Summary:
Light, bright, and only seconds from the white sands of Onetangi Beach, Apartment 12 is a relaxed two-bedroom, two-bathroom beachfront stay with open-plan living and easy indoor–outdoor flow.
The Space:
Apartment 12 is designed for simple, relaxed beachside living at the quiet end of Onetangi. The interior is light and bright, with wide windows that bring in soft natural light and give a filtered outlook toward the bay. The layout is uncomplicated and easy to use, with everything arranged around a central open-plan living area.
The kitchen, dining, and lounge share one connected space, making the apartment practical for couples, friends, or small families. The kitchen includes stainless appliances, good bench space, and everything needed for easy meals at home. The lounge is comfortably furnished and set up for quiet evenings after beach days, while the dining area sits alongside the main windows, keeping the living area open and welcoming.
The bedrooms are positioned away from the main living area for privacy. The master bedroom has a queen bed and its own ensuite bathroom. The second bedroom has a king bed that can be split into two singles on request, with a second full bathroom located close by. The layout offers flexibility without feeling crowded, giving guests comfortable private spaces as well as room to spend time together.
Apartment 12 is made for a slow, easy stay, morning walks on Onetangi, relaxed time at home, and simple access to the beachfront restaurants and nearby vineyards.
Bed & Bath Configuration
Apartment 12
Bedroom 1: Queen bed (ensuite)
Bedroom 2: King bed (can be split into singles)
Bathroom 2: Full bathroom adjacent to Bedroom 2
Total: 2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms
Occupancy: Up to 4 guests
Please note: Minimum stays: Mid December to mid January - 7 nights, holiday weekends - 3 nights and 2 nights at all other times. The gas BBQ's are shared with other guests at The Sands.
There is no smoking inside the apartments or on the balconies. External smoke detectors are fitted, and any Fire Brigade call-out will result in a $5,000 fee charged to the guest. Smoking is permitted only in the designated picnic area.
Guest Access:
Guests have full use of the apartment.
Check-in is from 2pm, and check-out is 10:30am.
Early check-in or late check-out may be available for a fee, depending on same-day bookings.
Parking is available at the property.
The gas BBQs are shared with other guests at The Sands.
The Neighborhood:
Apartment 12 is located at the quieter end of Onetangi Beach, with a flat walk along the sand to Charlie Farley’s and the Beach Store for morning coffee or relaxed daytime meals. For long lunches or dinner, Ki Māha and Three Seven Two are also close by, offering seasonal menus and a premium beachfront setting.
The apartment is a short drive from key island amenities, including the Waiheke golf course, Countdown supermarket, and the Saturday farmers market in Ostend, making it easy to pick up supplies or plan local outings during your stay. The Onetangi Valley is also nearby, home to some of the island’s best wineries. Tantalus Estate and Stonyridge offer refined dining among the vines, while Wild on Waiheke provides a more casual tasting and lunch option. The Heke, also close, serves wood-fired food and craft beers in a relaxed garden setting.
Getting Around:
The nearest bus stop is a short walk from the apartment, with regular services running between Onetangi and Oneroa. These buses stop directly outside the major vineyards in the Onetangi Valley, including Tantalus, Stonyridge, Te Motu, and Wild on Waiheke, making it an easy way to get around without a car.
Taxis on Waiheke are very expensive, and private drivers can be costly as well, especially in peak season. If you plan to explore more of the island, booking an e-bike or hire car is often the most practical and cost-effective option. For trips further east, such as Passage Rock or Man O’ War, a car or pre-booked tour is the best choice, as these areas are not serviced by the bus.
Other Things to Note:
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-December to mid-January
3 nights on holiday weekends
2 nights at all other times
The gas BBQ's are shared with other guests at The Sands.
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 or emergencies to the property such as fire, medical, or police, guests must call 111 immediately.
An after-hours emergency number is provided for urgent issues that are not life-threatening.
