BEACH OF THE WEEK: Papamoa

Laura McLeay is on a mission to check out the Bay's best beaches. This week it's the golden sands of Papamoa.

Sitting on Papamoa beach, there are views for miles. To the left in the distance is Mount Maunganui, to the right is Maketu. A breathtaking view. The atmosphere is relaxed, tranquil. A young man is surfing in the waves, families are having a picnic and sunbathing along the stretch of white, sandy beach.
The main Papamoa Beach Domain is located at the end of Domain Rd, on Papamoa Beach Rd by the surf life saving clubrooms.
Being less populated than the main Mount Maunganui beach means it is ideal for those looking for a more relaxing day out.
Top 10 Holiday Resort general manager Rebecca Crosby has grown up on the beachfront and says Papamoa is just stunning.
"No matter how busy it gets on the main beach, you can always find little spots where it is quiet to go and relax and read a book. Not many other beaches are like this. When I get time off work, it is good to be able to have these times. This beach is precious."
Back in 1966 all that could be seen in Papamoa was the rolling waves, wild sandunes, a tiny camp ground, the odd house scattered around and a lot of farms. Now when you drive down Papamoa Beach Rd, the scenery is completely the opposite. As the fastest growing community in New Zealand, Papamoa is now a bustling town. Even though it is developing quickly, it has retained a coastal beach town feel, which is what makes it special.
Even the surf club which use to be a tiny tower perched on the top of the hill, is now a large thriving surf club. Lifeguards are patrolling the area each day to ensure the safety of beach goers.
When the sand between your toes becomes too much, head on over to Bluebiyou, right on the waterfront. This divine restaurant and cafe is perfect for a meal, or just a cold drink while enjoying the beach views. They are open 9.30 to late, seven days a week.
Or if you are looking for more of a stroll, head down Domain Rd to Palm Beach Plaza shopping centre for some Christmas shopping. There are a good range of shops from food to retail.
"Papamoa is the best part of the Bay of Plenty. It has something a little bit special and old school about it," says Rebecca. So what are you waiting for? Head out there this week!
NEED TO KNOW:
Where is Papamoa Beach?
Papamoa Beach Rd.
Public Toilets:
Papamoa Beach Domain carpark.
Parking:
Free parking along the Papamoa Beach Rd or in the domain carpark.
Closest icecreams:
Papamoa Foodmarket.
Liquor laws:
Liquor ban from Dec 26 to Jan 5. No ban rest of the year.