Get a dose of vitamin D at Carters Beach. Once you've worked on your tan, stick around and watch the sky transform with colors as the sun slowly sets.
If you like hearing the word "free" as much as most travelers, you'll be pleased to know this stretch of coastline is exactly that. Carters Beach is located in Cape Foulwind. If you want to keep your sightseeing schedule full while you're in the area, also drop by Tauranga Bay Seal Colony, NBS Theatre and Miners Brewery.