Hotels in The Catlins, New Zealand

The Catlins is a wild coastal region on New Zealand's South Island, famous for its rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife like fur seals and yellow-eyed penguins. The climate is mild year-round-summers (December to February) average 60°F (15°C), perfect for hiking to the 19th-century Nugget Point lighthouse or exploring Cathedral Caves during low tide, while winters (June to August) hover around 45°F (7°C), ideal for spotting dolphins in sheltered bays without the crowds. You can visit the McLean Falls in any season, but spring (September to November) brings blooming rata trees and fewer tourists, making it a budget-friendly time for beachcombing at Tautuku Bay.