I remember the first time I stumbled upon Russell while planning a weekend away from Auckland. I was exhausted from work, and all I wanted was some peace and quiet, a bit of nature, and somewhere to just switch off. So, a mate suggested Russell. At first, I wasn’t sold. You know how it is—when you live in NZ, you hear about the classic spots like Queenstown or Rotorua, but Russell? That was new territory for me. But trust me, it turned out to be the best decision I could’ve made.

Russell is one of those places that still holds onto its charm. No sprawling resorts or fancy, over-the-top tourist traps. Instead, it’s got this laid-back, almost old-school vibe. If you're after a relaxing escape with a touch of history and stunning views, then accommodation in russell is something you should seriously consider. Let me break down why.

Finding the Right Spot

When you’re looking for accommodation in Russell, there’s a huge variety to choose from. From holiday homes and quaint B&Bs to motels and boutique hotels, there’s something for everyone. But here’s the trick – book early. Russell’s one of those places that might seem under the radar, but once people catch wind of it, accommodation fills up fast, especially during the summer.

Personally, I went for a small B&B right near the water. The hosts were locals, and they gave me heaps of tips on what to see and where to eat (they even recommended the best spots to avoid the usual crowds). That’s one of the benefits of staying in a smaller, more personal place—you get a bit of local insight, which you’d miss out on if you stayed in a larger hotel chain.

Holiday Homes – Perfect for Groups

If you’re travelling with mates or family, renting out a holiday home is probably the best bet. I’ve stayed in a few over the years, and there’s nothing quite like having a space to yourself. You can cook your own meals, lounge about in the garden, and really make it feel like home. Plus, Russell has some amazing beachfront properties where you can wake up and stroll right onto the sand.

One of my favourite memories was staying in a holiday home with a few mates. We’d fire up the BBQ in the evening and watch the sunset, beers in hand, not a care in the world. There’s something about being in a small town like Russell that makes time feel slower, and those quiet moments become golden memories.

Boutique Hotels – For a Bit of Luxury

Now, if you’re after something a little more special, you won’t be disappointed. Russell’s got some stunning boutique hotels that offer just the right amount of luxury without being too flashy. Perfect if you’re planning a romantic getaway or just want to treat yourself.

One place that really stands out is the Duke of Marlborough. It’s one of New Zealand’s oldest hotels, right on the waterfront, with incredible views of the bay. The rooms are stylish, and the restaurant? Next-level seafood. I remember one evening there, sitting on the deck, looking out over the bay, and thinking, “I could really get used to this.” It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’ve stepped into another era, but with all the modern comforts.

Affordable Options – Keep It Simple

If you’re on a budget, no stress. There are plenty of affordable options in Russell too. From cosy motels to backpacker lodges, you won’t have to break the bank to enjoy this beautiful spot. The best part? Even the more budget-friendly places still offer those amazing views and that peaceful, laid-back atmosphere.

I once stayed in a small, no-frills motel up on the hill. The view was unreal, and despite not being super fancy, it had everything I needed. Sometimes, simplicity is the way to go. You’ll spend most of your time out exploring anyway, so as long as your accommodation is clean, comfortable, and has a decent view, you’re all set.

Explore Russell’s Charm

When you’re not relaxing in your accommodation, there’s plenty to do in Russell itself. It’s a small town, so don’t expect huge shopping malls or wild nightlife (thankfully). Instead, think long walks along the beach, historical sites like the Russell Museum or Christ Church, and loads of great little cafes and restaurants.

If you’re into history, Russell’s got a rich one. It used to be known as the “Hell Hole of the Pacific” because of its wild past with sailors and whalers. But now? It’s more like paradise. Every time I visit, I make sure to take a ferry over to Paihia or go for a sail in the Bay of Islands. The scenery is next-level, and being on the water is one of the best ways to soak it all in.

A Few Final Tips

• Book Early: Especially if you're visiting in peak season, like summer or school holidays.
• Try Local: Go for a local B&B or holiday home if you can. You’ll get a more authentic experience.
• Don’t Forget to Explore: Whether it’s hiring a kayak, visiting historical sites, or just wandering the beaches, make sure you leave time to explore beyond your accommodation.

Accommodations in Russell are varied enough that whether you're after a cosy B&B, a luxurious boutique hotel, or a simple motel, there’s something for you. What makes Russell truly special is the town itself—charming, peaceful, and full of history. I never thought I’d be the kind of person to fall for a place like this, but after that first trip, I’ve been back more times than I can count. Trust me, once you experience it, you’ll understand why.