Things to do

Outdoor activities on Waiheke Island: Best tours for a memorable summer

Thursday, December 21, 2023

Things to do
Outdoor activities on Waiheke Island: Best tours for a memorable summer
Updated on:
Oct 28, 2025 7:16 AM

Summer is coming! And there’s no better place to experience it than Waiheke Island, the perfect spot for outdoor activities. Nestled in the enchanting Hauraki Gulf, just a short ferry ride or helicopter flight from Auckland, Waiheke stands as a haven of tranquillity, a sanctuary of natural beauty, as well as a playground if you are seeking adventure.

During the summer months, Waiheke Island becomes even more special for connecting with nature. This is a place where sun-kissed beaches meet verdant hills, and where the gentle rhythm of island life beckons you to slow down and reconnect with yourself – and with your loved one, if you are coming with a partner.

What's summer like on Waiheke Island?

The generous embrace of the sun awaits you here at this magical getaway destination. Summer on Waiheke Island is a symphony of warm embrace and refreshing respite. The average temperature ranges from 22-28°C (72-82°F), making it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Days are long and sunny, inviting you to explore the island's many beaches, each with its unique charm. From the secluded coves of Little Palm Beach to the lively shores of Oneroa Beach, there's a beach to suit every desire.

Waiheke Island is only a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland

Top outdoor activities on Waiheke Island

Have you packed your bags yet? Wait no longer because you’re about to experience something amazing. And, for a more unique experience, you will discover the exclusive tours Omana Boutique Hotel offers guests.

Beach hopping (including a private beach)

Don’t know which beach to choose? Why pick one when you can have the best of them all? Embrace the island's coastal beauty by embarking on a beach-hopping adventure. 

Wander along the sandy expanse of Onetangi Beach, where the waves gently lap against the shore. If staying at our luxury accommodation on Waiheke Island, discover hidden gems like a private beach at Woodside Bay, a secluded cove with a rocky shoreline.

Omana guests have access to a private beach on Waiheke Island

For a bespoke experience, Omana beach tours include:

  • Scenic island drive: Two hours of a coastal drive from Oneroa to Onetangi, as well as other requests from guests.
  • Bush & beach walk: A day filled with fabulous coastal views, seabird nesting grounds and lush forest trails will make this an adventure to remember.

Hikes and walks

Waiheke Island boasts a network of hiking trails that wind through native forests, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and the Hauraki Gulf.

Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll with your loved one or a challenging climb, there's a trail to suit every fitness level. For more information about them, check out this article: Walks in Waiheke: 5 best hikes and tracks.

As well as the bush & beach walk mentioned above, other exclusive tours available are:

  • Tunnels, wine & dine tour: A day exploring Stoney Batter tunnels, Man O' War Kulta wine tasting, followed by lunch, Waiheke Distilling gin and vodka tasting.
  • Nature & ceramics tour: A day of hiking the Whakanewha Nikau Trail, olive oil tasting, lunch & wine tasting, ceramics/pottery hands-on experience.
  • Waiheke history & heritage tour: Spend a day learning about New Zealand’s rich history and heritage whilst journeying across Waiheke’s landscape.

Exclusive mindful walks

Walks are invigorating activities for the body and soul. As part of Omana's exclusive offers, guests can enjoy yoga sessions – in-villa or on our deck – and mindful walks. An experienced guide and professional Mindset Coach and Mindfulness Practitioner offer these.

Omana guest enjoys  yoga session with the ocean as the backdrop

The guide leads a journey to local attractions, natural wonders and the potential for introspection and reflection in a mindful way.

Sailing, kayaking and snorkelling

The crystal-clear waters surrounding Waiheke Island are a haven for sailing, kayaking and snorkelling enthusiasts. Explore the underwater world, teeming with colourful marine life, as you paddle along the coastline. Omana tours include:

  • Exclusive Sailing Charter: Charter the 41-foot catamaran Pacific Star for a day and set sail on your own adventure.
  • Active adventure tour: A day of sightseeing, kayak/paddle boarding, olive oil tasting, lunch & wine tasting, bushwalk or beach stop for a swim.

Horseback riding

Embark on a horseback riding adventure, exploring the island's scenic landscapes on horseback. Ride through lush paddocks, sandy beaches, and scenic hilltops, where panoramic views await.

Wine tours and Wine tasting

No trip to Waiheke Island is complete without indulging in its world-renowned wines. Some of the outdoor activities listed above already include tastings, but there are other possibilities for you to sample the island's finest wines.

  • Te Rere Vineyard: Exclusive to Omana’s guests, this tasting experience at a boutique winery on Waiheke Island offers a unique opportunity.
  • Wine & art tour: Includes art gallery behind-the-scenes tour, Stonyridge Vineyard for Larose Vertical 3 Tastings & tour, Mudbrick Vineyard for 3-course lunch, Headland Sculpture Walk.
  • Olive oil & wine tasting tour: Includes Allpress Olive Grove, Mudbrick & Batch Wineries.
  • Full-day wine tour + Man O' War: Includes Allpress Olive Grove, Man O' War, and 2 other wineries.
  • Waiheke Island Luxury Experience: Includes island sightseeing, premium wine tasting at 3 wineries, lunch, and olive oil tour & tasting.
  • Waiheke food & wine tour: Sample Waiheke’s delicious wines, award-winning olive oil, local artisanal products and fabulous vineyard lunches.
A guest at Omana sips sparkling wine in the bathtub with the ocean as the backdrop

Best place to rest after outdoor activities

After a day of exploring the island's many treasures, retreat to your luxurious havena private villa perched atop a hill, overlooking the tranquil expanse of the ocean. Our boutique hotel offers a choice between four detailed and designed villas, each a sanctuary of comfort and elegance.

Spacious villas with ocean view on Waiheke Island

Omana’s privileged location will make you feel a world away, yet only a short drive from Waiheke’s wonders. Our villas feature:

  • Super king bed (a California king or two singles in Villa Serenity).
  • Kitchenette (with a microwave, a minibar, a coffee machine and a washing machine).
  • Extensive bathroom and oversized bathtub.
  • Private balcony with an ocean view.
  • Daily Fresh-style breakfast.
  • Daily villa servicing.

Additionally, for ultimate relaxation, guests can enjoy an in-villa massage as part of our exclusive services.

Pure tranquillity after outdoor activities

As the sun dips below the horizon, draw a warm bath, let the cares of the world melt away, and soak in the serenity of your surroundings. Indulge in a two-course meal from our selected menu, savouring the flavours of fresh, locally sourced produce – more information about dining in upon request.

As the stars emerge, step onto your private balcony and gaze up at the celestial tapestry above. Let the gentle rhythm of the ocean lull you into a state of deep relaxation, preparing you for a night of ultimate rest on your king-size bed.

Waiheke awaits you this summer

Waiheke Island, with its idyllic beaches, breathtaking scenery, and abundance of outdoor activities, is the perfect destination for those seeking a luxurious summer escape. Immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty, indulge in culinary delights, and unwind in the comfort of your private villa.

Book your memorable summer!

BOOK YOUR STAYView all articles

Sign up to our newsletter and be the first to know about exclusive deals, news and events.

Thank you for signing up!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Copyright © 2024 Omana - All rights reserved.