Fiordland National Park Milford Sound Hotels

Top reasons to visit Milford Sound

• Breathtaking Scenery: Experience stunning peaks, tranquil lakes, and majestic mountains within Fiordland National Park.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spot playful dolphins and diverse wildlife while kayaking or on scenic cruises.
• Milford Track: Hike the renowned Milford Track, one of New Zealand's premier walking experiences.
• Scenic Cruises: Enjoy unforgettable views of the sound's natural beauty from the water.
• Tranquil Atmosphere: Embrace the serene surroundings, perfect for nature lovers and romantic getaways.

Where to stay near Milford Sound

Milford Sound offers an unforgettable travel experience with its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the breathtaking locations surrounding the Milford Sound Terminal, where excursions abound. The heart of Milford Sound invites travellers to immerse themselves in its tranquil surroundings, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Whether embarking on a scenic cruise or simply soaking in the majestic views, each moment spent here is a true delight.

• Milford Sound: Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is renowned for its dramatic fjords, towering peaks, and cascading waterfalls. Located approximately 14km from its namesake, the suburb offers a unique travel experience with a focus on outdoor activities and romantic scenery. The peak tourist season from January to March sees visitors flocking to enjoy activities such as scenic cruises, kayaking, and the iconic cable car gondola. Nearby landmarks like the pristine lake and majestic mountains create a picturesque backdrop, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
• Jamestown: Situated around 34km from Milford Sound, Jamestown is a charming suburb that offers a serene escape into nature's wonders. Travellers are drawn to this area for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, with opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding mountains and lakes. The local attractions, including beautiful water features, provide the perfect setting for those seeking relaxation and adventure. Whether you're trekking through the lush landscapes or enjoying a quiet moment by the lake, Jamestown is a delightful stop on your journey through New Zealand's Southland.

Things to do in Milford Sound

Shopping

Milford Sound itself offers limited shopping opportunities, with a few local shops featuring souvenirs and gifts. If you're up for a drive, Te Anau, about 2 hours away, has more options, including the Te Anau Shopping Centre, where you can find a variety of local crafts and products.

Recreation

Milford Sound offers tranquil wellness retreats surrounded by stunning fjord landscapes. Engage in rejuvenating spa treatments that utilise local natural ingredients, or partake in guided yoga sessions with breathtaking views. Explore the pristine environment through kayaking or serene nature walks, allowing for a true connection with nature’s beauty.

Adventure

In Milford Sound, embark on a thrilling kayaking adventure, exploring the stunning fjords and waterfalls up close. Alternatively, take a scenic cruise to witness breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. For the more adventurous, hiking the nearby trails offers spectacular views of the towering cliffs and lush rainforests.

Nightlife

Milford Sound’s nightlife is tranquil yet captivating. Enjoy a drink at the cosy Milford Sound Lodge bar, where you can unwind with stunning views. Alternatively, join a stargazing tour to marvel at the clear night sky, revealing the wonders of the Southern Hemisphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Milford Sound

To save money on your trip to Milford Sound, consider utilising public transport options, which are often more affordable than car rentals. Look for free activities, such as the stunning walking tracks and viewpoints within Fiordland National Park, which offer breathtaking scenery without any cost. Additionally, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons, typically spring and autumn, to avoid peak tourist prices. For accommodation and travel, use Expedia to compare prices and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for greater savings.

• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservation in Milford Sound with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Milford Sound

Milford Sound, nestled within Fiordland National Park, offers breathtaking scenery with its stunning peaks, tranquil lakes, and majestic mountains. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a romantic getaway, visitors can embark on scenic cruises to fully appreciate the area's natural beauty. Exploring the sound's diverse landscapes and engaging in activities such as kayaking or hiking will ensure an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

• Mitre Peak: Rising majestically 1,692 metres above the fjord, Mitre Peak offers breathtaking views and a striking silhouette. The hike to its base reveals stunning scenery, characterised by steep cliffs and lush green valleys, making it a favourite for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Bowen Falls: This dramatic waterfall cascades 162 metres down into the fjord and is renowned for its romantic allure. The surrounding area provides adventurous trails that lead to vantage points, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty up close, especially during the spring melt.
• Lake Marian: Nestled in a serene valley, Lake Marian is a hidden gem offering stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. Its tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty make it an idyllic spot for picnics or a romantic stroll along the lakeside.

Best time to go to Milford Sound

The best time to visit Milford Sound can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Milford Sound falls in January and February. February has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature around Milford Sound falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy
January	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High
February	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High
March	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average
April	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average
May	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low
June	35.6°F (2.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low
July	34.2°F (1.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average
August	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low
September	37.4°F (3.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average
October	40.1°F (4.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average
November	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average
December	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Milford Sound

To visit Milford Sound, you can fly into Queenstown Airport (ZQN), located 89km away. Notable hotels nearby include the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, a 5-star hotel just 1km from the airport, as well as The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments, 5km away, and QT Queenstown, 6km from ZQN. Alternatively, you can fly into Wānaka Airport (WKA), situated 116km from Milford Sound. Nearby accommodations include Lakeshore Springs Apartments, 10km from WKA, and Edgewater, a 4.5-star hotel 11km away, along with Wanaka Springs Lodge, also 10km from the airport. Transport services are available from these hotels to both airports.