There’s just something about the feeling of being exclusive. Usually it comes with a big price tag and me feeling a bit self conscious but at Papamoa Beach Resort we had all of the luxury, with out the price tag or the snobbery!
We headed down to Tauranga with the kids for a long weekend to celebrate my birthday and decided to stay at the Papamoa Beach Resort. James had some family in the area and had stayed there while working in Tauranga before so it came highly recommended, but for me it was the first time.
I loved just about everything about the Papamoa Beach Resort.
We stayed in the Garden Villa and I loved the self contained house that actually slept a family of 5 without one of the kids sleeping on a stretcher or a couch! With big comfy couches that you sunk into, a TV to watch the rugby and big fridges for our evening wine and beer and snacks for the kids. And beds so comfy that I slept in every morning and missed the sunrise I’d vowed to photograph.
We were right next to the park for the kids to play but still had some privacy on the two decks with all the trees around the villa. They were off exploring, which meant I had time to sit and relax. Something I haven’t had a lot of time to do lately with the success of the Getting Lost Game (thanks guys!)
Just a very short walk up to the upper camp ground (seriously what a spot to camp!) and there was the beach.
Stretching out for miles in either direction, with the surf life guards right by.
At the staircase was a sign that reminded everyone that it was a little bit exclusive even if it is just a fancy campground!
Last time we were in Papamoa we’d seen a seal frolicking on the shore. This time there was just wave after wave as the kids played in the surf.
I wasn’t sure if we’d have to drive into Tauranga (and we did for a visit) but there is plenty in Papamoa to make a trip into town a treat not a necessity.
There’s a Pak n Save just down the road to stock up on all the essentials for the kitchen.
And there is a Hollywood Nails in the mall at Papamoa and it is amazing. Me and the girls all went and got our nails done and they made such a fuss of the girls and did such an amazing job of our nails. It’s worth the visit for that alone!
Also just down the road from the Papamoa Beach Resort (and we’re talking an easy walk) is the Papamoa Beach Tavern. It’s got good honest pub grub, with a funky decor and is perfect for a low key meal out with the kids.
And if you are looking for something a bit more fancy, Bluebiyou is just at the entrance. We went there for my birthday dinner. When I look back on this weekend I potentially over played the birthday card. It was the birthday that never ended when I look back at my birthday lunch, birthday dinner, birthday show, birthday swim and of course birthday weekend away. Oh well, you only do it once a year!
I’m guessing it sells out pretty quick at Summer so if you are looking for an epic camping spot, or reasonably priced bit of seaside luxury jump in quick and secure your spot at this gem.
