and friendly and the food was outstanding.
The team went above and beyond to organise additional activities and surprises which made the experience even more memorable.
We would highly recommend staying here if you are looking for a luxurious and relaxed getaway where everything is to a high standard.
Thanks again for looking after us while we were there.
– Jon Sanders, New Zealand
(Copy from Google Maps)
One of the best beach boutiques we have ever stayed at. Location, food, service, hospitality, all top notch. So many amenities come with your stay, the chef is incredible, Luba and Alan are meant to do this, we’ll be back!
– Josh Wilson, United States
(Copy from Google Maps)
Hands down, one of the most spectacular places we stayed. We had our own private Chef, went above and beyond to make our whole experience exceptional! The food creations are mind blowing and healthy as well. Very comfortable bed and amazing views from every corner. We ended up extending by another night.
– Tina Schirr, New Zealand
(Copy from Google Maps)
What a perfect place to stay when visiting Abel Tasman! You feel the warmth of the home right away thanks to the wonderful owners Luba and Alan. Extremely friendly people, who care, and want all their guests to really have a magical stay.
I stayed in the Cozy Suite, the smallest of the rooms, and it was huge. Just perfect for a solo traveler or even a couple. Absolutely breathtakingly beautiful views from the bedroom but the views are even more spectacular from the kitchen area.
This is the first time I’ve ever stayed at a place that hires private chefs to prepare all the meals for the day. Breakfast was great and tasty, but dinner is truly where the magic happens. Tony, a Michelin recognized chef from England, is truly a spectacular chef. I devoured everything he prepared, nothing was left on the plates.
Huge thanks to Luba, Alan, and Tony, for making my time in Nelson/Abel Tasman something to remember.
– Thomas Meyer, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
A Perfect Getaway at a Stunning Lodge
My wife and I had the most incredible stay at this beautiful lodge in Abel Tasman, New Zealand. From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the breathtaking views and the serene atmosphere. One of the highlights was having our own private beach—waking up to the sound of the waves and enjoying the peaceful surroundings was simply magical.
The chef made our experience even more special. He was warm, welcoming, and an exceptional chef! Every breakfast and dinner he prepared was absolutely delicious, made with fresh ingredients and incredible attention to detail. Dining while overlooking the stunning scenery made each meal even more memorable.
If you’re looking for a relaxing and luxurious escape in nature, this lodge is the perfect choice. We can’t wait to come back!
– Karan Sharma, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
Seriously Excellent plus plus!
Having travelled a lot around the world and in New Zealand this is one of the most wonderful places I have stayed. Location in secluded spot at end of a peninsula, breath taking views and accommodation with amazing service.
– David Marshall, England
(Copy from Expedia Group)
Beautiful Stay!
What a luxurious hidden gem. It was our favorite place that we stayed in all of South Island. The views were unmatched and the proximity to the park was extremely convenient. Last but not least, our chef was great. Would recommend to any friends looking for a slice of paradise.
– Robert Schipper, USA
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
The internal facilities are super high-end, the service staff are super nice, and they always wait for my arrival no matter what time it is. Breakfast and dinner are provided, and the external scenery is pleasant. I will definitely come again in the future!
– Yu, China
(Copy from Booking.com)
– Mara J, New Zealand
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
The personal touch and attention of our hosts, their first class service, hospitality and organisation throughout our stay were the basics that made us feel welcome and very comfortable. This they managed in a very professional, but uncomplicated way.
The location is perfect with a lodge offering more than you need. Very clean and super beds. The interior of the lodge including the design of our suite and the surrounding terraces were very beautiful and everything well kept.
The lodge has direct access to a lonely beautiful beach via small path and stone stairs. A home as well for little blue Pinguins.
The idea of having different private international cooks preparing breakfast and different dinners for you made the stay very special. We are grateful that this experience was part of our tour. Really an astonishing quite hide-away still close to Kaiteriteri and the Tasman National Park.
– Annett Jacobsen, Germany
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
But Alan and Luba were there to welcome us and reassure us that we were in the right place. We were frankly blown away by how nice it was. Alan spent 4 years building it as a private residence to a very high spec – floor to ceiling windows, multiple outdoor seating areas, marble floors, etc. Thankfully, he decided to open it up to visitors and he and Luba are putting their heart and soul into turning it into a beautiful destination.
The best feature is the beach it overlooks. While technically there are no private beaches in NZ, this is as close as it gets. Walk down the steps and you have a beautiful sand beach virtually to yourselves. Note, it’s about 3-4 stories worth of steps so not for those that are mobility impaired. But I went up and down it multiple times every day as I couldn’t get enough of the beach.
Fantastic food from a private chef, close proximity to Abel Tasman National Park (approx 15 min drive), swimming, kayaks and stand up paddle for free, lying down at night and see the milky way emerge as the light fades, etc. This was the only place we didn’t have to book private tours to take you to the famous walks or for a kayak guide. It was all easily accessible and astoundingly beautiful.
This place has only recently been opened to tourists. It won’t be long before the Lodge is discovered and becomes incredibly hard to book. I wish we had booked it for more than the 2 nights we stayed there.
– Henry Adams, United States
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
Unbelievable hospitality and views at the Lodge by the Beach! We stayed 2 nights in the jacuzzi suite, and were totally happy and comfortable every minute of our stay. Luba and Alan are amazing hosts, making sure our stay was the highlight of our visit to New Zealand – and the food from chef Tony was absolutely the best meals we had anywhere! Great views, easy access to a stunning beach, and fantastic accomodations – can’t recommend highly enough!
– Chris Anton, USA
(Copy from Google Maps)
Fabulous retreat in amazing location were privileged to stay 3 nights. The lodge is absolutely beautiful and has a wonderful view of the native bush and golden sand beach. Luba & Alan are great hosts and chef Tony makes dinner a real experience. Everything exudes style & luxury. We would love to come back to this special place.
– Pam Ensor, New Zealand
(Copy from Tripadvisor)
This accomodation was absolutely the very best within 4 weeks of travel. The location, the sourrounding with private beach and splendid internal was exorbitant. We did not expect such a luxural stay!! ..and all above the excellent hosting with breakfast and dinner, could easily meet the standard of 3 star Michelin restaurants. Thank you for this excellent accomodation experience!
– Karl & Elke, England
(Copy from Expedia Group)
Spoiled for life!!!!
– Ingeborg Zillikens, Netherlands
(Copy from Booking.com)
This property is outstanding. Pure luxury. The private chef is an excellent producing fantastic meals. If you are in the area you must stay here.
You will not regret it. Amazing, amazing, amazing!
– Nigel Morgan, England
(Copy from Booking.com)
Perfection. Far beyond my already high expectations
This is one of the most wonderful places I’ve ever stayed in all my years of travelling. The room, the food, the location and the hospitality were just pitch-perfect in every way. It far exceeded my already high expectations.
– Vivian Schiller, USA
(Copy from Booking.com)
– Chris, United States
(Copy from Google Maps)
