Vacation rentals in Best Island

Gum Tree Studio - The perfect country retreat!

With amazing views and the Taste Tasman cycle trail at the end of the road this is the perfect retreat to get away from it all. We're lucky to be surrounded by farmland, countryside, mountains, sea, National Parks, fresh air and birdsong. Just a short 10 minute drive from the popular village of Mapua and 10 minutes from Motueka this artistic, modern, roomy and stylish studio is a perfect getaway. The Studio is located at the rear of our home property, down a private drive, with ample parking.

Rest in Wakatu

Private self-contained guest suite with its own entrance in a quiet neighbourhood near Tahunanui Beach and Nelson Airport. Comfortable bedroom, tidy bathroom with shower over bath, and practical kitchenette with cooking facilities. Private patio and BBQ, Wi-Fi and off-street parking included. Five minutes’ drive to the beach and cafés, 10 minutes to Nelson city, and the Great Taste Trail passes nearby. Suite is adjacent to our family home, so normal daytime household sounds may be heard.

The Lookout

Uniquely situated on a rural property that sits above Nelson and just a short drive from both Nelson Airport and Nelson City centre. Located up a winding, private, gravel driveway approx 1km from the road **MAX 20km speed limit on this winding, gravel driveway!. ‘The Lookout' is separate from our home (located at the far end of our double garage) self-contained and completely private. Our cozy unit features a private deck, queen bed, ensuite and kitchenette. Enjoy the beautiful sunsets.

Sanctuary Cottage- peaceful retreat

A charming two-storied cottage set on its own, with tranquil pond views and the sounds of countryside calm. Perfect for guests seeking quiet, space, and a touch of rural magic. Five minutes from Richmond. You have your own driveway, and private front lawn. The cottage is two storied with a bedroom upstairs- King bed. Lounge/dinning/kitchen/bathroom are downstairs. Kitchen consists of fridge, microwave, electric fry pan, toaster, jug,bench oven. Laundry- with washing machine. Pets on request

Self Contained Cottage attached to Historic Home

Rest up and relax in our newly refurbished cottage. Easy living with the open plan, leading to a spacious bedroom with ensuite. The original homestead dates pre 1880 and has since been uniquely remodeled by the late John Gosney - a local icon and world famous in Nelson for his creative landscaping. This is the perfect retreat for any avid shopper or outdoor enthusiast. Richmond village just 5 min walk, Sylvan Mountain Bike park 5 min bike, Great Tast trail 5 min walk, Aquatic Centre 2 min.

Karaka Studio on Manuka Island Nelson/Tasman

Karaka studio is on the very edge of the Waimea Inlet with water twenty metres from your front door. Lie in bed and watch the tide come in. We are a private estuary island (Manuka Island) but we have drive on access at all times, 25 minutes to Nelson and Motueka. Rabbit Island beach(4km) and Taste Nelson Cycle Trail is a km from our gate. We are central to vineyards, cafes, 3/4 hour to Abel Tasman National park. We have amazing sea, rural , and mountain views. Total privacy assured.

Ruby Bay Beach Sleepout - 30 mins from Abel Tasman

This is our sleepout located next to our family home. It is artistic and peaceful. It is nestled within a 1 ha property with established fruit trees and many things for families to do and play. The sleepout has a separate wash space/kitchenette and bathroom, about 7 metres away from the sleepout. The beach is right opposite the house, and Mapua is a 2-minute drive. It's an ideal space to land in before and/or after a hike in the Abel Tasman, which is only 30 minutes away from us.

Magical serene cottage with spectacular views

The Folly is a stunning property uniquely designed and built with a solid hand-crafted macrocarpa frame. These beautiful timbers create a dramatic, inspiring space to relax in with extensive views across open countryside to Tasman Bay and D'Urville Island beyond. The Folly is lavishly equipped for an indulgent stay, a truly characterful space. Make yourself at home and while away the days unwinding or get out and explore The Abel Tasman, Mapua or Nelson, all within easy reach.

The House in Mapua slow down breathe relax

The old, sharing with the new, an old weathered leather chair alongside beautiful contemporary lamps. The woodfire, there is something about a fire that warms your body and your soul, a heat pump, too. Beautiful native timber floors. Quality linen, 100% organic cotton sheets. The House: on a peninsular, close to the wharf, this haven is close to restaurants, cafes, galleries, fish and chips too. Central to Abel Tasman National Park cycle trails, wineries, art galleries.

Applegirth - Peaceful Retreat near Mapua

A relaxing space to retreat to after a day of exploring, Applegirth offers an open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area; a separate bedroom with Single bed; a mezzanine level with Queen sized bed and a bathroom with shower over bath, and washer. A Sofa Bed in the lounge can also be utilised upon request. In the lounge is a music station , and selection of games. Outside on the verandah is a covered BBQ and seating area where you can relax and listen to the birdsong.

Modern Townhouse in Richmond

Sunny, modern townhouse in great location! Comfortably sleeps 6 with 2x queen bedrooms and a twin room. Large living area and private courtyard on a quiet street. Close to The Great Taste Trail path, Rabbit Island, Tahunanui Beach, Aquatic Centre, shopping, Racecourse. Walking distance to bars, cafes & the new up-market Silky Otter Movie theatre right across from you. Fab new Sprig & Fern bar, with small playground, also 5 min walk. You'll love it!

Coastal Calm | Luxe Stay with Views, Bath & Fire.

Pōhutukawa Farm is a luxe, light-filled apartment with breathtaking views over the Waimea Inlet. Big windows, high ceilings and space to unwind, dance, or soak in the outdoor bath. Set on peaceful farmland with friendly animals, an outdoor fire, and a calm, minimal interior made for slow mornings and golden hour magic. Private, stylish and relaxed—ideal for a romantic escape or a joyful weekend with good tunes, good wine and wide open skies. Pure bliss.