Pāpāmoa is the beachfront suburb with sun-soaked views, laid-back vibes and plenty to explore – from real fruit ice cream to boardwalk bike rides and the only beachside restaurant in the Bay of Plenty.
Here’s how to make the most of a few sunny days in Pāpāmoa, when staying with Beyonder.
DAY ONE
Settle (and Check) In
Arriving at your Beyonder stay is like a deep exhale you’ve been waiting to take. The streets are calm, the light settles, and everything feels considered and ready for you. Set your bags down, pour something chilled, slide open the doors and let the coastal air drift through. This is your cue to ease into the weekend with an unhurried sense of calm. Your break is just beginning.
Pāpāmoa Boardwalk
Stretch your legs with a walk or bike ride along the boardwalk – a scenic pathway hugging the dunes with ocean views that runs from the Pāpāmoa Domain to Parton Road. It’s flat, which makes it perfect for a set of wheels or a slow coastal wander.
Beach Time
Hire a surfboard or bike from the Hākanini Surf School & Rentals at the Domain and cruise around. Or get that lesson you’ve been meaning to. It’s a fun way to explore more of the waterfront and get a feel for Pāpāmoa’s laidback sensibility.
Sunset Stroll or Park Up
As the sun dips, head to Beach Bar (also known as Bluebiyou) for a drink and dinner. It’s a chilled local haunt and is the only true beachfront restaurant in the Bay of Plenty. It’s got great drinks, often there’s live tunes, and it’s only steps from the sand. It’s the perfect way to wind out the first day before returning to your place to settle in for the night.
DAY TWO
Early Morning
Avoid the heat and hit the Pāpāmoa Hills early in the day (just check it’s open before you go). Whether you choose a short loop or a longer wander, the paths wind through bush, past farmland and open out to rolling views across the coast.
Breakfast Recovery
After your hike, swing by Gather Café for a top-tier brew by Grey Roasting Co. – a Pāpāmoa favourite for quality beans and welcoming service. Their neat menu always hits the spot, too.
Relax at Beyonder
Enjoy a moment to take some time out on the deck or by the pool back at your place. Exploring the area is great, but time away should also be about taking a moment to slow down with nowhere to be.
Nature Immersion
Spend the rest of the day on the beach, or mission out to Kaiate Falls – a photogenic waterfall walk through native bush for a refreshing contrast to the sea (just check it’s open before you make the trek).
Late Afternoon Tipple
Before you head home to get ready for dinner, swing by The Island for a relaxed drink in the sun. This spot has a social, coastal vibe with plenty of cold beer on tap and a gastro pub menu to match. Alternatively, nip next door to Ruby’s for a mouthwatering taco and a nip of something tequila-based.
Dining the Senses
A crowd favourite, Lantern is known for its delicious South-East Asian food and refreshing cocktails. Think tiger prawn toast, panang duck and sam tam salad. Go hungry is the real key here. Special mention goes to Rain Bar, another dinner option that serves up delicious takes on hearty classics.
DAY THREE
Rise Early
Get along to a rejuvenating class at Reform Pāpāmoa to stretch out the body, especially if you’ve been taking the surf board out. If pilates isn’t your gig, a sunrise swim never goes astray.
Final Treats
The final few moments of any holiday are best soaked up staring out to the ocean with a coffee or ice cream in hand from. Head to Sand N Surf Cafe, a cool converted van serving up the goods seven days. The kids can even fossick through the free beach toys while you take a moment.
Check Out
Close up the suitcase and shut the door gently behind you. Perhaps all while you think about how to get back here again sooner rather than later.
BEYONDER HOMES TO CHECK IN
For couples, check out Pearl by the Sea and Oceanfront Abode.
For friends, gather together at Saltwater Cottage, Shore Break and The San Pedro.
For families, take a look at Papamoana, The Upper Deck and Morning Tide Retreat.
