Papamoa Beach has quietly become one of the Bay of Plenty’s most sought-after holiday destinations, and with very good reason. With kilometres of golden sand, a relaxed coastal pace and easy access to Mount Maunganui, it’s the sort of place you settle into and won’t want to leave. The trick is choosing a base that matches exactly how you intend on holidaying. This guide walks you through all of the very best attractions in Papamoa and the types of holiday homes on offer, so you can book a stay that feels five-star from the moment you arrive.
Things to Do in Papamoa
Papamoa Hills Regional Park
For breathtaking views across the Bay of Plenty, head to Papamoa Hills. The walking tracks wind through native bush and farmland, leading you up to panoramic lookouts. Along the way, you’ll find remnants of historic sites, giving you a glimpse into the area’s rich Māori heritage. It’s a rewarding walk at any time of day, especially in the late afternoon when the light is golden.
Blissful Breakfasts & Long Lunches
Papamoa is also home to a great mix of cafés and restaurants, making it easy to settle into a slower holiday rhythm of leisurely breakfasts, long lunches and dinners that stretch into the evening. Here are a couple of our favourite dining destinations to choose from:
Shopping in Papamoa
Papamoa makes it easy to mix beach days with a little retail therapy, with local shopping centres, boutiques and everyday essentials all close by. Papamoa Plaza is home to more than 40 stores, including Caroline Eve, Acquisitions, Mountain Warehouse, Stirling Sports and Home Plaza, while Fashion Island is the place to browse outlet favourites including Bonds, Bendon, Puma, Skechers, Cotton On, Decjuba and Under Armour. Whether you’re picking up holiday essentials or looking for a little holiday souvenir, Papamoa shopping delivers.
Places to Stay in Papamoa
The best part about a Papamoa holiday? You can spend your days at the beach, easily duck out for a coffee or lunch, then come home to a place that feels like your own. We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite holiday homes below, from a classic bach on the beach to larger homes made for groups.
Beachwater Getaway
Sleeps 6 | 3 Bed | 1 Bath
23 Karewa Parade
Sleeps 8 | 4 Bed | 3.5 Bath
46 Karewa Parade
Sleeps 10 | 4 Bed | 3 Bath
Find Your Next Papamoa Escape
Ready to make Papamoa your next beach escape? Five Star Focused has a beautiful collection of premium holiday homes in Papamoa and Mount Maunganui, all complete with thoughtful touches that make you feel at home from the moment you arrive. From fresh local treats and exclusive guest perks to homes chosen for their comfort and location, it’s all part of the Five Star Focused experience. Browse our collection of Papamoa holiday homes and find your next coastal holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the most popular things to do in Papamoa include spending time at Papamoa Beach, walking through Papamoa Hills Regional Park, exploring the local cafes and restaurants and browsing the shops at Papamoa Plaza and Fashion Island. The area is also well placed for day trips around the Bay of Plenty.
Papamoa is around a 15-minute drive from Mount Maunganui, making it easy to enjoy both destinations during your stay. Spend the morning exploring the Mount, grab lunch around Main Beach, then head back to Papamoa for a relaxed afternoon by the beach.
Yes. Five Star Focused has a selection of Papamoa holiday homes within easy reach of the beach. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed beach house or a larger home with plenty of space, there are options to suit different group sizes and styles of stay.
Summer is a popular time to visit Papamoa and the Bay of Plenty, when the warmer weather is ideal for making the most of the beach and outdoor activities. That said, Papamoa is a year-round destination, with the quieter months offering a more relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities for coastal walks, cafes and exploring.
Papamoa is a great choice for a family beach holiday, with a long sandy beach, plenty of open space and a good selection of cafés, shops and activities nearby. Staying in a Five Star Focused holiday home also gives families the extra space and convenience of a kitchen, living areas and somewhere to settle in after a day out exploring.
