We reckon Mission Bay is Auckland City’s favourite beach. It’s not often you can head to one of the world’s major cities and find yourself on a beach so beautiful, with amazing views and clear blue waters. Whether it’s cool beachside dining that you’re after, the perfect picnic spot or a stretch of beach that’s great for both sunbathing and swimming, Mission Bay in Auckland has it all.
Along The Promenade you’ll find plenty of places to eat, from budget cafes and ice cream parlours, to five-star restaurants serving organic, locally sourced food. Stop for coffee, lunch or ice cream during the day, or come at night for a blowout meal. Try Bar Comida for Spanish-style tapas, De Fontein for Belgian beer and mussels, or Otto Woo for gourmet noodles.
Mission Bay by bike!
Just 10 minutes by car from the centre of Auckland, Mission Bay is really easy to find. Just take Queen St downtown, turn right onto Quay Street and follow along as it becomes picturesque Tamaki Drive. Along the way you will enjoy remarkable views of the coast until you see the golden beaches of Mission Bay. Better still, pick up one of the city’s rental bikes and take the beautiful cycle along Tamaki Drive – there’s a designated cycling/running/walking path that’s plenty wide enough to accommodate everyone and the ride is very picturesque.
Stop at The Auckland Museum, the Parnell Rose Gardens or Okahu Bay along the way. There’s parking available in Mission Bay on Patteson Avenue, though spaces are limited so you do need to get there early in the day to take advantage.
Walk to Mission Bay
If you fancy a bit of exercise, you could even walk to Mission Bay from the city – all you need to do is follow the promenade that stretches along the coast.  Head all the way to Bastion Point at the far western point of Mission Bay to admire the views over the gulf from the Savage Memorial, built to commemorate Michael Joseph Savage, one of New Zealand’s most famous Prime Ministers.
Mission Bay’s stunning beach is a great spot for all the family in summer. The water is calm and safe for swimming or kayaking, and the vibe is very much that of a seaside town, with long evenings attracting families who like to picnic by the fountain, and couples out for a romantic stroll. The winter splash takes place in the colder months, where swimmers who brave the icy waters can get a special discount in restaurants along The Promenade.
Don’t fancy getting out in the fresh air? Pick up an Auckland car rental and explore Mission Bay and the wider Auckland area at your own pace. Do like the locals next time you’re in Auckland and head to Mission Bay for a taste of all that the city has to offer.
