Hotels in St. Mary's Bay

St. Mary's Bay: Where Tranquil Waters Embrace Vibrant Horizons

St. Mary’s Bay, nestled in Auckland's vibrant waterfront, offers a perfect blend of urban charm and natural beauty. This picturesque enclave boasts stunning views of the Waitemata Harbour and is just a stone's throw from the lively Takapuna Beach. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along Carlisle Bay, savoring the serene atmosphere and vibrant local culture. With its upscale dining options and close proximity to Auckland's bustling city center, St. Mary’s Bay is an ideal destination for those seeking a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat. Experience the allure of this hidden gem in New Zealand! For the best hotel rates in St. Mary's Bay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in St. Mary's Bay

St. Mary's Bay in Auckland offers fantastic attractions like the Sky Tower and Princes Wharf. The Sky Tower is ideal for first-time visitors, providing stunning panoramic views and dining options. Princes Wharf, with its vibrant waterfront atmosphere, is great for relaxation and entertainment. Accommodation around these areas ranges from luxurious hotels to quaint boutique stays, ensuring options for every traveler’s preference. Both locations have easy access to various amenities and attractions, making them perfect for your stay in Auckland. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in St. Mary's Bay:

1. Near Sky TowerOpens in a new window: Staying near Sky Tower puts you in the vibrant heart of Auckland, offering a mix of stunning views and exciting attractions. This area is perfect for those looking for a blend of business and family-oriented experiences, with a touch of casino entertainment. For a comfortable stay, consider SkyCity HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that caters to family and business travelers, featuring amenities like a business center and childcare services. Another option is The Grand by SkyCityOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel that offers a casino, along with premium business amenities and childcare options. If you're in the mood for a refined experience, Rydges AucklandOpens in a new window, also a 4.5-star property, provides a sophisticated atmosphere with multiple meeting rooms and a conference center, making it ideal for business trips or luxury getaways.

Things to do in St. Mary's Bay for first time

Three days in St. Mary's Bay offers a delightful mix of shopping, scenic walks, and exhilarating ferry rides. Explore the stunning coastline through hiking and boating, and dive into the vibrant local culture. This charming destination is perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure by the water. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to St. Mary's Bay:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at the iconic Sky Tower, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Auckland from the observation deck. After soaking in the panoramic scenery, take a short walk to the University of Auckland Library, a beautiful space perfect for some quiet time or to admire the architecture. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through Emily Place Reserve, a serene park where you can relax amidst greenery and perhaps enjoy a picnic while watching the sunset over the bay.
• Day 2: Your day begins at Princes Wharf, where you can admire the waterfront views and explore the nearby shops and eateries. Next, get your adrenaline pumping at Fly A Jet - Flight Simulator, an exhilarating experience that simulates the thrill of flying a jet. Wrap up your day by immersing yourself in the creativity of Weta Workshop Unleashed, where you can delve into the magic of film-making and see behind-the-scenes effects from famous movies.
• Day 3: Start with a hike up Mt. Eden, Auckland’s highest volcanic cone, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the city and its harbors. Afterward, head to the Auckland War Memorial Museum to learn about New Zealand’s rich history and culture through engaging exhibits. Finish your day at Queens Wharf, a vibrant area with plenty of dining options, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the sparkling waters as the sun sets on your memorable trip.

5 tips to find a great St. Mary's Bay hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit St. Mary's Bay is during May, June, and August, when hotel rates are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least 2 months in advance to secure the best prices. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area's key attractions, which include the local park and the scenic jetty pier. This makes St. Mary's Bay a great value for money destination for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals to St. Mary's Bay, you're in luck! On Hotels.com, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find attractive rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging a great offer, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for updates on flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions. This way, you’re more likely to take advantage of opportunities to save on your stay!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could give you a better chance to save on hotel expenses in St. Mary's Bay.
4. Consider your location: When booking your holiday on Hotels.com, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and the accessibility of the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in St. Mary's Bay and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in St. Mary's Bay

Here are some top-rated dishes in St. Mary's Bay, Auckland, Auckland Region, New Zealand:

• Fish and Chips: A beloved classic in New Zealand, fish and chips feature fresh, flaky fish, typically deep-fried in a light batter and served with golden, crispy chips. Enjoyed at seaside locations, it’s often eaten wrapped in paper and is perfect for a casual meal by the calm waters of St. Mary's Bay.
• Pavlova: This iconic dessert, named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, boasts a crisp meringue shell with a soft, marshmallow-like interior. Topped with whipped cream and a variety of fresh fruits, such as kiwifruit and berries, pavlova is a must-try that reflects New Zealand's love for seasonal produce and sweet indulgence.
• Meat Pie: A quintessential New Zealand comfort food, the meat pie is a flaky pastry filled with savory minced meat, often combined with cheese, mushrooms, or gravy. Grab one from a local bakery to experience this convenient and hearty dish, perfect for on-the-go dining while exploring the area's scenic views.

Best time to go to St. Mary's Bay

St. Mary's Bay experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 53.6°F (12.0°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 67.6°F (19.8°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in St. Mary's Bay, February, March, and May are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, June, October, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.