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Drifting Sands... a beachfront wonderland, private, an untamed and magical playground

Photo gallery for Drifting Sands... a beachfront wonderland, private, an untamed and magical playground

Two people in a hot tub with a view of the ocean at sunset.
Outdoor dining
A bedroom with a tufted headboard, a large bed with multiple pillows, a fur throw, and a glass table with chairs.
Enjoy a soak in the hot tub surrounded by coastal plantings and lantern lights. A favourite spot at Drifting Sands.
Sunset Suite - soft linen, garden views, and a cozy queen bed for a restful night.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • On beach
  • Spa pool on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Dogs and cats allowed
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine

Explore the area

View map
Hokitika, West Coast

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Office
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Drifting Sands... a beachfront wonderland, private, an untamed and magical playground

Whether you're reconnecting with family, celebrating with friends, or seeking your next great adventure, Drifting Sands becomes your own beachfront sanctuary on the West Coast – where the majestic Southern Alps meet endless coastline, just a five-minute walk from charming Hokitika. A delightful blend of luxury and nostalgia awaits. Thoughtfully designed with hotel-grade mattresses, sumptuous linens and beautiful dinnerware – plus your own private sunset beach studio and expansive stargazing spa.

We're just an email or message away if you need any assistance during your stay. Our team stays busy managing multiple properties, so for the quickest response, please contact us through the reservation platform where you made your booking rather than calling by phone.

We're here to help make your stay just fabulous!

Beachfront at its best. Some of the best sunsets in the world on your front lawn. Minutes from town and some amazing lakes within a 30min drive.

Enjoy the stunning beach garden with breathtaking ocean views from gorgeous private nooks throughout the property. Immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings and relax in the spa with the beach and waves just metres from your door.

With convenient keyless entry and off-street parking, you'll feel completely at home in this design-led peaceful retreat.

For larger groups or extended stays, Host’d offers 13 other beach retreats. Please reach out to discuss how we can help you find the perfect accommodation for your vacation.

Thoughtfully designed with hotel-grade mattresses, sumptuous linens and beautiful dinnerware – plus your own private sunset beach studio and expansive stargazing spa pool.

Create a beachfront feast in our fully equipped kitchen and dine in style in the sunset studio. Watch breathtaking sunsets paint the Tasman Sea from your front lawn, then sink into the spa under the Milky Way. Explore the magical glow worm dell, or gather around a crackling bonfire on the beach. Our carefully curated Guest Manual reveals all our favourite local gems and adventures for an unforgettable experience.

Leave fully rested, rejuvenated and ready for your onward journey. You'll discover why one night is never enough.

This is Drifting Sands.

Drifting Sands is only 5 mins drive in a car or taxi from Hokitika airport.
From Christchurch - It is a 3.5 hour stunning drive over the Alps through Arthur"s Pass.
From Nelson - It is a 5 hour drive along an amazing coastal road.
From Queenstown - It is a 7 hour drive through ever changing scenery.



Pet Friendly Policy

We absolutely welcome well-behaved dogs and understand the joy of travelling with your furry companion. We ask that pets are quiet, sleep on their own beds and please stay off our furniture and linens. Please remember to note your pet on your reservation so we can allow extra time for deep cleaning after your stay.

Experience the Best of New Zealand.

Come and stay to experience the best New Zealand has to offer. From breathtaking ocean views to the cozy comforts of our thoughtfully designed spaces, every detail is here to help you unwind and connect with the beauty of the West Coast.

Many of our guests have shared that "one night is never enough" - a sentiment that has become our Host'd signature. We invite you to discover why and come turn your ‘moments into memories’.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 25 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 20016931
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 12
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Hokitika

Located in Hokitika, this holiday home is on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Glowworm Dell and Hokitika Beach, while Te Waipounamu Maori Heritage Centre and Hokitika Museum are cultural highlights. National Kiwi Centre and The Gold Room are also worth visiting.
View more Holiday homes in HokitikaOpens in a new window
Map
Hokitika, West Coast

Getting around

  • Hokitika (HKK) - 9 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Stumpers Bar & Reasturant - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Hokitika Townchip - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Fat Pipi Pizza - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Cafe 39 - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Subway - ‬9 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Drifting Sands... a beachfront wonderland, private, an untamed and magical playground pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 25 kg per pet.

How much does it cost to stay at Drifting Sands... a beachfront wonderland, private, an untamed and magical playground?

As of 16 Aug 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Drifting Sands... a beachfront wonderland, private, an untamed and magical playground on 23 Aug 2026 start from AU$469, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Drifting Sands... a beachfront wonderland, private, an untamed and magical playground?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Drifting Sands... a beachfront wonderland, private, an untamed and magical playground?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Drifting Sands... a beachfront wonderland, private, an untamed and magical playground?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Drifting Sands... a beachfront wonderland, private, an untamed and magical playground located?

Nestled on the beach, this Hokitika holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Hokitika Beach, National Kiwi Centre and The Gold Room. Hokitika Glass Studio and Westland Greenstone Ltd are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 41 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 41 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 41 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bogdan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Stay in Hokitika

We had a great stay at Drifting Sands over New Year’s. It was the perfect place for a group of 12 people across 3 generations to ring in the New Year. Truly felt like the NZ Bach experience, and with excellent comforts!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Apr 2020
Wonderful Bogdan, So glad you enjoyed the property just as it was designed to be enjoyed. Happy 2020 and welcome back should you every wish to spend time on our gorgeous coast again :)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bill V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beauty by the sea

Excellent home, right on the beach .. Big comfy beds and great amenities.. Thank you so much for the home cooked breakfast Clair, we weren't expecting that !
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2020
Verified review

8/10 Good

Peter M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing and peaceful

Hokitika is a great place to stay. This house has the advantage of being a easy walking distance to shops and having the beach on your back doorstep. Blessed to have perfect weather to enjoy sitting on the back lawn, eating at the dining table on the beach, gorgeous sunsets and beach walks.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Feb 2022
Wonderful to have you and the family and the puppy come and stay Peter. Thank you for the glowing review and we look forward to welcoming you back again one day.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Devon G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bursting with character!

This place is so special. An absolute gem! Claire was a perfect host. Will definitely be back!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 May 2021
Thank you so much for coming to stay! So glad you had and awesome stay and can't wait to welcome you back again one day!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sue J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Drifting Sands

An amazing place full of original items and everything we could want. Right on the beach
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

SebastianF

Amazing house with a lot of love for the detail and an amazing view

Amazing house with a lot of love for the detail and an amazing view! Definitely worth every penny! The sunset in front of a private bondfire and whirlpool was amazing. (only downside: no heating available - during the night it got a bit cold...; electric heaters would have been nice :) )
Verified review

8/10 Good

Margaret R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Eclectic Decorating

Drifting Sands has lovely access directly to the beach with views. Claire repurposes much in building materials and natural resources to create a unique space. The kitchen was well equipped. Claire is very available to answer questions or offer suggestions on what to see. She lives right upstairs so if home, she is there. The bathrooms are not en-suite and one is a bit away from the bedroom and lacks shelving. We had a delightful time and enjoyed it there.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Aaron S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Second stay. Same great experience.

This is a great property and Claire is a fantastic host. Our group has stayed here twice now and it will be our preferred accommodation next time. I would highly recommend this property when visiting Hokitika.
Stayed 1 night in May 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Vicki C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved our stay

Was easy and an amazing place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Hana L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hokitika Beach front at it’s best!

Wow, Drifting Sands is a hidden gem on the beach at Hokitika. Claire is an amazing, generous host who goes out of her way to make sure you have the most relaxing, enjoyable, comfortable time in Hokitika. She was so helpful recommending cool local adventures to go on (when we were rained in for a day). From when we arrived with the fresh, warm raisin bed with homemade preserves, to taking our friends to see their first ever glow worms just up the road, to recommending the best Sunday night muso session at the Woodstock hotel, comfortable beds, good kitchen and a cosy coal fire after a day’s biking, you have to experience it to believe it! The big brazier on the beach with the seating and long table meant we had a Wild West coast beach fire and enjoyed a divine sunset. The outdoor bath with a view another highlight, private with the sound of surf and nature, was pure outdoor bliss. I cannot recommend this place highly enough especially with Coco the puppy and Hunter the cat. The best West Coast hospitality you can ask for :-). Thank you Claire, Coco and Hunter for a perfect long weekend.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Graeme R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beach Retreat

Quirky artwork and attention to detail with a home away from home feel. The beach is right on the doorstep. You can wine and dine on the amazing outdoor table and snuggle up around the brazier after stargazing from the heated outside tub. An easy walk to cafes and restaurants and a short car ride to the magnificent Buller Gorge and Treetop Walk. We came away knowing we will definitely be back :-)
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Apr 2021
Thank you so much for the wonderful review - it was an absolute pleasure to host you all and I can't wait to welcome you back one day. Thank you for enjoying Drifting Sands just the way it was designed to be enjoyed.
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Kay W.

Liked: Communication, location

Stay

Enjoyed our stay house wasn’t quite what I expected but we had a nice fire on the beach which was great
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Drifting Sands, Hokitika

Excellent location right on the beach and a short walk from town. The owner was very friendly and helpful and provided fresh bread and lemon honey as a welcome gift. We all enjoyed our stay and look forward to returning.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Nov 2020
Thank you so much for the awesome review. It was an absolute pleasure to meet you all and host you in my wee wonderland. So glad you enjoyed the treats and look forward to welcoming you back one day :)
Verified review

8/10 Good

Kris H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One night stay

We really enjoyed our family stay at Drifting Sands. Claire was amazing She’s very warm, bubbly and friendly nothing was a problem. The property was very tidy and situated in an ideal spot close to town and right on the beach front. The homemade fruit bread was a nice bonus to wake up to in the morning!! Will be back 😊
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Nov 2020
Thank you kindly for the awesome review Kris. It was fabulous to host you and the family and look forward to welcoming you all back again one day :)
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dave W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome Place

Great property and a very welcoming host, will definitely stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Nov 2020
Thanks Dave, it was awesome to host you all at Drifting Sands. Thanks for taking time to share a great review and I look forward to the welcoming you all again next time.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amanda D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Girls weekend away

We had a blast the place was awesome and Claire was so welcoming and friendly we would definitely recommend and stay again
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020
From a partner site

8/10 Good

Backs onto beach and plenty to do in Hokitika

Backs onto beach and plenty to do in Hokitika
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

David S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely waterfront residence

We only spent one night but thoroughly enjoyed this funky spot.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Matt N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wild West gem

A classic kiwi home with a tonne of character .
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Charmaine K.

Family time

Drifting Sands was an excellent opportunity for my family to spend quality time together. The owner Claire was very welcoming and provided good knowledge of Hokitika and family activities The accommodation was well equipped and spacious The beach was easy to access and provided opportunity for the children to run off some energy as well as a place for the adults to relax in such a beautiful space. Hokitika had plenty to offer for families such as eel feeding and live kiwi at the National Kiwi Centre, swing bridge at Hokitika Gorge, the Treetop Walk, a Glow worm dell, plus gold mining areas to explore.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2019
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Blackwood L.

Loved the welcome of freshly baked bread and spreads

Loved the welcome of freshly baked bread and spreads. Rooms and beds were very cosy and comfortable and the cottage has a lot of character. Our members enjoyed the hot tub outside, access to the beach and the lovely friendly cat.
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Terri V.

Fantastic location right beside the beach.

Fantastic location right beside the beach. wonderful to walk through the back yard to have peaceful walks gathering stones and driftwood. The house is spacious and everything is there for your comfort. It is an easy walk to town or supermarket.
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

Tamara M.

The property was out of this world.

The property was out of this world. Totally gorgeous and comfortable for 3 generations of our family. A real highlight of our South Island adventure
Archival

8/10 Good

Angelika P.

The house as a very unique and.

The house as a very unique and. cosy atmosphere, there are signs of TLC all over the place, be it decoration, shelves or dishes. And best if all are the beds: they are soooo comfy, it was almost hard to fet up in the morning :-) Thanks Claire fir creating such a lovely place. We like ve coming back and enjoying your house again!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Jessica J.

We really enjoyed our stay.

We really enjoyed our stay. The house was comfortable and perfect for a larger group. We loved the fun decor and the open plan kitchen/dining area. The location was great.

About the host

Hosted by Drifting Sands Beachfront Retreat

Host profile image
My greatest passion is in sharing my wonderland and the mind blowing West Coast that has stolen my heart with you.

What makes this property unique

This is what I call real beachfront living. Bonfire, outdoor bath and Sunsets to die for!

Languages:

English
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