It wouldn’t be a trip to the Coastal Bay of Plenty without staying at an epic campground on the beachfront (or as close as you can get, which is pretty close!). There are literally hundreds of accommodation options on or near the beach, so we thought we’d give a helping hand and suggest a couple of the best beachfront campgrounds (not into sleeping in a tent? Don’t worry, most campgrounds have motels, cabins, powered sites for motorhomes, and some even have apartment accommodation).
You can’t get more beachfront (or beachside if we’re getting technical) than Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park. Nestled at the foot of Mauao, this holiday park has the popular (like, the best beach in NZ kind of popular) Mount Main Beach on one side, and the almost as popular Pilot Bay Beach on the other - you can’t escape the beach! Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing, zipping open your tent (or swinging open your door, if you’re that way inclined) and there’s the beach, you don’t even need to cross a road to get there.
Mount Beachside Holiday Park has all the facilities you’d expect - the bonus is the big maunga (mountain) it sits beneath. You’ll notice plenty of locals and visitors alike heading up Mauao to catch a glimpse of the 360° views of Mount Maunganui, Tauranga and the surrounding region. The campground is extremely popular during the busy months, so we recommend booking well in advance to ensure you don’t miss out.
Get the best of both worlds at Tasman Holiday Parks - Waihī Beach - which has both bush and beachfront settings. Located in Waihī Beach - a popular holiday spot (see why here), this holiday resort is perfect if you’re looking for beachfront accommodation (there’s even a river running through the campground that is home to eels!).
Choose from beachfront tent sites, or more secluded sites tucked away in stunning bush settings and rise to the sound of birdsong and the waves crashing not too far away. There are cabins that are beachside, and some which overlook the bay back in the park. This campground is designed for families in particular - with a swimming pool (and waterslide, no less!) for the kids, and a spa for the adults to enjoy, as well as a jumping pillow, playground, under 5’s room, and much more!
Tasman Holiday Parks - Pāpāmoa Beach offers absolute beachfront accommodation - and some of it’s pretty fancy. If you prefer to travel in style - check out their luxurious beachfront villas. These indulgent accommodation options offer uninterrupted sea views and they’re the perfect place to watch the sun rise (which is definitely worth the early rise).
If you happen to be staying at the resort between November and March, you will be treated to Dinner in the Domain - an artisan food market located next to the resort in Pāpāmoa Domain. This is a great way to experience street food from around the Bay of Plenty - it’s a popular summer event and highly recommended! The resort is also extremely close to Pāpāmoa Plaza and Fashion Island for those looking for a bit of retail therapy during your stay in the Bay.
Nestled within a bush-meets-the-sea landscape at the head of a quiet peninsula, Bowentown Beach offers a variety of terrains and activities just footsteps from your accommodation. Bowentown Beach Holiday Park has 183 sites spread over 3.49 hectares ranging from the traditional tent or caravan sites, park motels, self-contained units to cabins (some are specifically pet friendly) and even two quirky ‘kombi’ cabins.
Right by the golden sands of Waihī Beach, Tasman Holiday Parks – Beachaven is the perfect spot to kick back or kickstart your next adventure. Chill in a hot tub, cook up a feast in the pizza oven, or grab the crew (pets included!) for a classic Kiwi camping experience.
Hit the beach or head into town for boutique shopping, great coffee and local eats. It’s the ultimate base to explore, relax and make the most of your Bay of Plenty escape.
Tasman Holiday Parks - Ōhiwa Beach is your go-to spot for a relaxing beachfront stay with stunning views of Ōhiwa Harbour! Located in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a memorable getaway.
There's plenty to do, with scenic bush walks, glow worms to discover, and opportunities for kayaking, fishing and swimming. Ōhiwa is a natural playground that promises fun for everyone.
Choose from a variety of accommodations tailored to suit all tastes and budgets—whether you prefer cozy park motels, comfortable units, or spacious tent and caravan sites.
For the thrill-seekers, Ōhiwa Harbour is perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking, with equipment available for hire. The kids will love the jumping pillow or the heated swimming pool on site. And pets are welcome too.
There you have it! But the beachfront magic doesn’t stop there - the Coastal Bay of Plenty is blessed with many more stunning accommodation options including hotels and motels, bed and breakfasts, apartments - and all the rest!
ElementApiProduct.ss --- Carousel
0 thumbnails
