Relax on golden sands or dine in some of the city’s best restaurants at this pretty beach escape, just a 15-minute drive outside of central Auckland.

Swim, kayak or paddle board in the safe, clear waters at Mission Bay or join the joggers and walkers keeping fit along the promenade. Place your towel in the shade of a pohutukawa tree and enjoy an afternoon’s rest then head for a drink or meal in one of the many cafés and bars along the oceanfront.

Located on the southern shores of Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour, Mission Bay is the most popular of the city’s eastern beaches. The cafés, restaurants and bars here have a great atmosphere year-round. Visit Mission Bay for a tasty breakfast, great coffee or a romantic dinner, all with stunning views across the water.

Relaxing in the sun is the favored pastime on the beach, and on any day of the week you will see locals enjoying the calm waters and soft sands. Buy an ice cream, lay down your towel and spend a few peaceful hours by the water.

If you’re feeling active, jog or walk along the promenade and take in the ocean views. Keep walking east and you will discover more pretty bays, with Kohimarama and St. Heliers beaches a short distance away. For a more challenging walk, climb to the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Garden, which has superb views across the harbor and Rangitoto Island. To explore the bay by water, rent paddleboards, kayaks and sail boats from stores nearby.

Behind the beach you’ll see the Trevor Davis Memorial Fountain, carved from fine Sicilian marble. Come here during the hot summer months to cool off beneath the jets of water that spurt from the mouths of the carved sea monsters.

Mission Bay is located just 5 miles (8 kilometres) from central Auckland. Regular buses connect the beach to the city. If driving, you will find parking just behind the beach.