Planning a stay at Surat Bay Lodge, Motel and Backpackers? Here are answers to some of the most common questions about our accommodation, location and exploring The Catlins.
Surat Bay Lodge, Motel and Backpackers is located at Surat Bay, near Owaka in The Catlins, on the lower South Island of New Zealand. The lodge is right beside the coast with direct access to Surat Bay beach and the Catlins Estuary.
Yes. The Lodge is located right beside Surat Bay, with direct access to the beach. Guests can step outside and explore the coastline, estuary and surrounding area.
Yes. New Zealand sea lions regularly use Surat Bay and nearby Cannibal Bay. You may encounter them resting on the beach or moving along the coastline during your stay. As they are wild animals, sightings can’t be guaranteed.
Surat Bay is only a short drive from Owaka, the main township in The Catlins. Owaka has cafés, food options, shops, fuel and the Owaka Museum and Catlins Information Centre.
Yes. Surat Bay Lodge is well positioned for exploring The Catlins, with easy access to coastal scenery, waterfalls, walking tracks, wildlife and attractions including Nugget Point, Pūrākaunui Falls, Jack’s Bay and Jack’s Blowhole.
Surat Bay Lodge offers a range of accommodation options for travellers exploring The Catlins, including private rooms, family accommodation, self-contained accommodation and shared options.
Visit our Accommodation page for current room options, facilities, availability and prices.
Yes. Family accommodation options are available, and Surat Bay is a great location for families wanting to explore the beach and The Catlins. Children should always be supervised around the coastline and wildlife.
Yes. Kitchen facilities are available for guests. Check your chosen accommodation type when booking for details of the facilities included with your stay.
Yes, Wi-Fi is available for guests.
Yes, guest parking is available.
Check-in is from 3:00pm. Please check your booking confirmation for current check-out information and any arrival instructions.
Having your own vehicle is the easiest way to explore The Catlins, as attractions are spread throughout the area and public transport is limited.
Surat Bay is located south of Dunedin in The Catlins. Allow approximately 1 hr 30 mins by car, depending on your route, traffic and stops along the way.
Allow approximately 1 hr 45 mins to travel between Invercargill and Surat Bay Lodge, Motel and Backpackers by car, depending on your route and stops.
There’s plenty to explore, including walking Surat Bay and Cannibal Bay, wildlife watching, visiting Nugget Point Lighthouse, Pūrākaunui Falls, Jack’s Blowhole, McLean Falls, Cathedral Caves and exploring nearby Owaka.
See our Things to Do in The Catlins page for more ideas.
Yes. Surat Bay and Cannibal Bay can be explored on foot via the beach and coastal area. Conditions can change, so check local information before setting out and allow plenty of time.
The Catlins can be visited throughout the year, with every season offering a different experience. Summer brings longer daylight hours, while the cooler months can be quieter and are ideal for enjoying the dramatic coastline. The weather can change quickly at any time of year, so come prepared for a range of conditions.
The low level of artificial light around Surat Bay makes it a great place for stargazing. When conditions are right, it may also be possible to see the Aurora Australis, or Southern Lights. Aurora sightings are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed.
We recommend allowing at least two to three nights to experience The Catlins without rushing. Staying longer gives you time to explore the waterfalls, wildlife, beaches and walking tracks and allows some flexibility around weather and attraction opening conditions.
No. Cathedral Caves is a seasonal and tide-dependent attraction. Opening times depend on tides, sea conditions and other factors, so always check the official Cathedral Caves information before travelling.
New Zealand sea lions are wild animals and need plenty of space. Keep at least 20 metres away, do not get between a sea lion and the sea, and never approach or attempt to touch or feed wildlife. Follow current Department of Conservation guidance whenever you encounter wildlife.
For more ideas, itineraries, attractions and places to visit throughout The Catlins, visit CluthaNZ, the official destination website for the Clutha District.