Just 2 minutes' walk from Kaikoura town center, Dolphin Lodge features views of the coastline and the mountain ranges. Guests enjoy free on-site parking. Guests can choose to stay in a dormitory room or in the comfort of a private room. Each room includes free linen, heating and daily cleaning. Most rooms have shared bathroom facilities. There are deck chairs in the garden for you to unwind in. Coin-operated laundry facilities are available. The property has a fully equipped shared kitchen with a stove, an oven and a microwave. Barbecue facilities can be found on site. Kaikoura Dolphin Lodge is 4 minutes' drive from Kaikoura Train Station. The Whale Watch and Seal Swim booking offices are each 10 minutes' walk away.

Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.2 for a two-person trip.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

Property highlights

Located in the top-rated area in Kaikoura, this property has an excellent location score of 9.3!

Free Private Parking Available On Site


Availability

Select dates to see this property's availability and prices

Room Type
Number of guests
 
2 twin beds
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Guest reviews

Categories:

Staff
9.2
Facilities
8.1
Cleanliness
8.4
Comfort
8.4
Value for money
8.7
Location
9.3
Free Wifi
8.4
Select topics to read reviews:

Guests who stayed here loved

  • Ceitte
    United States of America United States of America
    It’s someone’s beautiful house turned into a hostel so it’s quite lovely. The staff were SO nice it was almost like staying at a friends house. I was only there for a night but really enjoyed my stay. Make sure you get out and do some stargazing...
  • Adeline
    United States of America United States of America
    Kitchen is extremely well stocked (especially with spices, which is rare for a hostel). The common space is cozy especially with the wood stove. Great views of the water and mountains!
  • Pauline
    France France
    Ths stadf is friendly, the view on the mountains and the sea is amazing. It's clean.
  • Tonicarty
    New Zealand New Zealand
    The staff was friendly, property was easily accessible, there were nice views and decent privacy from others despite being in a backpackers, and there is a lovely, friendly black cat that popped by for a visit.
  • Anna
    United Kingdom United Kingdom
    Staff lovely and helpful. Great location. Spacious rooms and overall general vibes were great.
  • Samuel
    Australia Australia
    Location is central and it is near to town centre.
  • Ach
    France France
    The fire place, the view on the terrace, the serenity
  • Katherine
    New Zealand New Zealand
    The location in Kaikoura is fantastic, the views are incredible and the private room with bathroom right next door was very much appreciated.
  • Kendrick
    United States of America United States of America
    Nice cozy home feel and amazing view from the lounge and deck.
  • Douglas
    United States of America United States of America
    The location was great, but it was somewhat hard to find. This is a full on hostel that happens to have a couple of private double rooms. The location in the morning was spectacular! Near the beach and views of the Kaikoura Mountains with snow...

Property questions and answers
Browse questions from guests for anything extra you want to know about the property
The property usually replies within a few days

  • Are sheets and towels included?

    The dorm rooms supply sheets, pillow and duvet. Private rooms supply as dorm and towels.
    Answered on 26 October 2019
  • Hi! Our bus arrives in Kaikoura at 10.30am. As your check in isn't until 3pm, would it be possible to leave our luggage at the lodge for the day so th..

    Kia Ora You are welcome to drop off bags and return at 3pm.
    Answered on 6 September 2023
  • Private bathroom?

    The twin room shares the main bathroom with guests. The double ensuite rooms have their own bathrooms. Thanks Dolphin Lodge
    Answered on 16 January 2020
  • Hi! Do you offer late check in / early check out? Thanks

    Kia ora Yes. Keys can be found at reception and if you leave prior to 9am it is a matter of leaving keys at reception on your way out.
    Answered on 6 September 2023
  • Is it quiet at night?

    Yes it is quiet. We situated in a quiet street and we are small.
    Answered on 26 October 2019
  • Hi there can I ask to live in a female dorm?

    Hi there We will accommodate as best as we can as we don't have gender assigned room. Thanks and have a good day.
    Answered on 15 October 2021
  • Still looking?

Area info

Amenities of Dolphin Lodge
Great facilities! Review score, 8.1

Most popular amenities
  • Free parking
  • Free Wifi
  • Non-smoking rooms
Bathroom
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Toilet
  • Hairdryer
  • Shower
Bedroom
  • Linens
Outdoors
  • Picnic area
  • Outdoor furniture
  • BBQ facilities
  • Terrace
  • Garden
Kitchen
  • Shared kitchen
Activities
  • Hiking
    Off-site
Internet
Wifi is available in public areas and is free of charge.
Parking
Free private parking is available on site (reservation is not possible).
  • Street parking
Services
  • Baggage storage
  • Laundry
    Additional charge
Entertainment & Family Services
  • Board games/Puzzles
Safety & security
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Smoke alarms
  • Security alarm
  • Safe
    Additional charge
General
  • Designated smoking area
  • Smoke-free property
  • Heating
  • Carpeted
  • Non-smoking rooms
Accessibility
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
Spa
  • Full-body massage
  • Hand massage
  • Head massage
  • Couples' massage
  • Foot massage
  • Neck massage
  • Back massage
  • Massage
Languages Spoken
  • English

House rules
Dolphin Lodge takes special requests – add in the next step!

Check-in
From 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Check-out
From 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Cancellation/ prepayment
Cancelation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Enter your stay dates and check the conditions of your selected option.
Children & Beds

Child policies

Children of all ages are welcome.

Children 2 and above will be charged as adults at this property.

To see correct prices and occupancy info, add the number and ages of children in your group to your search.

Crib and extra bed policies

Cribs and extra beds aren't available at this property.

Age restriction
The minimum age for check-in is 18
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Accepted payment methods
VisaMastercardCash

The fine print
Must-know information for guests at this property

In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.

Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), this property is taking steps to protect the safety of guests and staff. Certain services and amenities may be reduced or unavailable as a result.

Spa and gym facilities at this property are unavailable due to the coronavirus (COVID-19).

FAQs about Dolphin Lodge

  • Dolphin Lodge offers the following activities/services (charges may apply):

    • Massage
    • Hiking
    • Head massage
    • Foot massage
    • Full-body massage
    • Back massage
    • Hand massage
    • Couples' massage
    • Neck massage
  • The prices at Dolphin Lodge may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates, hotel's policy etc.). To see prices, enter your dates.

  • Dolphin Lodge is 1,500 feet from the center of Kaikoura. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

  • Check-in at Dolphin Lodge is from 3:00 PM, and check-out is until 10:00 AM.

  • The nearest beach is 650 feet from Dolphin Lodge. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.