If you’re looking for somewhere near Auckland for a relaxing weekend away, I can highly recommend Castaways Resort. Set high above Karioitahi Beach, around an hour’s drive south of Auckland, Castaways Resort and Spa is the perfect place to check in and not leave for a weekend.
Staying a wet weekend, other than driving down to Karioitahi Beach for a walk along the beach and to watch the surfers out in the water, my bestie and I didn’t leave the resort between check in and check out two days later. We spent our time playing board games, visiting the spa, eating and drinking, and watching Netflix.
If you are looking for somewhere with plenty to do, Castaways resort is close to three great golf courses, walks, and there are adventure activities on site as well as other attractions and the Waiuku Town Centre a short drive away.
A brief history of Castaways Resort and Spa
In 2002 KP’s, a ten-year old clifftop cafe and restaurant establishment, was purchased and developed into a wedding, conference and dining venue. Over the years since blocks of accommodation have gradually been added including chalets, studios, a glamping site and villas. A block of farmland was also purchased to house Castaways Adventures which offers Archery, Four Wheel Driving, Clay Bird Shooting and Blo-karting.
The purpose built Bersantai Day Spa opened on the site in 2011 as well as a conference centre. Along with additional villas a swimming pool, gym, tennis court and staff accommodation will be part of the current expansion.
Inside a villa at Castaway Resort
My friend and I stayed in one of the brand new one bedroom villas for two nights for a girls weekend. Our villa was right at the top of the resort so was very quiet and had views across the coast from the balcony which we were particularly grateful for during the sunsets. As the resort is still undergoing building work there was a bit of construction noise during the day.
At each end of the full kitchen and open plan dining and lounge area was a lockable door enabling the villa to be sold as either a one or two bedroom villa. We had our bedroom set up with two single beds.
The shower in the modern bathroom was amazing and the towels were soft, fluffy and luxurious.
The villas aren’t really within walking distance of the restaurant or spa so we drove to both on the gravel road. There is a complementary buggy service (subject to availability) but we never used it.
Bersantai Day Spa
Bersantai Day Spa at Castaways Resort has a Balinese influence to its treatments, decor and landscaping.
We opted for the Couples Relaxation Package which included relaxing 60 minute massages followed by a shared outdoor coconut stone bath with glasses of bubbles (sensibly non-alcoholic and served in plastic glasses). We were able to make the bath cooler if we needed to.
Dining at Castaways Restaurant and Bar
Breakfast was included in our room rate and was served between 7:30am and 10:30am and we needed to book a time. The Castaways Resort Restaurant is also open for a buffet lunch and à la carte dinner, however rather than eating at the restaurant or ordering a picnic hamper, we self-catered for our other meals, making the most of the kitchen in our villa.
Breakfast in the Castaways Restaurant and Bar was buffet style with a range of hot and continental options as well as juices, tea and filter coffee. Barista coffee was available at an additional price. Our final breakfast in the was a nice way to finish our stay before driving back towards Auckland Airport.
Check out this Instagram Reel of my stay.
