Cable Bay Vineyards, Auckland - Dunedin cityscape
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Cable Bay Vineyards Auckland

3.7
·809 reviews·Auckland, New Zealand

Waiheke Island winery with stunning ocean views, offering wine tastings, gourmet food, and overnight stays.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon to sunset

Unbeatable sunset views

CrowdHigh
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Cable Bay Vineyards, Auckland - Dunedin cityscape

Cable Bay Vineyards Auckland

Best Time

Late afternoon to sunset

Unbeatable sunset views

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Waiheke Island winery with stunning ocean views, offering wine tastings, gourmet food, and overnight stays.

3.7
(809 reviews)

"Incredible sunset views, delicious food, amazing wine, and outstanding service."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Book ahead for sunset! The views are incredible and it's a popular time.

⛴️ Ferry Smart

Take the commuter ferry from downtown Auckland for stunning city views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oceanfront Views

Oceanfront Views

Vineyard grounds

Breathtaking panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland skyline. Perfect for sunset.

Wine Tasting Experience

Wine Tasting Experience

Tasting room or restaurant

Sample a range of their acclaimed wines, from crisp whites to rich reds, often paired with small bites.

Gourmet Small Plates

Gourmet Small Plates

Restaurant

Enjoy delicious, locally-sourced dishes designed to complement their wines, like truffle fries or duck.

Planning Your Visit

Ferry to Waiheke Island

Access Cable Bay Vineyards via a scenic ferry from downtown Auckland. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid queues. Consider the ferry schedule to maximize your time on the island.

Reservations Recommended

While walk-ins are sometimes possible, booking a table for wine tastings or dining is highly recommended, particularly for sunset slots. This ensures you get the best views and avoids disappointment.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon to sunset
Why
Unbeatable sunset views
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

SAVE THIS hack for date nights, hangouts or simply for an incredible experience 🌅 follow for more travel hacks in NZ #auckland #jetstarnz
@liliaalexander
90.7K likes • 1.1M views

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Book ahead for sunset! The views are incredible and it's a popular time. TikTok

⛴️ Ferry Smart

Take the commuter ferry from downtown Auckland for stunning city views. TikTok

Follow for more inspo 🥰 This is the commuter ferry between downtown Auckland and Devonport ⛴️ Running usually every 30 mins depending on time of day. Check Google for sunset time and head out around then, then back for the city lights 🌅 It’s only $5.40 / adult with the Hop card or less if you’re a child / student etc ✔️ One of my favourite things to do in Auckland! For the best views 😍
@liliaalexander
41K likes • 518.7K views
Sip, savor, and let the enchantment unfold 🍇✨ Join me for a magical winery experience, where every glass is filled with the rich flavors of the vineyard, and the sunset paints the sky in hues of warmth. Cheers to the beauty of moments steeped in grapes and golden rays. . . . #twilightinthevines #sirrometwinery #sirrometwines #winerydate #brisbanedateideas #dateideas
@agirlwhoadventures
19.5K likes • 904.2K views

🍷 Wine Tasting Value

The wine tasting is worth it, offering a great selection of their wines. Reddit

🍽️ Delicious Bites

Don't miss the food! Truffle fries and duck are highly recommended. Reddit

watching the sunset at muriwai is my favourite thing to do in Auckland this time of year 🌅🫶 #auckland #aucklandnz #sunset #newzealand #sunsetlover #aucklandcity #westcoast #muriwai #nzmustdo #thingstodo #nature #nztiktok
@notes2home
13.8K likes • 97.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Book ahead for sunset! The views are incredible and it's a popular time. TikTok

⛴️ Ferry Smart

Take the commuter ferry from downtown Auckland for stunning city views. TikTok

🍷 Wine Tasting Value

The wine tasting is worth it, offering a great selection of their wines. Reddit

🍽️ Delicious Bites

Don't miss the food! Truffle fries and duck are highly recommended. Reddit

🚗 Transport on Island

Consider booking a taxi or shuttle in advance for island transport. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.7
(809 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cable Bay Vineyards is celebrated for its absolutely gorgeous property and breathtaking ocean views, particularly at sunset. Visitors praise the delicious food, including truffle fries and duck, and the enjoyable wine tasting experience. However, some reviews mention inconsistent service and wine quality, with one reviewer alleging discriminatory treatment.

"My wife and I went here as part of a Waiheke Island wine tour at several places, with Cable Bay Vineyards being the first stop (mid-March 2025).

The property itself is absolutely gorgeous, and the views are breathtaking, overlooking the ocean from the hills.

It was our sommelier’s 2nd class ever, but she was totally engaging, charming and professional. It made the experience that much more enjoyable. We sampled various different wines. The quality was good, but I admittedly had better for my personal tastes at other spots on this tour, as well as throughout our entire trip. Would still recommend if you’re making a day-trip ferry to the island!"

Mike de Gruchy

"Had a great time at Cable Bay! We did the wine tasting and it was definitely worth the money, got to try almost 8 different wines and they were all sooo good. The cheeseboard was delicious too. Loved the ambience: relaxed, beautiful, and perfect for enjoying good wine."

Thea Caliva

"This vineyard restaurant in Waiheke is simply the best! Incredible sunset views, delicious food, amazing wine, and outstanding service. Every dish was packed with flavor, and the atmosphere was pure magic. A must-visit when you’re on the island!"

Ximena Flores

What People Like

Stunning ocean views
Delicious food
Great wine tasting

What People Dislike

Inconsistent service
Occasional wine quality issues
Allegations of discrimination

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular way is to take a ferry from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island. From the ferry terminal on Waiheke, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or pre-booked transport to Cable Bay Vineyards. Some visitors opt for organized wine tours that include Cable Bay. TikTokReddit

Yes, there is parking available for visitors. However, during peak times, it can get busy, so arriving early or considering alternative transport is advisable.

The ferry ride from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island typically takes around 40 minutes. TikTok

It's a significant distance to walk from the Matiatia ferry terminal to Cable Bay Vineyards, and the terrain can be hilly. It's generally recommended to use local transport like taxis or shuttles. Reddit

Yes, there are often shuttle services available on Waiheke Island that can take you to various vineyards, including Cable Bay. It's best to check local schedules or book in advance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It is highly recommended to book your wine tasting in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak hours or on weekends. This ensures availability and a smoother experience. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on their operating hours for the tasting room and restaurant.

The cost of wine tastings can vary depending on the package chosen. Typically, you can expect to pay around $20-$30 NZD per person for a tasting flight, which often includes small food pairings. Reddit

While walk-ins may be accommodated for the restaurant if space is available, reservations are strongly advised for both wine tastings and dining to guarantee your spot, especially for popular times like sunset. Reddit

Yes, several Waiheke wine tour operators include Cable Bay Vineyards in their itineraries. This can be a convenient option if you want to visit multiple wineries without worrying about transportation. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Cable Bay offers a menu of delicious small plates and main courses, often featuring fresh, local ingredients. Popular items include truffle fries and expertly prepared duck. Reddit

Absolutely! Cable Bay has a restaurant that serves lunch and dinner, offering a fantastic dining experience with stunning views. Reservations are highly recommended. Reddit

The menu typically includes options that can cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, though it's always best to inform your server of any dietary requirements when ordering.

Yes, a cheeseboard is often available and is a popular choice to accompany wine tastings, offering a selection of local cheeses and accompaniments. Reddit

Reviews suggest the food is generally high quality and delicious, with many finding it a worthwhile culinary experience to complement the wine and views. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire property offers stunning photo opportunities, especially the terraces overlooking the ocean. The vineyards themselves and the architecture of the buildings are also very photogenic. TikTok

Yes, Cable Bay is renowned for its spectacular sunset views, making it an ideal location for photographers looking to capture golden hour and twilight shots. TikTok+1

For professional photoshoots, it's essential to contact Cable Bay Vineyards in advance to inquire about their policies and any associated fees.

While sunsets are magical, the views are beautiful throughout the day. Mid-afternoon offers good light, and the golden hour before sunset provides warm, soft light.

Drone usage is typically restricted at private properties like vineyards. It's crucial to check with Cable Bay Vineyards directly regarding their drone policy before flying.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cable Bay Vineyards can be a pleasant outing for families, especially during the day. The expansive grounds offer space for children to explore (under supervision), and the stunning views can captivate younger visitors. While the focus is on wine, the restaurant often has kid-friendly options, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it less formal than some fine-dining establishments. Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid peak crowds and ensure a more comfortable experience for everyone. TikTok

🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Cable Bay Vineyards is an idyllic destination for couples seeking a romantic experience. The breathtaking ocean views, especially during sunset, create a magical ambiance. Enjoying a wine tasting together, sharing a gourmet meal on the terrace, or even staying overnight in their villa offers a perfect setting for a special occasion. Booking a table with a view in advance is highly recommended for a truly memorable romantic outing. TikTok

🍷 Wine Enthusiasts

For serious wine lovers, Cable Bay Vineyards offers a chance to sample a diverse range of their award-winning wines. The tasting experience provides an opportunity to learn about their viticulture and winemaking techniques. While some reviews suggest other Waiheke wineries might offer more complex or preferred wine profiles for certain palates, Cable Bay remains a significant and enjoyable stop for exploring the island's wine scene. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Waiheke Island Experience

Waiheke Island is a gem in the Hauraki Gulf, renowned for its stunning beaches, lush vineyards, and vibrant arts scene. It's a popular day trip destination from Auckland, offering a perfect escape from the city bustle. Visitors can explore numerous wineries, indulge in gourmet food, hike scenic trails, or simply relax on the sandy shores. The island's unique microclimate contributes to its world-class wine production, making it a must-visit for any wine enthusiast. TikTok

Getting to Waiheke is straightforward via a frequent ferry service from downtown Auckland. Once on the island, a network of buses, taxis, and shuttle services makes it easy to navigate between attractions. Many visitors choose to join organized wine tours, which often include stops at prominent vineyards like Cable Bay, Mudbrick, and Man O' War, offering a curated tasting experience without the hassle of self-driving. Reddit

Beyond wine, Waiheke offers a diverse range of activities. Art galleries, sculpture parks, and local craft markets provide cultural enrichment. For the active traveler, coastal walks and kayaking opportunities abound. The island's relaxed atmosphere, combined with its natural beauty and sophisticated offerings, makes it a truly memorable destination. TikTok

Cable Bay Vineyards: A Closer Look

Cable Bay Vineyards stands out on Waiheke Island for its exceptional setting and commitment to quality. Perched on a hillside, it offers unparalleled views of the Hauraki Gulf, making it a prime spot for enjoying a glass of wine as the sun dips below the horizon. The vineyard cultivates a range of grape varietals, producing wines that have garnered acclaim both locally and internationally. TikTok

The tasting experience at Cable Bay is designed to be both educational and enjoyable. Visitors can sample several of their signature wines, often guided by knowledgeable staff who share insights into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of each vintage. The accompanying cheeseboards and small plates are crafted to perfectly complement the wines, enhancing the overall sensory journey. Reddit

While the views and wines are a major draw, the culinary offerings at Cable Bay's restaurant are equally impressive. The menu features dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, showcasing the best of New Zealand's produce. Whether you're enjoying a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, the combination of exquisite food, fine wine, and breathtaking scenery creates an unforgettable experience. Reddit

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