The best things to do in Waiheke definitely involve beaches, wine, food, sports, nature and outdoor activities, culture and art. Waiheke Island is a Pacific gem near Auckland, New Zealand, blessed with stunning landscapes and abundant life.
To have a better idea of what to do on this breathtaking piece of land, you should first consider how many days you will have to stay in Waiheke. Rest assured, no matter if you’re coming for a couple of days or a long trip, you will have plenty of options to create the perfect itinerary and have the best vacation.
It might be just a quick couples getaway with your loved one or a number of days and nights filled with amusement and relaxation. So, without further ado, find out now some of the best things to do on Waiheke Island!
Each traveller has their own taste when it comes to finding the best things to do in Waiheke. Some will go straight to a boutique winery, while others might prefer just to relax and enjoy the calmness of a private beach.
The best thing about Waiheke is how the island caters to all visitors, from the ones who are searching for an adventure to the couples and individuals who are looking for some time to unwind. If you’re looking for something more specific, check the links below for dedicated information on couples retreats on Waiheke Island, as well as a honeymoon destination and anniversary getaways.
For a general view of the best things to do on Waiheke Island, carry on reading to discover something to your taste!
We could not possibly start a list of the best things to do in Waiheke without one of the greatest wonders Omana has to offer. Our 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of the island offers access to a private beach, only a short walk from our luxury villas.
Arrive at your spacious and luxurious Waiheke accommodation and admire the stunning views that will surround you throughout a well-deserved break from daily life. After setting in, pick up an exclusive beach bag in your closet, and you’re more than ready to explore the area.
Within a 10-minute trail walk or 5-minute drive, you’ll discover the sand, the sounds and touch of the waves.
Grab your favourite book and seize your own or your loved one’s company, just before you prepare to dip in Woodside Bay waters. Feel replenished and restored to move on to the next best thing to do in Waiheke.
If you’re considering solo travel in New Zealand, Waiheke Island will welcome you with open arms. A luxury villa with an ocean view offers you the so-much needed respite from the mundane.
If your plan is to rekindle love, there are a number of destinations around the world that are super inviting for couples, and Waiheke is certainly one of them. Daily routine sure can keep us away from our hearts and our loved ones. No wonder this island is a haven for couples to reconnect with each other, celebrate a special moment or spend their anniversary getaway near Auckland.
There are wonderful romantic things to do in Waiheke, but the best of them is to feel a restored deep connection between you two. Not only a sumptuous, heavenly bed awaits you in our luxury villas, but also a range of exclusive services:
Waiheke is known for its award-winning wines, so a wine tour is a must-do during your stay. To set the mood, you will discover that Omana’s neighbour is the verdant Destiny Bay vineyard. Although they only organise limited tastings, it sure makes our surrounds incredibly special.
As we love tailoring experiences, we offer bespoke tastings with some of our partners, such as Te Rere, a boutique, family-owned vineyard in Church Bay.
Rely on the convenience of our private driver service and discover other nearby wineries:
Even if you are not a fan of alcoholic beverages, you will discover wine tours as one of the best things to do in Waiheke. There are over 30 boutique wineries on the island, and many blessed with delicious restaurants.
A date to discover the island’s tastes is certainly on the list of the best things to do in Waiheke. Start by tasting local deep-flavoured olives and olive oil as appetizers, then move on to fresh oysters and continue to your full meal journey in a local restaurant.
Go on a Tapas style journey at Casita Miro or have a feast at Poderi Crisci. Waiheke is prepared for all tastes.
For a more intimate experience, stay put in the cosiness of your villa and order from Omana’s exclusive menu:
Driving in style around Waiheke Island is possible through our partnership for luxury vehicle rental. Pickup and return can be made at Auckland International/National Airports, only a short distance from SeaLink car ferry (Hamer Street or Half Moon Bay).
The car ferry ride from Auckland to Waiheke Island takes an average of a mere 60 minutes. For your convenience and peace of mind, Omana has a dedicated car park with EV charger.
You can discover a great part of Waiheke when riding a bike. Bring your own on the ferry from Auckland, or rent a bike once you arrive to feel the joy of cycling around the island.
There are trails for adventurous couples and individuals, just as well as peaceful rides, for you to calmly meet the wonderful nature that has blessed this piece of land.
Around Waiheke, you will find an art trail that will lead you to one of the most visual and sensorial experiences. From open-air art to galleries, artists have made a true commitment to filling the island with beauty and flair.
Alison Park is home to remarkable sculptures, as the Waiheke Community Art Gallery and many others share a variety of expressions of art.
As great enthusiasts, we have carefully selected beautiful work for our villas on Waiheke Island. Villa Joy hosts the beautiful birds from TOI Gallery.
Walks and hikes are among the best things to do in Waiheke, to be enjoyed as a romantic getaway or even on a mindfulness walk retreat with a friend.
Also, exploring Waiheke’s waters is one of the most fun and relaxing things you can do on your holiday. Go on a kayak or stand-up paddle and find amazing views from the sea. There are guided kayaking tours that will take you to precious spots for swimming.
If walking up immersed in nature and to a stunning ocean view wasn’t relaxing enough, Omana offers special yoga and wellness retreats for couples, a pair of friends and individuals. These are wonderful opportunities to replenish and rejuvenate your spirit.
Discover the best things to do in Waiheke and choose your personal favourites on your next getaway. Plan a trip to restore and replenish your body and soul, alongside your loved one.
Besides the passenger and car ferry options from Auckland, helicopter flights to Waiheke Island make your arrival even more special, with stunning views along the way. Within instants, you will be immersed in nature, surrounded by beauty and reconnected with life.
For a more exclusive and memorable experience, your best bet is going for luxury accommodation with a private beach on Waiheke Island.
