Experience the Kiwi Dream at The Sands Motel Tūtūkākā
Welcome to The Sands Motel, where the Kiwi dream of a holiday house at the beach becomes your reality. Situated directly next to the beautiful white-sand beach of Whangaumu Bay on the picturesque Tūtūkākā Coast, this absolute beachfront property offers an experience that guests describe as “heaven on earth.” With direct beach access just a dozen steps from your deck across tree-shaded lawns, you’ll discover a massively beautiful beach with stunning sea views and a location so superb that couples rate it 9.9 out of 10. Hosts Shelley and Ross warmly welcome you to this small, intimate property where everything feels just right.
The location truly is perfection. Walk off your outdoor deck across the charming grassy space adorned with mature pohutukawa trees, down a few steps, and you’re on the gorgeous white-sand beach of Whangaumu Bay – safe for swimming, ideal for kayaking and fishing, and perfect for leisurely dawn or dusk walks along its peaceful length. Located 30 minutes northeast of Whangārei and only 1.5 hours from the Bay of Islands, The Sands Motel provides the ideal base for exploring Northland’s treasures. For divers, the location is unbeatable – just five minutes’ drive to Tūtūkākā Marina, the gateway to the world-renowned Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, whilst non-divers can relax all day at this tranquil beachfront haven.
The Sands Motel offers six spacious, fully self-contained two-bedroom units, each accommodating up to four guests comfortably with one queen-size bed and two single beds. A sofa bed in the lounge provides space for one additional person, with a maximum occupancy of five per unit. Every immaculately clean unit features a comfortable lounge area with flat-screen TV and satellite channels, a fully equipped kitchen complete with refrigerator, microwave, electric kettle, and dining table for preparing your own meals, and a private bathroom with shower. Air conditioning ensures year-round comfort, whilst the rooms are equipped with quality bed linen and towels. Many units offer spectacular sea views, whilst others feature lovely garden outlooks.
Step outside onto your private deck or balcony – the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee whilst watching the bay come to life, or to unwind with an evening drink as the sun sets. The outdoor spaces are beautifully complemented by the lush, well-maintained gardens filled with abundant mature pohutukawa trees providing natural shade. Gather at the picnic tables next to the beach under the shade of the trees, or fire up the communal gas BBQ facilities for outdoor dining with that spectacular beach backdrop. The expansive grassy areas are perfect for families, providing safe space for children to play whilst you relax.
The facilities and services ensure a comfortable, hassle-free stay. Complimentary WiFi throughout the property keeps you connected, whilst free parking accommodates your vehicle with ease. Self-serve laundry facilities with drying areas are available for longer stays, and you can borrow beach towels for your coastal adventures. A small on-site minimarket stocks essentials if needed, though other shops, restaurants, bars, and cafés are just a short drive away in Tūtūkākā. The attentive and friendly staff go out of their way to be helpful, creating that welcoming Kiwi hospitality that makes guests feel right at home.
What makes The Sands Motel truly special is its peaceful, quiet setting in an area yet to be overdeveloped. There are no bars, shops, or restaurants immediately nearby, which creates a genuinely tranquil atmosphere – the perfect contrast to busy city stays and ideal for those seeking rest and relaxation. The location is spectacular for exploring the Tūtūkākā Coast’s superb beaches and stunning coastal walkways, with attractions like Matapouri Bay, Tūtūkākā Headland, and various water sports activities all nearby. Whether you’re here for world-class diving at the Poor Knights, enjoying family beach time in the safe swimming bay, planning a reunion or birthday celebration (book all six units!), or simply unwinding after a long journey, The Sands Motel delivers an absolutely fabulous beachfront experience that will have you planning your return visit before you’ve even left.
