Tom’s House via Airbnb
Located in New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown is where sublime beauty intersects with cosmopolitan charm. Known as an adventurer’s paradise, this lakeside gem offers world-class slopes, mountainous hikes and endless water sports. But for those less than athletically inclined, it also offers lakeside luxury like no other.
Marvel at the shape of the lightning bolt-shaped Lake Wakatipu or the jagged, snow-capped silhouette of The Remarkables from an outdoor spa or sun-soaked balcony, courtesy of Queenstown’s most luxurious stays.
From modern homes with panoramic views to secluded retreats among the trees, these are the best stays in Queenstown you need to book for your next New Zealand getaway.
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GT‘s top picks for Queenstown accommodation in 2025
- Best for families and groups: Tikoke Heights | Vistas Paradise
- Best for couples: Crystal Waters
- Best for access to ski fields: Lake Wakatipu Escape
- Best for adventurers: Arthur’s Point Retreat
Best Queenstown accommodation
Tikoke Heights
Sleeps: six
In this modern home, no guest has to fight for the room with a view. Boasting 360 views of the lake and ranges, Tikoke Heights embodies lakeside luxury. Sleeping up to six guests, it’s ideal for group stays, especially for those looking for a bit of tranquillity.
With an average 4.95-star rating on 137 reviews, this home is in the top 10% of listings. “Being a hotelier, I can admittedly be a little particular but this place was absolutely faultless,” mused one guest. “The location is exceptional, and the house itself is finished to an incredibly high standard with state-of-the-art facilities and beautifully curated furnishings.”
Key features:
- Three bedrooms, four beds
- Views over Lake Wakatipu and Remarkables mountain range
- Five-minute drive to town centre
Location: Queenstown Hill
Crystal Waters (suite 2)
Sleeps: four
High on the hillside, Crystal Waters offers elevated rustic interiors with unmatched views. Featuring a wood burner, fully equipped kitchen, floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the lake and mountains, and a cedar hot tub, it’s the dreamiest Queenstown Airbnb for a romantic getaway.
“Perfect location and had the best view by far. The hot tub was also a great touch as well,” said one five-star review of the stay, which have an average 4.99-star rating.
Key features:
- Two bedrooms, two beds
- Four identical suites to choose from: book suite 1, suite 3 or suite 4 here
- Uninterrupted views of the lake and mountain
- Cedar spa pool
- Cot available for use
- 35-minute scenic walk along lakefront trail to downtown Queenstown
- 20-minute drive from Queenstown Airport
Location: Queenstown
Shinglehouse
Sleeps: six
Oak flooring with underfloor heating, Persian rugs, silk and linen bedding, alpaca throws and New Zealand wool carpets texture the architectural venture that is Shinglehouse. Designed as two dwellings connected by a short passage, the house oozes with casual luxury and offers a seamless flow between indoors and outdoors. Just 20 minutes from Queenstown and at the foot of The Remarkables, it’s prime position for exploring the raw terrain of farmland and the surrounding walking trails.
“The space was luxurious, with great amenities and utilities that made our stay comfortable. The breathtaking views from the property were an added bonus, especially as we relaxed after a day out,” said one five-star review.
Key Features:
- Three bedrooms, three beds
- Designer kitchen
- Spa pool
- Seven minutes from airport
- Available from April 2026
Location: Jacks Point
Tom’s House
Sleeps: five
Lap up the Otago sun all day long from Tom’s House, an award-winning, architecturally designed home positioned on an elevated north-facing location in Jacks Point. Curl up in the loft with a journal and pen, unwind in the generously-sized outdoor spa or just get lost in the panoramic mountain vistas that lie before you. Just a seven-minute drive to the airport, it’s the ideal spot for starting or ending a trip. Availability till end of March.
“Every aspect of the home was designed for comfort, luxury and to engage the experience of staying just beneath the Remarkables. A never to be forgotten holiday location,” said one five-star review.
Key features:
- Three bedrooms, three beds
- Award-winning architecture
- Amenities for kids
- Hot tub
Location: Jacks Point
Lake Wakatipu Escape
Sleeps: six
This clean, modern-minimalist abode is revered for its majestic mountain views, offering a unique alpine experience. Just a 20-minute walk from town, and even closer to ski fields, this stay features all the modern amenities you’d wish to return to after a busy day exploring the natural wonders of Queenstown. Take respite in the master suite, outdoor patio or hot tub, each with their own breathtaking scenery.
A guest favourite on Airbnb, this stay has an overall rating of 4.93 on 255 reviews. “A fantastic airy light filled property with breathtaking views of the lake. The house was warm when we arrived which was great! Everything was pristine and exactly as advertised,” mused one guest, who rated their stay five stars.
Key Features:
- Three bedrooms, three beds
- Complimentary use of bikes
- Hot tub with lake and mountain views
- Minutes to world-class ski fields
- 20-minute walk to town
Location: Queenstown
Arthur’s Point retreat
Sleeps: six
Just steps from world-famous Onsen hot pools, this contemporary sanctuary is a year-round treat. Located in Arthur’s Point, this stay acts as the perfect base for jet-setting activities such as jet boating, hiking along scenic trains, and riding ski slopes. Open-plan living, a private balcony and luxury spa aid in the much-needed respite after an adventurous day out.
“The place was amazing with breathtaking view, felt so cosy and at home, and with sufficient amenities/restaurants around the corner and a short drive to the town area which was very convenient!” said one five-star review.
Key features:
- Three bedroom, three beds
- Private hot tub
- Private balcony with views of the mountain and river
- Steps from Onsen hot pools
- 10-minutes from Queenstown
Location: Arthur’s Point
Rusty Retreat
Sleeps: six
Lounge in luxury among your own private pool, space and sauna while enjoying sweeping views of the Remarkables mountain range. Located in Fernhill, one of the original neighbourhoods of Queenstown, you have near-backyard access to a variety of scenic trails and walks from the end of the street while only a five-minute drive from Queenstown town centre.
One five-star review described the stay as “A hidden gem. It would have to be one of the best views in Queenstown, absolutely incredible. The accommodation is first class, lovely comfortable lounge, dining, all round beautiful place to stay, where you will want for nothing, including a hot tub and sauna.”
Key features:
- Two bedrooms, three beds
- Saltwater spa accommodates five people
- Sauna
- Complimentary locally brewed craft beer, or wine on arrivaL
- Underfloor heating
- Family amenities available such as a cot and highchair
- Five-minute drive to Queenstown CBD
Location: Fernhill
Vistas Paradise
Sleeps: seven
Perfect was families who like to lounge in their own spaces, this large, multi-story home is the perfect place to unwind and escape the bustle. Offering breathtaking, panoramic vistas over sparkling Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountain ranges, you’re just minutes from Queenstown and Frankton. It also features spacious open-plan living, dual lounges with fireplaces, and a private spa.
“Our stay at this Queenstown Airbnb was absolutely magical! The property is tucked away in a serene, quiet spot, offering a peaceful retreat while still being just a short drive from the town centre,” said one five-star review. “The home itself was just as wonderful. It’s spacious and tastefully designed, with large windows that frame the stunning views from almost every room.”
Key features:
- Three bedroom, four beds
- views of Lake Whakatipu and Remarkables Mountain Range
- Gas fireplace
- Spa
Location: Queenstown Hill
