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Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel

4.0 star property
Beach motel in Nelson with free parking

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Photo gallery for Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel

One Bedroom Downstairs Spa Unit | Living area | LED TV, DVD player
Front of property
One Bedroom Downstairs Spa Unit | Terrace/patio
Standard Studio | Private kitchen | Fridge, microwave, electric kettle, cookware/dishes/utensils
Superior Apartment, 1 Bedroom, Kitchen | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Room service
  • Kitchen
  • Housekeeping
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking included
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
44 Tahunanui Drive, Nelson, 7011
  • Place, Tahunanui Beach Reserve
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Nelson Hospital
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Trafalgar Park
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Nelson (NSN)
    ‪4 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Studio

Standard Studio | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Standard Studio

7.0 out of 10
Good
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Executive Studio

Executive Studio | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Executive Studio

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for One Bedroom Upstairs Spa Unit

One Bedroom Upstairs Spa Unit | Jetted tub

One Bedroom Upstairs Spa Unit

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Family Apartment

Family Apartment | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Family Apartment

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for One Bedroom Downstairs Spa Unit

One Bedroom Downstairs Spa Unit | Jetted tub

One Bedroom Downstairs Spa Unit

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Superior Apartment, 1 Bedroom, Kitchen

Superior Apartment, 1 Bedroom, Kitchen | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Superior Apartment, 1 Bedroom, Kitchen

  • 42 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Standard Apartment, 1 Bedroom, Kitchen

Standard Apartment, 1 Bedroom, Kitchen | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Standard Apartment, 1 Bedroom, Kitchen

  • 452 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Double Bed and 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Superior Studio

Superior Studio | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Superior Studio

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • 344 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Standard Studio, Multiple Beds

Standard Studio, Multiple Beds | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Standard Studio, Multiple Beds

  • 32 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Studio

Deluxe Studio | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Deluxe Studio

  • 32 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Nelson

Located in Tahunanui, Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel is within a 10-minute stroll of sights such as Burrell Park and Tahunanui Beach Reserve. This 11-room, 4-star motel welcomes guests with in-room amenities like kitchens, refrigerators, and microwaves.
View more Motels in NelsonOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Tahunanui Beach Reserve - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • World of Wearable Art and Collectable Cars - 2 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Nelson Hospital - 4 min drive - 2.1 miles
  • Christ Church Cathedral - 5 min drive - 2.5 miles
  • Trafalgar Park - 6 min drive - 2.5 miles

Getting around

  • Nelson (NSN) - 5 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Coupland's Bakeries - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Sprig + Fern Tahuna - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Catch 22 Cafe & Bar - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Suburban Club - ‬10 min walk

About this property

Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel

Beach motel in Nelson with free parking
Guests of Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel enjoy free WiFi in public areas, meeting rooms, and express check-out. Free parking is available if you drive. Friendly staff can provide luggage storage, and also offer advice about sightseeing. Other amenities at this beach motel include laundry facilities, barbecue grills, and a garden.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 32-inch LED TVs with DVD players. Bathrooms have hair dryers and free toiletries. Kitchens, refrigerators, and microwaves are other standard amenities.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free extended parking on site

Family friendly

  • DVD player
  • In-room kitchen
  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Business services

  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • Wheelchair accessibility

More

  • 2 buildings
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch LED TV
  • DVD player

Food and drink

  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Kitchen
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator
  • Room service

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Portable fan

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open Monday - Saturday (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
If you are planning to arrive after 3:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

Access methods

Staffed front desk, lockbox

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts major credit cards
  • Check-in: 2 PM
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with free extended parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts major credit cards.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

National rating

For the benefit of our customers, we have provided a rating based on our rating system.

Property is also known as

Castles Motel
Castles Motel Nelson
Castles Nelson
Castles Motel
Castles Driftwood Motel Nelson
Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel Motel
Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel Nelson
Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel Motel Nelson

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel?

Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel provides free cancellation on select room rates. For additional details, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What's there to see around Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel?

This motel is situated in Tahunanui within a 10-minute walk of Tahunanui Beach Reserve, Natureland Zoo, and Burrell Park. You'll also find Nelson Fun Park and Paddy's Knob Reserve less than a mile away.

Is there parking available at Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel?

Yes, self parking and long-term parking are offered for free at the motel.

Does Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel include a casino on the premises?

No, Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this motel.

Is Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel good for couples?

Couples staying at this motel will value amenities like a kitchen, jetted bathtubs in some guestrooms, as well as a garden.

Does Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel have a hot tub?

No, but some guestrooms at this motel feature jetted bathtubs.

Does Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel.

Are there connecting rooms at Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel?

The closest major airport to Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel is Nelson (NSN), which is 2.3 mi away (5 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel.

Castles Motel and Driftwood Motel Reviews

Reviews

8.2

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 52 out of 144 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 61 out of 144 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 20 out of 144 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 7 out of 144 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 4 out of 144 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

6.8/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

6.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

6/10 Okay

Philipa

For the number of rooms, parking is very scarce and tight
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

GLENN

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Good place to stay. Didn't meet any staff, was texted where my room was, a where the key was. On leaving, I just left the key on the table and closed up the room, if they didn't want to meet me on checkin g, I wasn't meeting them on checkout either.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Ian

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

4/10 Poor

Lisa

Disliked: Amenities
Disappointed as I had thought I’d booked a nice night away with my husband… turned out it is an emergency accommodation provider . I’m not a snob and don’t judge people but they should have disclosed this when booking At 300/night I was expecting something nice and romantic … there were kids and families everywhere. I would suggest they include this in their booking information.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2022

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Disliked: Staff & service
We were informed that some rooms were tenanted for social housing. Thought that it will be ok but turned out to be a bad idea. People from nearby room were fighting at the middle of the night so hard to sleep. No heating inside the main bedroom. To top it all off a big drama played out on the last night- one of the lady owners threw a tantrum, crying and shouting out in the street in front of our room as partner seems to be leaving her. A lot of drama for a week we wanted to spend trying to relax.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Stayed 2 nights in May 2021

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Business traveler, Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Our unit,#15, was good.Had a lounge, seperate kitchen, seperate bathroom and a bedroom. A very cosy unit.
Stayed 9 nights in May 2020

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Business traveler
Liked: Staff & service
It was fine for what I needed for just the night but found the room and facilities a little outdated. Nice large room and enjoyed the Sky Sport. Really hand to all food, shops etc
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2020

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Great location to beach and local bars . Traffic noise at night noisey due to being on state highway.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It felt like home in this place - which was important in view of the bad weather outside! The room was cosy.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
It is dated and not appealing to stay at. Our coach was tattered and torn. One of the beds was comfortable and one was not. There were spider webs around the doors so needs a thorough cleaning.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2020

8/10 Good

William

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Comfortable room with friendly service
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Close to restaurants and great for groups, garden rooms were good but a little tired but perfect for us.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2019

6/10 Okay

Miguel

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Friendly staff but the studio was disappointing. The decor is dated and the downstairs rooms have no view. It was clean but best for a quick one night stopover rather than a weekend
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019

8/10 Good

georgina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very clean and comfortable. Noisy place with traffic. If not used to that its hard to sleep.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jillene

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Good clean,warm and friendly moteliers.

As this is our 4th time staying at Castles. we really like this place. It is close to where we want to go, Clean and tidy, warm also. The shower water has excellent pressure. Castles is easy to find. Close to several good eatery's, the beach is only minutes away.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very helpful & friendly staff, great location ......
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Thoroughly appreciated all the amenities available for one night only. Only dislike is unit being upstsirs for an older senior to walk upstairs prone to having an accident. Well worth recommending motel. Young lady very polite and accommdating when given wrong unit
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities
Disliked: Cleanliness
While the unit was reasonable there were cob webs on roof around the walls and spiders were plainly visible
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Traveled with family and small children
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
First the staff never cleaned our unit for the 3 nights we were there. Run out of toilet paper, towels.,soap,etc.Had to force them to do a basic clean in the end. Sleep on same sheets for all 3 nights. Next is the noise from the road all night long and you could hear people talking in the unit next to us.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

MATTHEW

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

DOG SHOW JUDGING

Lovely owners and really helpful, clean and good location easy access to local areas and town. Have stayed before and will be back in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2019