Explore the stunning coastal town of Tauranga, and scratch that budget-friendly family holiday off the list. With its endless golden sands, tranquil swimming spots, plus an abundance of places to stop for a picnic, Tauranga’s beaches will give you and the family the adventure you all deserve.

Deep in the Bay of Plenty is where you’ll find Tauranga, a place where beach-loving families flock for summer getaways. This place really does have it all—golden sands, safe swimming spots and perfect picnic areas—which means the whole family will have all their boxes ticked from the moment you arrive. It’s also a great way to spend quality time without spending big bucks! While words can’t quite describe the beauty of Tauranga, you’ll soon have a clear picture in your mind of where to go, and how to make the most of it. So pack your swimmers, inflate your beach ball, hop in your Thrifty rental car and go for it!

Mount Maunganui Main Beach

For an endless stretch of white sand with great surf, Mount Maunganui Main Beach is a local and international favourite. Don’t just take our word for it—this beauty was rated ‘Best Beach in New Zealand’ by TripAdvisor, and in the top 25 best beaches in the world. Needless to say, your whole family will get a huge kick out of splashing or lounging around, with the company of Mount Maunganui towering 232 metres above you. If you want to see the mountain/extinct volcano up-close, take the waking track. While you’re in the area, check out the range of markets for local crafts, treats, street food and produce.

Pilot Bay

For something a little more relaxed, check out Pilot Bay, which sits right near Mount Maunganui. Here, younger kids can take a dip in the calm and shallow water, while the bigger kids and young at heart can pick up kayak, paddleboard or jet ski and experience the bay the thrilling way. When you’re not spending time on the sand or in the water, head to the grass for a picnic or BBQ, or take a stroll down the walkway.

Pāpāmoa Beach

When looking for an escape from the crowds, Pāpāmoa brings you plenty of beachtime, without all the crowds. Despite its low-key vibe, it still stretches for a whopping 16 kilometres, connecting Mount Maunganui to the Kaituna River. Spend the day on the sand, take the kids to the nearby playground, then park on the grass for a picnic.

Ōmokoroa Beach

For a low-key stretch of sand to relax with the family, check out Ōmokoroa Beach. Known as ‘the long lizard’ in Māori, this underrated beach isn’t just a place for a paddle—it’s also surrounded by a picnic area, fishing wharf, cycling trail, walking tracks, golf course and more. The only worries you’ll have will be choosing!

Waihī Beach

This one isn’t technically in Tauranga, but it’s well worth the 40 minute drive. Once you arrive at Waihī Beach, you’ll be hit with a 9 kms stretch of picture-perfect sand, giving you and the family plenty of space to stretch out or run wild. When beachtime’s over, you’re in luck—the nearby town, also named Waihī Beach, sits right by the water, and has your boutique shops and eateries covered.

Why Tauranga?

Tauranga is home to a collection of beaches that’ll satisfy your beachy cravings. Whether you’re young or old, you’ll find plenty to write home about as you paddle through and explore this underrated gem in the North Island/Te Ika-a-Māui. Plus, all those hours splayed out on the sand, or splashing in the water, come at no cost whatsoever—other than the mandatory ice cream and fish-n-chips! So, load up your Thrifty rental car with your best beach attire, and head to Tauranga. We’ve got a great range of cars of all sizes, for all kinds of budgets—so check us out before you go.