Swimming, Surfing & SUP’ing

Surfing from Mangonui

On the East Coast, less than 20 minutes drive from The Old Oak lies the picturesque Taupo Bay, a well-regarded beach break. Surf in the crystal clear waters of the Pacific. If there is no swell, head over to Shipwreck Bay in Ahipara, only 45 minutes drive, but on the West coast. This world famous point break supplies some of the best left handed leg burners found on the planet. If you are feeling fit and adventurous, surf the Pacific (Taupo Bay) in the morning, followed by the Tasman Sea (Shippies) in the afternoon.

Kayak or SUP

Other local water activities include kayaking and the very popular stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), perfect for a glassy day on the harbour in front of the hotel. Our friend, and SUP pioneer, Stuart Murray, offers board and kayak hire, tours and lessons. Let us know and we’ll book this for you.

Kite Surfing in the Far North

If all this isn’t enough, and your thirst for adventure still hasn’t been slaked, Karikari Peninsula is home to Airzone Kitesurf School. These guys take advantage of Karikari’s odd natural orientation, so that North, South and East facing beaches offer amazing opportunities for kite surfing in most conditions. We are happy to arrange through the hotel for you.

Far North Swimming Beaches

Not up for the breakers? Then it’s hard to beat a dip at one of the areas safe swimming beaches. Coopers Beach and Cable Bay provide sheltered bays just down the road, where the Pacific laps gently at the shore – popular with locals and visitors alike. The nearby Karikari Peninsula has some lovely isolated beaches where it is impossible to resist the pull of the deep blue ocean. Ask at reception for beach towels, deck chairs and sun umbrellas