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Private Oceanview Escape Above the Beach

Photo gallery for Private Oceanview Escape Above the Beach

Large deck to sit and enjoy the beach, eat al fresco or star gaze
Relax with a wine on our outside deck or lawn.
The cottage looking up from the beach.
The bedroom ceilings have the original tongue and groove lining.
Spacious living

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedroomsSleeps 265 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View map
Baylys Beach, Northland
  • Place, The Woodturners Kauri Gallery and Studio
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Dargaville Museum
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Place, Taha Awa Riverside Gardens
    ‪13 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bunk Bed

Bathroom 1

Soap · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen

About this property

Private Oceanview Escape Above the Beach


Wake to sweeping ocean views and the soothing sound of waves below at Mawhiti Cottage, a secluded coastal retreat perched high above Northland's West Coast shoreline and designed for complete relaxation.

At night, fall asleep to the gentle rhythm of the ocean and wake to the sight of the sea stretching to the horizon.

'Mawhiti' is the Māori word for 'escape', and it perfectly captures the spirit of this special seaside hideaway. From the moment you arrive, the outside world feels wonderfully distant. Days unfold slowly with sea breezes drifting across the deck, while evenings bring spectacular sunsets that wash the horizon in colour.

Start your morning with coffee on the sun-drenched deck as the ocean sparkles below, spend your afternoons exploring the surrounding coastline, or simply settle into the peaceful rhythm of sea and sky. As dusk arrives, the deck becomes the perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine while the sun sinks into the ocean and the sound of the waves drifts up from the beach.

The surrounding coastline is beautifully raw and unspoiled, where fresh sea air and coastal breezes create a setting that feels both invigorating and restorative, an authentic seaside experience that many guests find deeply refreshing.

For those who wish to remain connected, the retreat is equipped with fibre-optic internet, making it easy to work remotely. Many guests enjoy setting up their laptop on the deck and working with one of the most inspiring views imaginable.

Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate the location, with the Northern Wairoa Golf Club just minutes away, offering both 9-hole and 18-hole rounds at very reasonable green fees. Golf carts are also available to hire.

We are delighted to share this much-loved coastal retreat with guests seeking peace, space, and a memorable escape by the sea.


Important information to note before booking:

• The nightly rate is based on two guests, which is our preferred occupancy.

• Guests are asked to bring their own linen. Pillows and duvets are provided.

• Mawhiti Cottage operates an eco-friendly wastewater system that uses natural worms and microorganisms to safely process waste. To help protect the surrounding coastal environment, guests are kindly asked to use eco-friendly personal products only during their visit.

• Access to the retreat is via a short grassy path, which may be slippery when wet. Guests with mobility concerns may wish to take this into consideration.

• There are currently some building materials stored on the grounds, which should not interfere with your enjoyment of the property.

• Smoking is not permitted at Mawhiti Cottage.

• Unfortunately, pets cannot be accommodated.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Please bring in the green deck chairs. Fold the wooden chairs and store under the table.
Pull all blinds down as you leave
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

Frequently asked questions

Is Private Oceanview Escape Above the Beach pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Private Oceanview Escape Above the Beach?

As of 1 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Oceanview Escape Above the Beach on 31 May 2026 start from NZ$181, 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 Private Oceanview Escape Above the Beach?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Private Oceanview Escape Above the Beach?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Private Oceanview Escape Above the Beach?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Private Oceanview Escape Above the Beach located?

Nestled on the beach, this Baylys Beach cottage is within 9 mi (15 km) of The Woodturners Kauri Gallery and Studio, Taha Awa Riverside Gardens and Dargaville Museum. Kai Iwi Lakes and Trounson Kauri Park are also within 32 miles (52 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 47 out of 58 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 58 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 58 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 58 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 58 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A lovely bach in a gorgeous location, and great communications from the host. Couldn’t have asked for more and we’d definitely like to return!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 8 January 2026
I’m so glad that you enjoyed your stay, Susi and am happy to hear that it was a restful break to welcome in 2026. The location really doesn’t get much better to sooth the soul. I look forward to welcoming you again soon.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alan J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sandra our hostess was very friendly and helpful. The cottage is wonderful. It was recently renovated to make it comfortable and modern. The views of the beach & ocean are spectacular.Baylys Beach is a great little seaside town and it’s close to Dargaville.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 27 January 2026
It was a pleasure to host you, Alan. I'm glad you got to experience and enjoy Mawhiti Cottage and the glorious views. I enjoyed our exchanges, and I would love to host you again. Safe travels for the rest of your stay in NZ!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amelia W.

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

Great stay

Great property, wonderful view and such a cute little cabin.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 9 February 2023
So lovely to host you, Amelia, please come again soon- you would be most welcome!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Madeline R.

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

Beautiful & cosy cottage

Loved staying here thank you.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 23 September 2024
I am so glad that you enjoyed your stay, Madeline. Please come again, I would love to host you for another relaxing weekend getaway!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Travis P.

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

Perfect location

Excellent communication, great location and amazing views!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 6 January 2025
It was a pleasure to host you, Travis. You are right- the views are amazing, I never get tired of watching the waves, and listening to them roll in. I hope that you will have the opportunity to stay again, you would be most welcome.
Verified

8/10 Good

Alison L.

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

Amazing location

A Wild West hideaway yet close to a town and Kai iwi
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 January 2025
Yes, handy to both! Thank you for coming to stay at Blackbeard’s Cottage 😊
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul R.

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

Beautiful beach

We had an Awesome time away - thanks
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 11 March 2024
Great to hear that you had a wonderful stay, Paul- it is a magical place! I hope that you are able to come again- you would be most welcome :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Josie S.

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

Happy guests!

My guests loved their stay - thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 5 November 2023
I'm so glad to hear that. Your guests are welcome anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Louise M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Kitchen was more tha well equipt with Bosch appliances and beautiful dinnerwear and cuttlery . Very good sharp knives and plenty of pots and pans plus servingware. The bed was very comfortable in bedroom with beautiful views of the ocean. Beautiful bathroom. Of course the jewel of the crown was the magnificent view of Baylys Beach with all her personalities of a west coast beach. Sandra was a wonderful host and I highly recommend this slice of heaven at anytime of the year.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 November 2025
Thank you for your review, Louise. It is always wonderful when guests fall in love with our cottage as we have. To us also, it is a magical place, one that we yearn to return to when we are away from it. I hope that you will come again, it was a pleasure to host you.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth T.

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

Baylys beach

Great views, nice artwork, very cozy.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 16 January 2023
It was so lovely to host you Elizabeth. Thank you for noticing the art work- they are all pieces chosen especially for the cottage and we love them. One local artist's work in there as well. I hope that you will make it back soon to enjoy the great views again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy A.

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

Cosy little spot

Epic views amazing beach A place to enjoy the simple things of life. Great place to reser.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2024
I'm so glad that you enjoyed your stay Tracy. We live in a busy city so it is always refreshing to leave it all behind and just 'be' at the cottage. I hope that you will come again, it was a pleasure to host you.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Neil H.

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

Relaxing stay

As advertised, beautiful veiws in the classic kiwi batch, with everything you need to enjoy a beach holiday. I highly recommend this property 👌
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 3 November 2022
Dear Neil, it was a pleasure to host you. I am so glad that you enjoyed your stay and especially the beautiful sunsets. I hope that you can come and stay again, it would be a pleasure to host you once more!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Edward W.

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

Good stay

Good batch, nice views.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 July 2024
It was a pleasure to host you, Ed. I hope you can stay again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wade J.

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

Beach Bach

Great stay. Amazing view.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 February 2023
It was great to host you Wade. I'm glad that we could work around the weather events to ensure that you were able to come when it was safe for you to do so. We just love the view too- it never gets old! I hope that you can come again, it would be a pleasure to welcome you again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kaye H.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Blackbeards Cottage

Adorable batch everything there we needed, had a lovely time
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 26 January 2024
It was a pleasure to host you, Kaye. I hope that you can come back again some time for another stay!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katy S.

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

Cute bach with great view

Lovely little cottage. Thanks for a lovely stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 December 2022
Thanks, Katy- it was lovely to host you and I hope that you will come again.
Verified

8/10 Good

Sandra L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

West Coast

Thumbs up, loved the location.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 February 2025
Thank you for staying at Blackbeard's Cottage, Sandra. It was a pleasure to host you and I hope that you will come again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janine M.

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

Stunning

Weekend break before the xmas maddness - absolutely stunning cottage overlooking the ocean
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 December 2024
I'm so glad that you enjoyed your stay, Janine. I hope the walks were invigorating and the fishing was good! Love to welcome you back to Blackbeard'S Cottage anytime!
Verified

8/10 Good

Leon V.

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

Stunning

What a view, place is nice and clean. Waht more can you ask best choice ever will definately book it again.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 28 November 2024
You are so right, Leon, that view cannot be beat! I'm glad that you had a great stay, and I look forward to welcoming you again soon.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mike L.

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

Quintessential Kiwi Bach

Lovely views over to the beach, and everything you need for a peacefull stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 18 February 2024
Glad that you enjoyed your stay, Mike. Fingers crossed for winds in the right direction for your blokart adventures down the beach on your next stay!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa M.

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

Lovely bach close to the beach

We enjoyed our stay, this was our second time staying at this bach. Highly recommended if you want a classic kiwi bach experience. It has everything you need for a weekend away.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 December 2023
It was an absolute pleasure to host you again, Lisa. Thanks for the photo of the snapper- it inspired us to think about taking up fishing! I look forward to hosting you again next year. Till then, Merry Christmas and I trust 2024 will be a wonderful year for you both.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sabine A.

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

Great spot!

I had a wonderful stay there. The view from the cottage is just breathtaking. The cottage is a really great Bach, cosy and cute. Highly recommended!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 April 2023
So glad that you had wonderful stay, Sabine! The view is amazing- we never tire of just watching and listening to the ocean. It is a constant there, and, it wraps around you like a hug. Please come again, you were a delight to host.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Edward W.

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

nice time

nice time
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 August 2024
Great to host you again, Ed. You are welcome back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Perfect spot on the beach

Can't get any closer to the beach. Please is big enough, had everything, with an amazing view.
Stayed 16 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 November 2024
I'm so glad you and your family had a great stay, Mike. It really is a wonderful location with a superb view, and I'm glad you got to enjoy it. Thank you for being a great guest, and I hope that you can visit Blackbeard's Cottage again soon.
Verified

8/10 Good

Trish F.

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

Stay on the wild west coast

We had a lovely time revisiting the west coast. The batch was everything we could have asked for
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

About the host

Hosted by Sandra Webster

Host profile image
Blackbeard’s Cottage was bought sight unseen when we lived in Hong Kong. It was quite some time before we got to see it in person, and although in poor condition, we loved it immediately. We have slowly worked to make improvements, and are just about there, with just the exterior landscaping and some exterior painting to complete. As we do not currently live in NZ, this is a slow process!

Why they chose this property

Only one word to answer the 'why this property' question- "location". The views make you feel as though you are one with the beach, and in fact, the constant presence of sand in the cottage confirms this!
Check out this article about the area:
https://www.silverkris.com/inspiration/nature-adventure/beaches/the-offbeat-charms-of-new-zealands-ripiro-beach/?fbclid=IwAR0Z4AuaU1WEn0zP8a8TArOWvU8uShEX4jbqu5uXEOSVXFfHkv_HfVSNcrM

What makes this property unique

The joy of the location of the cottage, the views, the sunset, the thrill of the wind, the serenity and peace of going to sleep listening to the waves cannot be underestimated
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