With the sea, harbour, and river on all sides, the Eastern Bay of Plenty is an ideal spot for a water-based adventure weekend. Whether you’re into surfing, fishing, or stand-up paddle boarding, this little slice of underwater heaven has something for every ocean-lover.
Day one
Morning
Start your day in the sea, with a surf at Ōhope’s infamous West End. Ideal for surfers of all ages and stages - from beginners to seasoned pros - West End is a hugely popular spot to catch a break. And if you’re a first-timer, or just keen to level-up your surf skills, make time for a lesson at Salt Spray Surf School.
Next up, retreat to Moxi Café. A cosy corner of Ōhope, the funky eatery has made its home in a series of shipping containers, complete with outdoor seating that soaks up the summer sun. Warm up post-surf with a coffee, and take your pick from their scrummy brunch menu.
Midday
A visit to Ōhope wouldn’t be complete without walking the coastal section of Ngā Tapuwae o Toi. Take in the gorgeous cliff-top views, ancient pā sites, and lush native bush. The Toi track can be broken down into sections, so it can suit a range of fitness levels. Choose to walk just a small portion of the track. Or if you’re game, set aside about 5-7 hours to tackle the entire 16km round trip.
Pack a picnic, and make a pit-stop for lunch at the scenic and secluded Ōtarawairere Beach. Just keep in mind that Ōtarawairere isn’t accessible at high tide, so be sure to work your walk (and your picnic) around the tide times.
Evening
Finish up day one in style, with a sunset bite to eat at delicious Mexican dinner at Ōhope hotspot, Cadera. Chill out in the restaurant’s laid-back fiesta atmosphere, grab a chimichanga, and raise a margarita to a day well spent by the beach.
Day two
Morning
Spend your morning making some new sea-dwelling friends, with a Diveworks Dolphin and Seal Encounter. Over summer, the Eastern Bay plays host to thousands of playful dolphins and seals. Head out with the experienced Diveworks Charters team, and get to know these beautiful creatures close-up and personal.
Midday
Wind down after a thrilling morning under the sea, with lunch at Café Awa. Grab an outdoor table at Café Awa, and feast on a Grilled Halloumi Stack or creamy Mushroom Risotto.
Once your lunch has settled, head back out onto the water with KG Kayaks. KG Kayaks set up camp at Port Ōhope over the summer, and offer a fantastic way to explore Ohakana and Uretara Islands. Hire the gear you need and venture out on your own, or opt for an organised tour with a friendly local guide.
Evening
End day two of your ocean adventure with dinner at Roquette or Cigol. Just opposite the river, Roquette is an ode to contemporary and delicious dining. Cigol covers tasty Korean fusion to get your taste buds humming.
Day three
Morning
Round out your ocean-lovers weekend with a spot of fishing. Rated one of New Zealand’s best fishing destinations, the summer months bring in the yellowfin, skipjack and albacore tuna – while snapper and hapuka can be found along the off-shore reefs. Head out onto the water with one of Whakatāne’s many fantastic charter companies, and see what’s biting.
Or if you’d rather swim with the fishes than catch them, pay a visit to Dive Whakatāne instead. The Eastern Bay of Plenty is a diver’s undersea playground, with islands, a live marine volcano, and deep inshore waters just waiting to be explored. From beginners to experts, snorkellers to technical divers, all are welcome at Dive Whakatāne.
Midday
Wind down from the morning’s fishing or diving with lunch at The Strand. The Strand on The Strand serves up hearty food and coffee with soul.
Evening
Head over the hill to Ōhope, and relax into the evening with a leisurely stroll along the beach. With 11km of white sands to explore, and family-friendly waves lapping at the sands, it’s the perfect place to watch the sun setting past Moutohorā Island.
Finally, end your stay with dinner over the water at the harbourside Ōhope gem, Fisherman's Wharf. Fabulous food, fantastic views, and friendly locals. What better way to finish off your stay in this ocean lover’s paradise.
Where to stay?
For a long weekend at the water, there’s no better place to stay than New Zealand’s favourite beach; Ōhope. Stick close to the surf breaks at West End, at Ōhope Beach Motel. With 9 freshly renovated beachfront units, the motel is stumbling distance from the waves – so you won’t have to carry your surfboard far.
Or head down to the other end of the beach, and make yourself at home at Ōhope Beach Resort. The luxurious apartment complex boasts stunning harbour and sea views, and it’s also right next to the Port Ōhope General Store. So your morning caffeine fix will be right on your doorstep.
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