Where to Stayat Milford Sound?
Complete guide to accommodation at Milford Sound and the region.
Camping, lodges, hotels and hostels.
Staying at Milford Sound: experience the fjord differently
Spending a night at Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most memorable experiences.
With only a few accommodation options directly on site, you'll experience the fjord in absolute tranquility, away from the daytime crowds. Wake up facing Mitre Peak and enjoy sunset over calm waters guaranteed!
Why stay at Milford Sound?
Discover the benefits of spending the night at Milford Sound, away from the daytime crowds.
Accommodation at Milford Sound
Chalets, camping or boat: all options for sleeping near the fjord.
Other accommodation options
Milford Road, Te Anau, Queenstown: alternatives and practical tips.
Why stay at Milford Sound?
While it's possible to visit Milford Sound on a day trip, spending a night there completely transforms your experience. Discover why this decision can make all the difference.
Magical sunrise and sunset
The morning light over the fjord is absolutely stunning. The first rays of sunlight caressing the walls of Mitre Peak create a spectacle of breathtaking beauty. Golden and pink colours reflect in the calm waters of the fjord, offering exceptional photographic conditions.
In the evening, you'll witness a sunset without the tourist crowds. The atmosphere becomes mystical as shadows lengthen between the 1,200-meter-high cliffs. A privilege that only overnight visitors can fully appreciate.
More active wildlife
Seals, dolphins and seabirds are considerably more active in the morning and evening when there's no one around. New Zealand fur seals come out on the rocks to bask, dolphins come to play near boats, and Fiordland penguins can be observed.
Endemic birds like the Kea, Tui and royal albatross are also more easily observed in the morning calm. Without the noise of bus engines and the bustle of crowds, wildlife reclaims its rights in this natural sanctuary.
Exceptional starry sky
Milford Sound is part of the Fiordland Dark Sky Reserve, one of the least light-polluted areas in the world. On clear nights, you can observe the Milky Way in all its splendour, the Magellanic Clouds, and with a bit of luck, the southern aurora.
The total absence of light pollution and the pure air of Fiordland offer astronomical observation conditions that few places on Earth can match. An unforgettable night spectacle framed by the majestic silhouettes of mountains.
Absolute tranquility
You'll be more peaceful visiting the fjord since tourist buses from Queenstown and Te Anau only arrive around 12pm. In the morning, Milford Sound belongs almost exclusively to you, allowing perfect communion with this preserved nature.
This tranquility allows you to fully appreciate the natural sounds: the lapping of water against rocks, birdsong, and sometimes absolute silence. A meditative experience impossible to live with the tourist crowds during the day.
Cheaper morning cruises
Taking your cruise early in the morning presents a significant economic advantage. The first boat trips in the fjord are very often the least expensive, with discounts of up to 20-30% compared to midday time slots.
Additionally, you benefit from more personalized service with less rushed guides and optimal navigation conditions. Captains take more time to approach waterfalls and observe wildlife when there are fewer boats on the water.
A transformed experience
Staying at Milford Sound transforms a simple visit into a true immersion in one of the most spectacular landscapes on the planet. It's moving from tourist status to privileged visitor.
Accommodation at Milford Sound
Milford Sound has very few accommodation options directly on site. The Milford Sound Lodge is the only establishment offering both luxury chalets and camping.
Another option is to spend the night aboard a boat in the fjord. A truly unique but expensive experience.
For those seeking more variety, alternatives exist in Te Anau, Queenstown or nearby areas.
Lodge Chalets
Exclusive luxury accommodation
Milford Sound LodgeCamping
Budget-friendly nature option
Unique camping siteCruises
Overnight on the fjord
Unique experienceMilford Sound Lodge - Chalets
The exclusive luxury accommodation at Milford Sound
Types of chalets available
Luxury Riverside Chalet
Capacity: 2 people maximum
Configuration: Studio with super king bed
View: Cleddau River and rainforest
Amenities: Dining area, lounge, bathroom, private deck
Most exclusive - Book 12 months in advance recommended
Mountain View Chalet
Capacity: 2 people maximum
Configuration: Spacious studio
View: Mountains
Amenities: Dining area, lounge, bathroom, private deck
Perfect balance of style and serenity
Two Bedroom Chalet Suite
Capacity: 4 people maximum
Configuration: 2 bedrooms + lounge
View: Mountains
Amenities: Dining area, lounge, bathroom, private deck
Ideal for families and small groups - Only 4 chalets
💰 Pricing and included services
- • Rates: NZ$400-800/night depending on season and type
- • All meals included: breakfast, dinner
- • Piopio Restaurant: local and international cuisine
- • Bar with fireplace: cozy atmosphere
- • Transfers: from Te Anau available
- • Free WiFi: internet connection
🎯 Activities and services
- • Fjord cruise: depending on package
- • Equipment rental: hiking gear
- • Milford Sound activities: privileged access
- • Naturalist guides: local expertise
- • Eco-responsible design: environmental respect
- • Concierge service: personalized assistance
Important booking information
Advance booking required: 6-12 months ahead
Luxury Riverside: Fills up first
Season: October to April mainly
Access: Road, helicopter or flight from Queenstown
Check-in: 3:00 PM / Check-out: 11:00 AM
Policy: Check cancellation conditions
Camping at Milford Sound Lodge
The only camping site at Milford Sound
Campsites:
- • 50 sites with electricity available
- • Unique camping in the heart of the rainforest
- • Spacious sites for vans and motorhomes
- • Clear views of surrounding mountains
- • Peaceful and authentic atmosphere in nature
- • Wake up to the sounds of Fiordland wildlife
- • Tents not permitted
- • 240V power supply available
- • Max. size 7.5 metres
- • Access to complete facilities
🏢 Facilities and services
Communal kitchen
Fully equipped with refrigerators, cooking hobs, microwave
Bathrooms
Hot showers, toilets, washbasins - modern facilities
Laundry
Washing machines and dryers available
Common lounge
Relaxation space with fireplace, ideal for evenings
💰 Rates and bookings
- • Site: NZ$120/night
- • Showers: Included in the rate
- • Booking: Highly recommended
- • High season: Book 2-3 months in advance
- • Payment: Cards accepted
🎒 Essential items to bring
- • Food and drinks: No shops on site
- • Waterproof clothing: Frequent rain
- • Head torch: Night lighting
- • Cooking equipment: If self-catering
- • Insect repellent: Sandflies present
Why choose camping at Milford Sound?
Unique experience: Only campsite in the heart of Milford Sound
Budget controlled: Most economical option on site
Nature immersion: Wake up to the sound of the rainforest
Community: Meet fellow adventurers
Flexibility: Cook according to your preferences
Authenticity: Exceptional camping experience
Overnight cruises
Sleep on the tranquil waters of the fjord
Real NZ - Milford Mariner
Traditional schooner-style vessel
🛏️ Accommodation
- • Capacity: 64 passengers maximum
- • Private cabins: With bathroom
- • Options: Single, double or twin
- • Equipment: Duvets, sheets, towels provided
🍽️ Dining and activities
- • 3-course dinner: Seafood, meat, vegetarian options
- • Breakfast: Cooked and continental buffet
- • Kayaking: 20 kayaks on board
- • Tender boats: 2 tender crafts
- • Naturalist guide: Educational presentations
⏰ Sample itinerary
- • 4:00 PM: Boarding and welcome tea
- • Afternoon: Cruise and anchor at Harrison Cove
- • Activities: Kayaking, swimming, exploration
- • Evening: Dinner, stargazing
- • Morning: Sunrise, breakfast
- • 9:15 AM: Return to terminal
Fiordland Discovery - Fiordland Jewel
Luxury boutique catamaran
🛏️ Premium accommodation
- • Capacity: 22 passengers maximum
- • Cabins: 9 air-conditioned cabins
- • Sea view: All cabins with ocean view
- • Bathroom: In each cabin
- • Comfort: Luxurious atmosphere
🍽️ Culinary experience
- • Chef on board: Cuisine prepared on site
- • 3-course dinner: Plated dishes
- • Breakfast: Cooked and continental
- • Tea/coffee: Free continuously
⏰ Luxury itinerary
- • 2:35 PM: Check-in
- • 3:10 PM: Departure
- • 18 hours: Total cruise duration
- • Anchoring: Deepwater Basin
- • Activities: Kayaking, hot tub, swimming
- • 8:45 AM: Return next day
Overnight cruise comparison
| Criteria | Real NZ - Milford Mariner | Fiordland Discovery - Fiordland Jewel |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 64 passengers | 22 passengers |
| Style | Traditional schooner | Luxury catamaran |
| Indicative price | Approx. $800 | Approx. $1,200 |
| Atmosphere | Friendly, authentic | Boutique, intimate |
| Highlights | Historic experience, good value | Hot tub, helipad, premium service |
Why choose an overnight cruise?
Total immersion: Fall asleep on fjord waters
Included activities: Kayaking, swimming, exploration
Gastronomy: Quality meals with views
Sunrise: Spectacular views from your cabin
All inclusive: Accommodation + meals + activities
Expert guides: Naturalist commentary
Other accommodation options in the region
Campsites along Milford Road
Milford Road offers several camping options for an authentic experience in the wilderness. These campsites are perfect for travelers with motorhomes or tents who want to discover the spectacular Fiordland landscapes while keeping their budget under control.
🏕️ Recommended campsites
Cascade Creek Campsite - DOC
NZ$18/night
Dry toilets available, no electricity
Totara Campsite - DOC
NZ$18/night
Dry toilets available, no electricity
Eglinton Valley Camp - Private
NZ$35/night
Toilets, showers, kitchen
Walker Creek Campsite - DOC
NZ$15/night
Dry toilets available, no electricity
Accommodation in Te Anau
Te Anau is the perfect base for exploring Milford Sound, located just 2 hours drive away. This charming town offers a complete range of accommodation, from budget hostels to luxury hotels, with all necessary services: restaurants, shops and activities.
🏨 Popular accommodation
Distinction Te Anau Hotel
NZ$280-380/night • 4-star • Lake
Lake view, restaurant, spa, free parking
Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park
NZ$45-120/night • Camping/Cabins
Family-friendly, communal kitchen, playgrounds
Te Anau Lakeview Motel
NZ$180-250/night • Modern • View
Kitchenette, balcony, close to town center
Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers
NZ$35-85/night • Hostel • Social
Dorms, private rooms, communal kitchen
Staying in Queenstown
Queenstown offers the widest choice of accommodation in the entire region, from backpackers to 5-star resorts. Perfect for combining Milford Sound with other adventure activities, this iconic destination also offers numerous transport options to the fjord.
🏨 Accommodation selection
The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments
NZ$450-800/night • Luxury • Lake
Spa, restaurants, panoramic Wakatipu views
Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
NZ$220-350/night • Center • 4⭐
Perfect location, lake view, modern
YHA Queenstown Central
NZ$45-120/night • Hostel • Social
New hostel, kitchen, lounge, eco-friendly
Coronation Lodge
NZ$150-280/night • B&B • Charming
Colonial style, breakfast included
Frequently Asked Questions
These articles might also interest you
Complete your preparation with our other essential guides to Milford Sound
Milford Sound Cruise
Explore the wonders of Milford Sound with our comprehensive cruise guide: options, tips and best experiences to discover the fjords.
Milford Sound Hiking
The best hikes to do at Milford Sound and in Fiordland National Park: Key Summit, Milford Track, Gertrude Saddle and more.
Milford Sound from Queenstown
How to organize your visit to Milford Sound from Queenstown: transport, tours, practical tips for an unforgettable day in Fiordland.