Award-winning, luxury beachfront accommodation in Hokitika.

Drifting Sands

Welcome to Drifting Sands, a beautiful collision of luxury and nostalgia. An airbnb with more than a touch of whimsy, absolute beach front with amazing sunsets, we are located in the heart of the cool little town, Hokitika, on the untamed west coast of New Zealand.

est.

2013

Vacationer, explorer or avid traveller, Drifting Sands is your home away from home with a fabulous beachfront to relax and unwind. A perfect base for your west coast adventures with amazing beds, an infinity beach garden and the perfect combination of luxury and nostalgia.


Drifting Sands

6 guests | 3 bedrooms | 3 beds | 2 baths

The sunset on our front lawn will take your breath away as it lights up the sky and sets slowly into the Tasman Sea. After dark stroll to the glow-worm dell, light a bonfire in the fire pit or sink into our stargazing hot tub under the milky way.

To see more photos and read about the many amenities at Drifting Sands, please click the button below.

absolute beachfront

“Wow! Without a doubt the best Airbnb I have stayed in. The house is gorgeous and well cared for, so many beautiful and thoughtful touches at every point. I have never felt more welcome and comfortable. Drifting Sands is a truly rare gem and worth every minute spent there.”

— Brandon, Airbnb, January 2023


Founded as a gold mining town back in the gold-rush days, Hokitika is famous for its pounamu (greenstone), it's mining history, and it's sparsely populated wild scenery. For a list of suggested itineraries in and around Hokitika, check out this list.

Hokitika & Nearby

The vibrant, milky turquoise colour of the water here is due to the fact it is glacial fed and full of 'rock flour'.

Everything You Need