Return to main article27 Affordable Beach Resorts
Awaroa Lodge
New Zealand
Price: $230 WHAT IT'S LIKE: When he created the isolated Awaroa Lodge, leading Kiwi architect Ian Athfield was inspired by a classic New Zealand bach (weekend cottage). Set deep within the Abel Tasman National Park, the 26-room eco-lodge is in harmony with the great outdoors: earth-toned interiors, recycled-driftwood banisters, balconies that overlook wetlands teeming with native birds (including rare white herons). The golden, iron ore–laced sands of Awaroa Bay are a two-minute trail walk through the bush. To get to the hotel, you can take a plane, helicopter, or boat, but the least expensive way is with a water taxi from the Abel Tasman National Park entrance at Marahau (aquataxi.co.nz; one-way fare $27). WHAT TO DO: The 32-mile Abel Tasman Coastal Track, which runs right past the lodge, makes for a great hike along the Tasman Sea. —Kendall Hill
