Fodor's Expert Review Mission Bay

About 10 minutes' drive from the central city, Mission Bay off Tamaki Drive draws the crowds year-round and summertime can see families and community groups from all of Auckland picnicking side by side. Dining options run the gamut from fast food to formal-ish restaurants. Three extremely good ice cream parlors and an abundance of good coffee round out the culinary options, and it's not uncommon to see long lines at each joint and then people eating sitting on the seawall. Be aware though it can get very busy in summer and finding a place to park can be a nightmare. Amenities: food and drink; parking; showers; toilets. Best for: sunrise; swimming.