The Bay of Plenty is a coastal paradise where golden beaches meet warm hospitality, and every day feels like a holiday. Whether you’re here for sun-soaked adventures, small-town charm, or fresh local flavours, this is a region that invites you to stay a little longer, play a little harder, and leave feeling deeply rejuvenated.
From white sand surf breaks to boutique eateries and scenic drives, the Bay of Plenty offers an unbeatable mix of nature and nourishment. Discover the top unique places to stay in the region that offer a memorable stay that matches up to the incredible experiences you’ll have here. From absolute beachfront camping for the ultimate Kiwi holiday, to a waterfront urban oasis. Stay in a place that leads to great dining, unbelievable beaches and more. Whether it’s a hotel or a holiday park, there’s accommodation for every kind of getaway in the Bay of Plenty, and these places make it easy to keep coming back time and time again.
Explore some of the most unique places to stay in the Bay of Plenty, with unmatched locations, charm, and access to everything that makes this region so easy to fall in love with.
1. Bowentown Beach Holiday Park
Just 10 minutes from Waihi Beach, Bowentown Beach Holiday Park is where classic Kiwi memories are made. Think long beach days, hot summer nights, and that laid-back lifestyle we all dream of when planning a coastal escape. This is the quintessential Kiwi summer holiday; camping just steps from the sand, surrounded by nature and easy access to the ocean. Whether you’re staying in a tent or caravan, self-contained units or one of the holiday parks two-bedroom ocean view cabins, the unmatched location see’s you enjoy everything this beach has to offer. To really lean into a unique getaway experience, check out their kombi caravan stays.
Bowentown Beach itself feels like a world away – 9kms of peaceful, family-friendly beach. Whether you’re here with the kids, your partner, or a group of mates, it’s a place that captures the magic of a classic beach getaway, the kind you’ll want to repeat year after year.
Nearby Waihī Beach is loaded with hidden gems worth exploring. Grab mouthwatering Mexican street food and drinks from The Secret Garden, or set off on a local walk like the nearby scenic Athenree Wetland Loop Track, a gentle loop trail teeming with birdlife and native plants.
2. Clarence Hotel
In the heart of Tauranga stands Clarence Hotel, a striking boutique stay housed in the city’s historic 1900s post office. With its grand exterior wrapped in lush greenery, it’s a stay that turns heads before you even step inside. But it’s what’s within that truly sets Clarence Hotel apart.
Contemporary in style, each room is elegantly appointed with curated New Zealand art and high-end furnishings. Whether you’ve been strolling the waterfront or exploring the wider Bay of Plenty, returning to Clarence feels like a warm embrace. It’s comfort meets charm, a place to unwind, not just sleep.
Location is key, and Clarence makes the most of it. A short stroll takes you to the Tauranga waterfront, boutique shops, cafes and the Tauranga Art Gallery. It’s a stay that blends city buzz with coastal calm, offering the best of both worlds for a unique Bay of Plenty getaway.
Don’t miss the on-site restaurant, where fresh New Zealand produce is transformed into Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Settle in for handmade pasta, grilled octopus, oysters and a thoughtfully crafted sharing menu. It’s an elevated dining experience in the Bay of Plenty that’s as memorable as the stay itself.
3. Watercliff
Tucked away on the banks of the Omanawa River, just 20 minutes from Tauranga, Watercliff is the kind of escape that makes you slow down, breathe deep, and fully switch off. Surrounded by acres of native bush and birdsong, it’s a retreat that invites you to reconnect with nature, with yourself, and with the people you’re travelling with.
More than just a getaway, Watercliff is an eco retreat made up of beautifully designed off-grid cabins. These architectural gems run entirely off the sun and rainwater, offering a sustainable experience without compromising on comfort. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a stay that’s environmentally conscious yet remarkably relaxing.
One of the standout stays is The View, a cabin aptly named for its incredible outlook over the Omanawa River and the cliffs beyond. The outdoor bath on the private deck is the perfect way to soak in the beauty of the surroundings, day or night.
While the Bay of Plenty is best known for its beaches, the inland scenery here more than holds its own. Venture into the native forest, follow the river’s edge, and discover the quieter, greener side of the region. If you’re craving time away from the city, this hidden gem is the perfect place to recharge – an unforgettable retreat woven into the wilderness.
4. Trinity Wharf Hotel
If staying near the water is a must for your Bay of Plenty escape, Trinity Wharf Hotel delivers in every sense. Built out over the harbour on three piers, this locally owned waterfront hotel gives guests a front-row seat to Tauranga’s stunning coastal beauty. With floor-to-ceiling windows and spaces that blur the line between indoors and out, this is the kind of place where the view does all the talking.
Sunsets here often come as a surprise, bold, fiery skies reflected in the water just beyond your balcony. Whether you’re sipping coffee in bed or strolling along the pier, there’s always something to marvel at. Keep your eyes peeled for seals or other marine life, especially in the quieter hours of the day. A new waterfront playground and boardwalks are a stone’s throw from Trinity Wharf Hotel – a great way to spend some time at the waterfront in the Bay of Plenty sun.
Te Puke, Pāpāmoa Beach and Mount Maunganui are only a short drive away, offering an easy way to experience the beachside buzz, scenic coastal trails and kiwifruit capital of the world. It’s the perfect complement to a stay in the city. After a day of exploring both urban and seaside gems, return to Trinity Wharf for a laid-back yet luxurious stay. With its relaxed feel and upscale touches, this hotel is ideal for anyone wanting a unique base that combines comfort, location and a touch of local charm.
5. Tasman Holiday Parks – Pāpāmoa Beach
Set right on the sand, on absolute beachfront at Pāpāmoa Beach, this holiday park is a summer dream come to life. Located just 15 minutes down the coast from the buzz of Mount Maunganui, Pāpāmoa is a laid-back coastal haven of its own, home to foodie gems, golden beach days, and must-do walking tracks.
At Tasman Holiday Parks – Pāpāmoa Beach, the accommodation options are as varied as the experiences on offer. Pitch a tent under the stars, park up your motorhome, settle into a cosy cabin, or treat yourself to a luxury beachfront or poolside villa. There’s something here for every kind of traveller, whether you’re seeking simplicity or indulgence.
The stunning outdoor heated pool is flanked by lush greenery and leisurely seating, offering a tropical-style retreat to cool off after a beach adventure. Spend your days swimming, surfing, fishing or strolling the long, golden coastline. It’s the quintessential Kiwi summer getaway, ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers craving sunshine and serenity. This sun-drenched spot captures the Bay of Plenty lifestyle perfectly, making it easy to fall into holiday mode the moment you arrive.
This article was created in paid partnership with Bay of Plenty.
