The Sandcastle
Chalet 6 berth - View, The Sandcastle in Golden Bay
a garden filled with flowers next to a house, The Sandcastle in Golden Bay
a bedroom with a television and a bed, The Sandcastle in Golden Bay
a bed room with a bed and a tent, The Sandcastle in Golden Bay
Bathroom, The Sandcastle in Golden Bay
Exterior view, The Sandcastle in Golden Bay

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8.2

Excellent

417 reviews

417 reviews

Children's activities2
Beach1
Kitchen1
See map
See map

8.5

Excellent

Location rating score

Excellent location
Parking
FREE
Nearby landmarks
Takaka Airport 10.4 km
Fairholme Gallery 13.1 km
Kaihoka Lakes 39.7 km
Nelson Airport 58.6 km
Woodbourne Airport 111.0 km
Westport Airport 149.1 km
Wellington International Airport 169.9 km
Kapiti Coast Airport 175.9 km
Kaikoura Aerodrome 186.4 km
Whanganui Airport 204.9 km
Entire bungalow

The Sandcastle

Takaka, Golden Bay, New Zealand - See map

The car parking and the Wi-Fi are always free, so you can stay in touch and come and go as you please. Conveniently situated in the Takaka part of Golden Bay, this property puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options. Rated with 4 stars, this high-quality property provides guests with access to massage, hot tub and spa on-site.

Highlights

Check-in [24-hour]

Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!

Hot tub

Sauna

Daily housekeeping

This property has self-selected and self-certified the following hygiene measures.Learn more
Safety Features
Staff trained in safety protocol
See all amenities
Preventative Equipment
Hand sanitizer
Health and Medical
First aid kit
Doctor/nurse on call
Facilities

Front desk [24-hour]

Pets allowed

Car park

Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!

Hot tub

Golf course [on-site]

BBQ facilities

Luggage storage

Cheaper than 99% of all properties in Golden Bay in the last 24 hoursCompared to 78 Golden Bay properties at Agoda for various dates
Value for money8.6
Distance to city center10 km
Location rating8.5

Rooms available at The Sandcastle

Deluxe Double Room with Balcony and Sea View
...
  • Balcony/terrace
  • Shower
  • 1 queen bed
Enter dates to see prices
Chalet
...
  • Room size: 60 m²/646 ft²
  • Sea view
  • 1 bunk bed and 2 queen beds
Enter dates to see prices
Bungalow with Sea View
...
  • Room size: 60 m²/646 ft²
  • Sea view
  • 1 queen bed and 1 bunk bed
Enter dates to see prices
One-Bedroom Chalet
...
  • Room size: 60 m²/646 ft²
  • Sea view
  • 2 queen beds
Enter dates to see prices
Studio with Garden View
...
  • Balcony/terrace
  • Shower
  • 1 queen bed
Enter dates to see prices
chalet 4 berth
...
  • Room size: 60 m²/646 ft²
  • Sea view
  • 1 queen bed and 1 bunk bed
Enter dates to see prices
Chalet 6 berth
...
  • Room size: 60 m²/646 ft²
  • Sea view
  • 2 queen beds and 1 bunk bed
Enter dates to see prices
Chalet(4 Persons)
...
  • Balcony/terrace
  • Shower
  • 2 single beds and 1 double ...
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Chalet - sleeps 6
...
  • Balcony/terrace
  • Shower
  • 2 single beds and 2 double ...
Enter dates to see prices
Design Double Room
...
  • Balcony/terrace
  • Shower
  • 1 queen bed
Enter dates to see prices

Frequently asked questions

What time is check-in and check-out at The Sandcastle?

Check-in is from 07:00 AM, and check-out is until 11:00 AM. You may request early check-in or late check-out during booking, subject to availability. Guests checking in or out before or after the designated periods may be charged an additional fee. The bungalow offers luggage storage to guests for before check-in and after check-out. The front desk is always open, day or night.

How do I get to The Sandcastle?

For those who wish to drive their own cars, The Sandcastle has a car park right on site for maximum convenience. Parking is free for guests.

Is breakfast offered at The Sandcastle?

Wake up to a great continental breakfast at The Sandcastle. Adults can enjoy breakfast offered with an additional charge of 11 NZD if not included in the room rate. You may save on breakfast costs with Agoda by booking a room with breakfast, which is often included for less than buying it at the bungalow.

What is the smoking policy at The Sandcastle?

The Sandcastle does not permit smoking in any of its rooms or indoor areas.

What is the closest airport to The Sandcastle?

The closest airport to The Sandcastle is Takaka Airport, 10.3 km away.

What restaurants are nearby The Sandcastle?

The Sandcastle is located in Takaka, famous for good restaurants such as Mussel Inn.

What popular shopping places are close to The Sandcastle?

Shopping options in The Sandcastle’s Takaka neighborhood include Fairholme Gallery.

What popular natural sightseeing spots are close to The Sandcastle?

The Sandcastle is located within Takaka, which makes it conveniently close to natural sights including Rawhiti Cave and Te Waikoropupu Springs.

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Explore the neighborhood

What people love about The Sandcastle

  • 8.4

    Excellent
    Cleanliness

    "Clean linen and amenities."

    Julie-Ann

    |

    November 8, 2021

  • 10

    Exceptional
    Cleanliness

    "The room was very clean and quiet."

    Felicity

    |

    July 28, 2020

  • 8

    Very good
    Location

    "We stayed here for one night, it is a lovely location and very quiet."

    Becky

    |

    May 2, 2021

Property ranking|Compared to 78 Golden Bay properties
See all rankings
Cheapest price score
Room size
60 sqm.
Service score
9/10
Value for money score
8.6/10
Better than
99
%
of Golden Bay properties
Bigger than
99
%
of Golden Bay properties
Better than
94
%
of Golden Bay properties
Better than
92
%
of Golden Bay properties
Overall rating:

8.2

Excellent
417 reviews
Cleanliness
7.2
Facilities
7.9
Location
8.5
Read all reviews >
More about The Sandcastle

More about The Sandcastle

The Sandcastle

The facilities and services provided by The Sandcastle ensure a pleasant stay for guests. Post your pictures and answer your emails whenever you want, with the bungalow's free Wi-Fi internet access. Parking is available and free, provided by the bungalow for guests with their own transportation. The bungalow provides front desk services such as luggage storage for guests' convenience.
The bungalow's on-site laundromat helps you keep your favorite travel outfits clean so you can pack less. In-room conveniences include room service and daily housekeeping, so you can relax and enjoy your stay. The bungalow is entirely non-smoking, ensuring a clean air environment.
Experience high-quality room facilities during your stay at The Sandcastle. The bungalow provides linen service in some rooms for the benefit of guests. Some selected rooms at The Sandcastle include a balcony or terrace, as part of the room design. Some selected rooms have television and cable TV to keep guests entertained.
The bungalow also provides guests with a refrigerator and a coffee or tea maker in some rooms. The Sandcastle also provides a hair dryer in some of its bathrooms for your convenience.


Dining and things to do

Start your vacation days in the best possible way. Begin every morning of your stay with an in-house breakfast. Have fun at night with your travel companions right at the bungalow's bar. If you're truly selective about eating, you'll be grateful for the in-house BBQ facilities available here.
To fill your days, be sure to check out the fantastic facilities offered at The Sandcastle. Pamper and indulge yourself with a visit to the massage, hot tub, spa and sauna. Hot days can be cool fun with water activities like the fishing. Have some easy fun and maybe meet others while playing recreation activities such as horse riding.
In a competitive mood? Get sporty with your travel group or other guests at the ping-pong table and golf course on site in the bungalow. Have some relaxing fun with family and friends at the library.


Reasons to stay here

Rooms here are cheaper than 98% of accommodations in the city.
This bungalow's food and dining score higher than 93% of accommodations in the city.
Room comfort is said to be outstanding here, scoring higher than 93% of accommodations in the city.

Show less

Amenities and facilities

Very good
Facilities

7.9

Languages spoken
  • English
Internet access
  • Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!
  • Internet
  • Internet services
  • Wi-Fi in public areas
Things to do, ways to relax
  • Fishing
  • Garden
  • Golf course [on-site]
  • Horseback riding
  • Hot tub
  • Massage
  • Outdoor recreational features
  • Sauna
  • Spa
  • Spa/sauna
  • Table tennis
  • Yoga room
Cleanliness and safety
  • Anti-viral cleaning products
  • Breakfast in room
  • Cashless payment service
  • Daily disinfection in all rooms
  • Daily disinfection in common areas
  • Doctor/nurse on call
  • First aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Hot water linen and laundry washing
  • Physical distancing of at least 1 meter
  • Professional-grade sanitizing services
  • Protective screens in common areas
  • Room sanitization opt-out available
  • Rooms sanitized between stays
  • Shared stationery removed
  • Staff trained in safety protocol
  • Temperature check for guests and staff
Dining, drinking, and snacking
  • Bar
  • BBQ facilities
  • Breakfast [continental]
  • Kitchen
  • Room service
Services and conveniences
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Heating in public area
  • Invoice provided
  • Laundromat
  • Laundry service
  • Library
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke-free property
  • Smoking area
  • Terrace
For the kids
  • Family room
  • Playground
Land sports
  • Golf course (within 3 km)
Access
  • Check-in [24-hour]
  • Dog-friendly
  • Front desk [24-hour]
  • Pet-friendly [charges apply]
  • Pets allowed
  • Pets allowed for free
Getting around
  • Car park [free of charge]
  • Car park [on-site]
Available in all rooms
  • Balcony/terrace
  • Desk
  • Free bottled water
  • Heating
  • Kitchenette
  • Kitchenware
  • Linens
  • Low floor available
  • Satellite/cable channels
  • Seating area
  • Separate dining area
  • Shower
  • Sofa

Food and dining

Breakfast options
  • Continental
  • Full English/Irish

Location

32 Haile Lane, Pohara, Golden Bay, Takaka, Golden Bay, New Zealand, 7183
Excellent
Location

8.5

Property policies

Children and extra beds

Extra beds are dependent on the room you choose. Please check the individual room capacity for more details.

All children are welcome.

Children 0-3 year(s)
Stay for free if using existing bedding.
If you need an extra bed, it will incur an additional charge.
Guests 4 years and older are considered as adults
Must use an extra bed which will incur an additional charge.
Others
  • When booking more than 5 rooms, different policies and additional supplements may apply.

Some helpful facts

Check-in/Check-out
  • Check-in from07:00
  • Check-out until11:00
Getting around
  • Distance from city center10 km
  • Travel time to airport (minutes)90
Extras
  • Breakfast charge (unless included in room price)11 NZD
The property
  • Number of bars/lounges0
  • Number of floors0
  • Number of restaurants0
  • Number of rooms 10
  • Year property opened1998
  • Most recent renovation2017
Parking
  • Daily parking fee0 NZD

Reviews of The Sandcastle from real guests

Provided by verified guests of Agoda
8.2
/
10
Excellent
Cleanliness7.2
Facilities7.9
Location8.5
Service9.0
Value for money8.6
High score for Golden Bay
Rating
9+ Exceptional (6)
8-9 Excellent (5)
7-8 Very Good (5)
6-7 Good (2)
<6 Below Expectation (2)
Time of the year
Mar - May (2)
Jun - Aug (4)
Sep - Nov (5)
Dec - Feb (9)

Show reviews that mention 

Showing 20 verified guest comments
10.0
Exceptional
Felicity from New Zealand
Couple
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 1 night in July 2020

Great Value for Money ”

We just had a quick stay here, arrived when it was dark, around 5.30pm. Only downfall is that there was no one waiting at reception to check us in, and no one answering the phone numbers provided. We ended up knocking on a guests door who directed us to someone’s accomodation who could help us. Once we were in the room it was great. We were travelling with our dog and the grounds/accommodation were great for dogs, lots of space to walk around and just a quick walk to the beach. The room itself had everything you needed kitchenette, stovetop etc. The room was very clean and quiet. Would definitely stay again.

Reviewed July 28, 2020

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Many thanks for your fantastic review, the sandcastle is about peace and quiet, gardens, views and all on offer. love to see you again.

Responded August 07, 2020
The Sandcastle
10.0
Exceptional
Susan from New Zealand
Couple
Chalet 6 berth
Stayed 7 nights in January 2022

Fabulous dog friendly trip”

What a nice relaxing place to stay, where you have your own space including bathroom and kitchen, but also can mix with and have pizza nights with other guests. very relaxed vibe and Steve is a fabulous host, very friendly and helpful. Best of all, its dog friendly with a spacious front lawn to play on and just a few minutes walk down to the beach. We found lots of dog friendly reserves, beaches and water holes for our dog. Will absolutely stay again!!

Reviewed January 29, 2022

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Thank you Susan for a lovely review, you captured The Sandcastle. Do come stay again soon!

Responded February 15, 2022
The Sandcastle
10.0
Exceptional
Karen from New Zealand
Couple
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 1 night in January 2020

Exceptional”

love it here, something a little different, nice to know places like Sandcastles are here, Steve (owner) a cool guy,

Reviewed January 28, 2020

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Guess we try hard to be different but always providing good service. Thanks for a great review Steve

Responded February 24, 2020
The Sandcastle
9.2
Exceptional
Daphne from New Zealand
Couple
Chalet 6 berth
Stayed 6 nights in January 2020

Beautiful setting/great staff”

The cottages are in a beautiful, peaceful setting. The owner Steve is generous, friendly & helpful.

Reviewed January 16, 2020

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Thanks Daphne, It is often commented at the peace at the sandcastle. Many thanks for taking time to write a great review. Steve

Responded February 24, 2020
The Sandcastle
8.8
Excellent
Steve from New Zealand
Couple
Chalet 6 berth
Stayed 1 night in February 2020

Excellent Short Break”

Peaceful location. Close to beach & attractions. Excellent breakfast with fresh plum jam! Steve is a very helpful host

Reviewed February 15, 2020

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Great review thanks. MUch of our breakfast come off the site. Do return soon Steve

Responded February 24, 2020
The Sandcastle
8.0
Excellent
nicola from New Zealand
Family with young children
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 2 nights in June 2019

Rustic cottage with lovely rural location and Seaviews”

We took our 2 and 5 year old girls for a family weekend away. We found the cottage comfortable and warm. It had a fairly well equipped kitchen so we could self cater some of our meals. The cottage is a short (10 min) stroll to the Pohara beach, shop pubs and cafes. We think the sandcastles was great value for money and we will likely be back in summer for a stay!

Reviewed June 04, 2019

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Thank you so much for a great review, love to see again in the summer. We are very keen to keep it good value to give families a chance to have a holiday and enjoy Golden Bay. very best Steve

Responded June 12, 2019
The Sandcastle
8.8
Excellent
Rhonda from New Zealand
Family with young children
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 1 night in April 2022

Excellent”

Good lay back atmosphere, owner very helpful, value for money. Highly recommend for family.

Reviewed April 26, 2022

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8.4
Excellent
Julie-Ann from New Zealand
Couple
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 4 nights in November 2021

Back to Nature”

Perfectly positioned away from potential crowds, nestled within native trees with plenty of sheep and bird life. Basic cottage with everything needed. Clean linen and amenities.

Reviewed November 09, 2021

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Thank you for taking time to submit this lovely review.

Responded January 12, 2022
The Sandcastle
8.0
Excellent
Becky from New Zealand
Couple
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 1 night in April 2021

Great quiet place to stay”

We stayed here for one night, it is a lovely location and very quiet. Steve the owner was very friendly and helpful, nothing was too much trouble and he was very knowledgeable about the local area.

Reviewed May 03, 2021

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Many thanks for a great review. You seemed to capture what we do here!

Responded June 28, 2021
The Sandcastle
7.2
Very good
Paul from New Zealand
Family with young children
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 1 night in June 2020

Cheap and cheerful holiday spot”

Nice location up on the hill, peaceful. The cabins were a bit tired, they could do with some TLC. And they could benefit from better cleaning, the we're quite a few cobwebs. But we still enjoyed our stay. Great heater kept us warm in the winter chill. Steve the host was lovely. We plan to return

Reviewed June 22, 2020

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Thanks for the review, we are always upgrading but need to keep the essence of peace, garden sanctuary and friendliness. Steve

Responded August 07, 2020
The Sandcastle
5.6
sean from New Zealand
Couple
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 2 nights in February 2022

Above average”

The photos are flattering.

Reviewed February 14, 2022

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You stayed during a cyclone that covered all of New Zealand, the photos are not going to be the same. Thanks Sean, hope you enjoyed the wedding.

Responded February 15, 2022
The Sandcastle
2.8
Laurence from New Zealand
Group
Chalet 6 berth
Stayed 1 night in July 2020

Mice Feces Everywhere”

I do not recommend The Sandcastle. Upon our arrival, we were really disappointed with the facilities. The advertised spa was so out of service that plants had started growing on the cover, the pizza oven was full or rubbish, the sauna was unexistan

Reviewed August 06, 2020

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So sorry you couldn't engage with the essence of the sandcastle, peace and quiet, views, gardens and a certain quirkiness. I remember you sat in our home while we cooked pizza. Spa etc have not been operating for years. Not sure where you saw it advertised. Evidence of mice, sorry I have not seen this and other guests would have mentioned it but have not. Travel well, Steve

Responded August 07, 2020
The Sandcastle
9.6
Exceptional
Peter from New Zealand
Family with teens
Chalet 6 berth
Stayed 3 nights in October 2018

Exceptional”

the owner is a great host offering ideas of places to see and to cook pizzas for tea in their outdoor oven.

Reviewed November 01, 2018

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Yep we love meeting guests and cooking pizza. Thanks for the great review. Very best Steve

Responded June 12, 2019
The Sandcastle
8.8
Excellent
Katerina
Family with teens
Chalet 6 berth
Stayed 2 nights in January 2018

Excellent”

Charming chalets with a unique simple kiwi style, handmade furniture - simple but beautiful. Quite place with wonderful scenery around - loved it!

Reviewed January 29, 2018

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Thank you so much for taking time to review. We hope to continue to offer guests great holidays. Steve

Responded January 31, 2018
The Sandcastle
7.2
Very good
Ken from Australia
Family with teens
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 3 nights in February 2018

Very good”

The accommodation is a bit old and worn and the grounds are a bit overgrown. The owners were lovely and very helpful and it is in a good location to base yourself

Reviewed February 06, 2018

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Thanks Ken, Upgrading all kitchens this winter, we advertise as rustic and the cottages are built to blend into the countryside and gardens - creates a wonderful, relaxed, good value place to stay we believe. very best Steve

Responded June 12, 2019
The Sandcastle
9.6
Exceptional
Jorge from United Arab Emirates
Family with young children
Chalet - sleeps 6
Stayed 1 night in December 2022

Lots of charm”

Great place to stay with the family

Reviewed December 26, 2022

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Thank you, I enjoyed having you all stay

Responded March 20, 2023
The Sandcastle
6.8
Good
James from New Zealand
Couple
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 1 night in October 2022

cleanliness”

Loved the location and Steve was friendly and helpful. The only issues we had was a wee ant invasion in the kitchen and also found dog hair in the bathroom basin (weird) and long black hairs in several other places including the shower wall.

Reviewed October 25, 2022

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Always trying to improve and meet expectations. Thanks for the stay Steve

Responded March 20, 2023
The Sandcastle
6.8
Good
Sylke from Germany
Couple
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 2 nights in December 2018

Traumhaftes kleines Häuschen leider völlig verkommen”

Der Betreiber ist wirklich überaus nett und jederzeit ansprechbar. Die kleinen Häuschen liegen wunderschön in einer sehr gepflegten Grünanlage mit Blick auf die Bucht. Begrüßt wurden wir an unserer Türschwelle mit zwei riesengroßen Toten Kakerlaken. Im Haus befanden sich Spinnenweben , Schmutz, in den Betten hatte bereits jemand geschlafen. Das konnte man an den Liegeflächen sehen, wo die Leute gelegen haben. Die Bettdecken rochen muffig, das zweite Zimmer konnten wir gar nicht nutzen, da es noch gruseliger dreckig war. Das Bad war geflickt, keine Ablageflächen und schmutzig. Es war mir nicht bewusst, dass selfcontained Appartement bedeutet, dass man erstmal den Dreck der vormieter weg machen muss. Selbst Teller, Gläser, Besteck, Töpfe etc war schmutzig - es klebten essensreste daran. Schade, dass man eine so schöne Anlage so verkommen lässt...und das bei dem Mietpreis.

Reviewed December 29, 2018

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8.8
Excellent
YACHUN from Taiwan
Couple
Chalet
Stayed 1 night in November 2022

Great stay!”

房間很大,浴室熱水充足,房間內沒有吹風機,位置稍偏遠,適合有開車的旅遊者,附近海灘有機會看到blue penguins

Reviewed November 23, 2022

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Loved meeting, thank you for travelling so far to see us

Responded March 20, 2023
The Sandcastle
7.6
Very good
CHIA-YAO from Taiwan
Group
chalet 4 berth
Stayed 1 night in September 2016

房內設施有點舊,但服務態度很好”

不錯的地方

Reviewed September 22, 2016

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