Summary:
Set above the shoreline at Onetangi Beach, The Sands Penthouse 11 is a bright, elevated apartment with wide, uninterrupted views across the bay. With a generous deck, easy indoor outdoor living, and immediate access to the beach and waterfront dining, it is a well positioned base for guests wanting comfort, outlook, and simplicity in one of Waiheke’s most popular beach locations.
The Space:
Penthouse 11 sits in an elevated position within The Sands complex and enjoys open views across Onetangi Bay. Full width sliding doors flood the living area with natural light, while the open plan layout keeps the apartment feeling spacious, modern, and easy to live in.
The kitchen, dining, and lounge areas are arranged as one connected space, allowing groups to gather comfortably without feeling crowded. The kitchen offers generous bench space and modern appliances, with clear sightlines across the living area so conversation flows easily while meals are prepared. The dining table sits beside large windows, and the lounge is arranged to take in both the view and the interior living space.
The deck is the defining feature of the apartment. Running the full length of the penthouse, it is north facing and set up with outdoor dining and relaxed seating, offering an open outlook across the water. Large sliders connect directly from the living area, making the transition between indoors and outdoors seamless and natural throughout the day.
The master bedroom opens to the view and includes a king bed and ensuite bathroom. The second and third bedrooms are bright and comfortable, each with modern bedding and easy access to the shared bathroom.
Please note there are internal stairs within the apartment, and the property is not suitable for young children.
Bed configuration:
Bedroom 1 - king bed.
Bedroom 2 - superking bed,
Bedroom 3 - 2 single beds.
Smoking Policy – The Sands Apartments
For safety and compliance, there is strictly no smoking inside the apartments or on the balconies at The Sands.
Smoke detectors are installed outside, and if smoke triggers an alarm and the Fire Brigade is called out, the call-out fee is $5,000. This cost will be charged to the guest.
You’re welcome to smoke only in the designated picnic area within The Sands complex.
Guest Access:
Guests have full use of the apartment and the large private deck.
Check-in is from 2pm, and check-out is 10:30am.
Early check-ins and late check-outs may be available for a fee and depend on same-day turnovers.
On-site parking is available.
The gas BBQs at The Sands are shared with other guests.
The Neighborhood:
The Sands sits at the quiet end of Onetangi Beach, with a flat, easy walk along the shoreline to two of the island’s most popular beachfront spots, Charlie Farley’s for breakfast and relaxed daytime meals, and the Beach Store for quick cabinet food and takeaway coffee before a morning swim. For long lunches or dinner by the water, both Three Seven Two and Ki Māha are close by, offering seasonal menus and a relaxed beachfront setting. The Onetangi Valley is also just a short drive away, home to some of Waiheke’s best vineyards. Tantalus Estate and Stonyridge offer refined, scenic dining among the vines, while Wild on Waiheke and Te Motu provide more casual options for tastings or shared plates. The Heke, also nearby, is a local favourite for wood-fired food, craft beers, and relaxed outdoor seating. With the beach at your doorstep and the island’s food and wine hubs within minutes, the penthouse is well positioned for easy days out and simple evenings close to home.
Getting Around:
The nearest bus stop is just a short walk from The Sands, with regular services running along the Onetangi–Oneroa route. These buses stop directly outside all major wineries in the Onetangi Valley, including Stonyridge, Tantalus, Te Motu and Wild on Waiheke, making it easy to move between the beach, the vineyards, and the main village without needing a car. Taxis and shuttle services operate island-wide, though these can be quite expensive. E-bikes and hire cars are also available to rent on the island for guests who want more flexibility.
For those wanting to explore further afield, Oneroa Village is an easy trip by bus trip away, offering cafés, bars, and boutique shopping. Further east, the destination wineries such as Passage Rock and Man O’ War are best reached by car or pre-booked tour, with scenic countryside and coastal views along the way. Whether you prefer to walk, cycle, or use local transport, the penthouse is well positioned for simple beach days, vineyard visits, and exploring the wider island.
Other Things to Note:
There are internal stairs within the apartment.
The property is not suitable for young children.
Sky Sport is available via the Sky app (guests must use their own login).
Water Use Tank Supply:
The Sands operates on rainwater tanks, so guests need to be mindful of water use, especially in summer.
Smoking Policy The Sands:
There is no smoking inside the apartment or on the balconies. External smoke detectors are fitted, and any triggered alarm that results in a Fire Brigade call-out will incur a $5,000 fee, charged to the guest.
Smoking is permitted only in the designated picnic area.
Minimum stays:
7 nights mid-Dec to mid-Jan
3 nights on holiday weekends
2 nights all other times
Interaction with Guests:
Our Stay Waiheke team is available 7 days a week from 8:30am to 5pm for general queries.
For life-threatening emergencies such as fire, medical, or police, guests must call 111 immediately.
For all other urgent issues after hours, an emergency number is provided in the arrival instructions.
