Ōmokoroa Guide: What to see, do & eat
Ōmokoroa is a small coastal settlement in the Bay of Plenty. Although not well-known by tourists, this is a great place to relax, unwind and explore.
Boasting an awesome cycle path, beautiful walks, and a relaxing atmosphere, it’s the place to be if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of nearby Tauranga and Mount Maunganui.
This Ōmokoroa guide will detail everything you need to know for your visit, including what to do, where to eat and nearby places that you can visit.
Things to do in Ōmokoroa
Although Ōmokoroa is only a small place, surprisingly, there are quite a few things to do!
These are some of our favourites…
The Ōmokoroa to Tauranga cycle trail
This 19km cycle trail runs along the Ōmokoroa Peninsula so you’ll be treated to scenic views as you ride.
As the name suggests, it connects this coastal town with the city of Tauranga.
The cycleway is easy to bike along making it a great option if you’re looking to get some fresh air. It’s also mostly flat, so suitable for families and people who are new to biking.
Ōmokoroa Beach
Situated right in front of Ōmokoroa Domain, you’ll find a quiet sandy beach. The waves here are gentle making it a great family-friendly spot for a dip, or you can simply relax and catch some rays.
If you have your own SUP or kayak, it’s worth bringing along. This will allow you to explore the harbour and Motuhoa Island.
Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall
Next up we have Ōmokoroa Settlers’ Hall. Although you won’t need much time here (and the hall itself is barely an attraction), it is often home to a variety of awesome market stalls.
You can find all sorts of quirky gifts here but it all depends on whether there’s a market day on or not. Sometimes exhibitions are held here too.
334 Omokoroa Road, Ōmokoroa 3172
Have a game of golf at Ōmokoroa Golf Club
The Ōmokoroa Golf Club is one of the most beautiful courses in New Zealand.
There are 18 holes that treat players to scenic coastal views as you progress through the course.
Casual players are welcome here as it’s not a members-only golf club.
67 Links View Drive, Ōmokoroa, Tauranga
The Gerald Crapp Historic Reserve
The Gerald Crapp Historic Reserve is one of the best places for a stroll in Ōmokoroa. It runs around the peninsula and along some steep cliffs, so as you can imagine the views are pretty impressive.
You’ll also find plenty of native and exotic trees in this reserve. You’ll even find the Wai-Huri Pā here – an ancient Māori fortified settlement.
5 Gellibrand Place, Ōmokoroa 3114
Precious Family Reserve
Finally, we have Precious Family Reserve. Located towards the end of the golf course, this is another great place to enjoy a walk.
There’s a walkway here that climbs up to the cliffs before exiting onto Hamurana Road or Waterview Terrace. From the top, you can admire the views.
136 Hamurana Road, Ōmokoroa 3114
Places to eat in Ōmokoroa
Alma Eatery
Alma Eatery is a cosy Italian restaurant that’s known for its delicious food and fantastic atmosphere. You’ll also be treated to stunning sea views whilst you dine.
Their lamb dish is one of the most popular options but Alma also offers tasty pizzas, light salads, and mouth-watering sweet treats.
4 The Esplanade, Ōmokoroa 3114
Ōmokoroa Beach Pizzeria
Next up we have Ōmokoroa Beach Pizzeria. The owners here are super-friendly and always go out of their way to make your experience special.
If you hadn’t guessed by the name, this place is known for its pizzas. In fact, some people say it’s the best pizza they’ve ever had!
They’re loaded full of delicious ingredients and are serve up unique flavour combinations.
168 Omokoroa Road, Ōmokoroa 3114
The Address Indian Kitchen
If you’re looking for tasty flavours, then head to The Address Indian Kitchen. It offers both dine-in and takeaway, and there’s an extensive menu to choose from.
After you’ve been here once for a curry, it’s a guarantee that you’ll be back again.
168 Omokoroa Road, Ōmokoroa 3114
Musa Sushi & Japanese Cuisine
This is one of the more unique dining options in Ōmokoroa but it’s certainly worth the visit.
Musa Sushi & Japanese Cuisine has a great menu that includes bento boxes, donburi, noodles, and Japanese curries. They also have some awesome sides and sushi options.
We love that a town like Ōmokoroa has so many authentic cultural dining options.
160 Omokoroa Road, Ōmokoroa 3172
Things to do near Ōmokoroa
Ōmokoroa is a quiet little spot that invites you to relax, hit the beach, and head out on some walks.
However, there are some other places nearby that you can visit.
Whether you visit these spots as you’re driving to and from town or you make day trips from here, they’re all work stopping off at.
Te Puna
Te Puna is a small community that’s known for its peaceful atmosphere, awesome attractions, and quirky eateries – namely Nourish Cafe!
Some of the top things to do here include admiring the views from Minden Lookout, visiting The Cider Factorie, and exploring Te Puna Quarry Park.
Te Puna is a 12-minute drive from Ōmokoroa.
Tauranga
Tauranga is the largest city within the Bay of Plenty and is located right next to Mount Maunganui. It’s famous for its fantastic work/life balance, variety of activities, and sea views.
Some of the most popular attractions in Tauranga include the Historic Village, the Tauranga Art Gallery, and the Hairy Maclary Bronze Sculptures.
Tauranga is a 20-minute drive from Ōmokoroa.
Mount Maunganui
The charming Mount Maunganui is located right next door to Tauranga. It is home to beautiful beaches, spectacular scenery, and a whole host of awesome activities.
If you decide to visit, you’ll want to hike up Mount Maunganui (which is a dormant volcano), relax at the hot pools, and see the blowhole at Leisure Island.
Mount Maunganui is a 25-minute drive from Ōmokoroa.
Book: The Pacific Apartments Mount Maunganui.
Waihi Beach
Waihi Beach is another great spot to visit within the Bay of Plenty. This relaxed beachside village is famous for its white sand beach, boutique stores, and charming eateries.
Some of the best things to do here include visiting Waihi Beach Art Gallery, hitting up some of the nearby trails, and relaxing on the beach.
We also highly recommend heading along to Flatwhite for some delicious kai and getting fish and chips to eat on the beach.
Waihi Beach is a 40-minute drive from Ōmokoroa.
Okere Falls
Last but certainly not least, we’ve got Okere Falls which is situated a bit further out than the other destinations listed in this part of the guide.
Okere Falls is a small town that’s famed for its rapids and waterfalls. That makes it the perfect location for keen kayakers and rafters. Lake Rotoiti is found here too and it’s popular with hikers.
Book: Discounted rafting on the Okere Falls.
Okere Falls is a 1-hour drive from Ōmokoroa. Then it’s not much further until you reach Rotorua.
Ōmokoroa may be small but there are some great things to do there.
If you’re in the Bay of Plenty area then it makes a great stop-off point whilst you’re travelling through.
Have you ever been to this awesome place?
If you have, what’s your favourite thing to do?
We’d love to know!
