Overview

Ōhope, the breathtaking beach village near Whakatāne, is famous for its long white‑sand shoreline, pōhutukawa‑lined coast and safe swimming.

Often voted New Zealand’s most‑loved beach, Ōhope blends relaxed café culture, coastal walks, wildlife encounters and top‑quality surf.

  • – 11 km sweep of safe, gently shelving beach, ideal for families, swimming and surf lessons.
  • – Laid‑back village with cafés, boutique shops and a holiday‑vibe community.
  • – Gateway to Ōhiwa Harbour—great for kayaking, bird‑watching and boat trips.
  • – Walking and cycling trails, plus offshore island wildlife tours to Moutohorā/Whale Island.

Food & Drink

Coastal cafés and local producers mix fresh flavors with relaxed bay-town charm.

  • Fisherman’s Wharf – Waterfront dining specialising in local seafood and sunset views.
  • Julians Berry Farm & Café – PYO berries, homemade desserts and ice creams.
  • Mata Brewery – Bay of Plenty craft beers, pizza and harbour atmosphere.
  • Farm‑gate stalls and holiday‑park kiosks offering local produce.

Adventure & Wilderness

From surf to sea and birdlife to island eco-tours, adventure awaits at Ōhope.

  • Surf school at West End – Learn to surf on gentle summer breaks.
  • Kayak Ōhiwa Harbour – Paddle sheltered waters and spot migratory birds.
  • Helicopter or boat to Moutohorā/Whale Island – Wildlife tours featuring seabirds, reptiles and natural geothermal springs.
  • Cycle or walk Ōhope Scenic Reserve Trail – Coastal lookout, Māori heritage sites and pōhutukawa canopy.
  • Play a round at Ōhope Beach Golf Links – Scenic links course between harbour and ocean.

Must‑See Highlights

Iconic activities and landscapes unique to Ōhope.

  • Ōhope Beach – West End: Main beach with safe surf, swimming and golden sands.
  • Ōhiwa Harbour: Paddle, fish or cruise through a wildlife‑rich estuary.
  • Moutohorā / Whale Island tours: Eco‑sanctuary island trip with wildlife guided walks.
  • Ōhope Scenic Reserve Track: Coastal loop with lookout and layered native forest/clifftop views.

Shopping

Find local crafts, surf gear and artisanal eats in the village.

  • Village boutique shops – Surf brands, beachwear, and coastal gifts.
  • Farm‑gate stalls – Seasonal fruit, preserves and homemade goods.
  • Holiday‑park kiosks – Beach essentials, snacks and souvenirs.

Photography

Capture Ōhope’s golden sands, harbour sunsets, island silhouette and coastal trails.

  • Sunrise at West End – Soft light on surfbreak with cliff‑backdrop.
  • Harbour sunset – Boating reflections with Moutohorā in the distance.
  • Clifftop vista on scenic reserve – Native forest meeting coastal expanse.

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Ideal for swimming, surf lessons, island tours and warm evenings.
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Mild air, calmer seas and fewer crowds.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Surf in action, dramatic coastal walks and migratory bird watching.

Explore Nearby

  • Whakatāne – Town centre, River Trail and Māori cultural experiences.
  • Moutohorā / Whale Island – Department of Conservation wildlife sanctuary.
  • Ōtarawairere Beach – Secluded cove 10 min walk or paddle from West End.