Skip to main content
Apartment

Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea (Flat 2)

Photo gallery for Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea (Flat 2)

The old homestead
Lounge and enjoy the view
Best coffee spot in the Bay
Bay View 1929
Master bedroom

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • On the beach
    A rare beachfront property in the area - enjoy direct access to the sand and sea.
  • Steps from the shore
    Top-rated for its nearby beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Close to Bay of Islands Marina
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • On beach
  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio

Explore the area

View map
Opua, Opua
  • Place, Bay of Islands Marina
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Paihia Beach
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Paihia Wharf
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Kerikeri (KKE-Bay of Islands)
    ‪33 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom #2

2 Single Beds

Master bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea (Flat 2)

A Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea

This delightful two‑bedroom flat sits right on the Opua waterfront, blending old‑world character with modern comfort. The building itself was moved to this site in 1885 and is now a Heritage New Zealand–protected property, lovingly redecorated to honour its historic charm. Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, a cosy living space and an inviting outdoor seating area. Cool and breezy in summer, warm and snug in winter.

Wake to the sound of seagulls and sweeping views across the Bay. Opua is peaceful yet full of life—watch the ferry crossing, yachts moving through the harbour, and occasionally dolphins or orca passing by.

The flat sits directly across from the beach—step off the porch for a swim or join the Opua–Paihia coastal walkway. Bay View is just 100 metres from the car ferry and general store, with the marina and café a short stroll away. Paihia and Russell are only 5 km by road, and the Twin Coast Cycle Trail begins nearby.

Whether you’re after a relaxing escape or a base for exploring the Bay of Islands and the Far North, this is an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the water’s edge.

Please note: A separate upstairs apartment (Flat 5) sleeping up to 6 guests is also available.

Special Conditions:
• No smoking anywhere on the property — indoors or outdoors — due to the historic nature of the building
• No naked flames (including candles)
• No pets
• One vehicle per apartment in the carpark; additional parking available on the roadside nearby

Extras
Linen – included
Pair of sea kayaks – included

Add dates for prices

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Central Paihia.
Koru Cottage - Pristine and newly renovated.
Paihia
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (116 reviews)
Koru Cottage - Pristine and newly renovated.

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Very important because wooden historic building

Important information

You need to know

Property # 20018515
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
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

Opua

Located in Opua, this apartment is on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Bay of Islands and Tapeka Point Historic Reserve, while Russell Museum and Pompallier Mission are cultural highlights. Makana Chocolate Boutique and Action World are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and horse riding nearby.
View more Apartments in OpuaOpens in a new window
Map
Opua, Opua

What's nearby

  • Bay of Islands Marina - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Paihia Beach - 5 min drive - 6.6 km
  • Paihia Wharf - 6 min drive - 6.9 km
  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds - 15 min drive - 10.5 km
  • Russell Beach - 23 min drive - 11.0 km

Getting around

  • Kerikeri (KKE-Bay of Islands) - 26 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Charlotte's Kitchen - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Breeze Cafe - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Orange Frog - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Seaside - ‬19 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea (Flat 2) pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea (Flat 2)?

As of 29 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea (Flat 2) on 30 June 2026 start from AU$190, 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 Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea (Flat 2)?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea (Flat 2)?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea (Flat 2)?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Charming Beachfront Retreat at Bay View – Step Back in Time by the Sea (Flat 2) located?

Nestled on the beach, this Opua apartment building is within a 10-minute walk of Bay of Islands and Bay of Islands Marina. Makana Chocolate Boutique is 2.4 mi (3.9 km) away.

Reviews

9.8

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. 304 out of 335 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 27 out of 335 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 335 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 335 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 335 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely and quiet retreat.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

pippa s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice and clean, great location, hospitable hosts!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely well upgraded and maintained property. It was very clean and the perfect place to relax. Very much enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heidrun K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was exceptional.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Peter G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely perfect!!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent facility and support. We loved our week in Opua. Great location with access to so many special spots throughout Northland and the Bay of Islands. Thanks so much.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

DIANA C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful location close to the beach and a lovely coastal walk through the mangroves. Very welcoming property manager. Clean, well equipped kitchen and laundry facilities. Outdoor front porch overlooks the beach. Great shaded area at the back with seats, table and barbecue.Thank you. We really enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brett E.

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

A great place to stay in the Bay of islands

Really nice location right by the water, fantastic heritage building. Great hosts
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very well appointed, beautiful heritage cottage in a stunning location. 1 minute walk to shops, bistro and marina and handy to Paihia and Russell. Easy communication and lovely caretaker. We loved our time here.
View from the cottage
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alison G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved the view from the sitting room and bedroom.Great communication and a lovely welcome from Debbie.Very peaceful.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessi Z.

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

Great place to stay!

Excellent place to stay. Thanks for the hospitality
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Greg W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a fabulous host that welcomed us and made sure we had all the information required to have a great stay at this place. Simply fabulous with the nearly walks around the coast, the close shop/club amenities, ferry to Russel. I aim to be back one day for a much longer stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

C F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely spot
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alan Y.

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

Great accommodation in a great location.

The flat was very comfortable and in a great spot on the edge of the bay - walking distance to the local shop and the sailing club for a bite to eat.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

KARREN H.

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

A beautiful property in a superb location.

I can highly recommend this property. We have stayed here numerous times and it never disappoints.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erica L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful, really clean and comfortable. Very well set up, definitely a special place and we had a wonderful stay. Highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Sandra Lisa R.

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

Wonderful Bay of Islands visit

Wonderful place to stay, so much to do in the area. Wonderful restaurant to walk to Great Pizza take away, at General Store
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark W.

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

Beautiful waterfront historical character home

It was amazing to stay in this piece of history in the Bay of Islands. The stay was awesome, thank you!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Yes abd yes. Both were great
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Santhosh G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Warm and friendly host, tastefully appointed apartment with lots of character, incredible views, all the mod-cons e.g. Miele dishwasher. Setting off on a kayak virtually from our front door was magical.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robyn L.

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

Great base to explore Northland

Had a lovely break with a mix of exploring and relaxing. The flat was perfect, great views & peaceful
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristen N.

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

Great spot

We enjoyed our stay and would choose it again if in the area. Relaxing, nice walks, lots to do in the area and great hosts!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was fabulous
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pleasantly surprised how warm, roomy, comfortable this property was. We loved it.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christopher R.

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

Holiday stop for 5 nights

Loved the whole place
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2024

About the host

Hosted by Delwyn Barnett

Host profile image
I am a mother to five grown children and also a grandmother. I live in Taranaki, New Zealand. Interests are family, travel, gardening, pets and photography.

Why they chose this property

Although I put the year purchased as 1885, this obviously is not when I purchased the property, but when my great grandparents moved the building to its current location at Opua. It was run by my great-grandmother, then my grandmother after that as a boarding house. In 1967 my uncles divided the property into five separate apartments, three of which I now own. My hope is that my children too will keep this property, maintain and value it as I do.

What makes this property unique

I love the history, especially the family history attached to this old homestead and the Opua area.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback