If it's tranquility you seek, you'll find the perfect place to unwind in the Bay. This region is home to many geothermal hot pools including Mount Maunganui's famous hot saltwater pools at the base of Mauao. Enjoy delicious fare at local eateries, take a stroll around Mauao's popular 3km base track, then soak away the afternoon in style.

Bay of Plenty hot pools are often surrounded by beautiful native bush and many have private pools, colder pools, toddler pools and barbecue facilities as well. No matter where along our coastline you're staying, there'll be a hot pool within easy reach.

If you're in Mount Maunganui, there's the Mount Hot Pools at 9 Adams Avenue.

Tauranga-based locals and tourists might want to check out Fernland Spa Mineral Hot Pools, at 250 Cambridge Rd; Ōmokoroa Kiwi Holiday Park, at 165 Ōmokoroa Rd; Ōropi Hot Pools, café and garden bar, at 1 Warner Rd, Ōropi; or Welcome Bay Hot Pools and Holiday Park, at 409 Welcome Bay Rd.

Those based or headed north should consider Sapphire Springs Holiday Park, at 274 Hot Springs Rd, Katikati; and Athenree Hot Springs and Holiday Park, at Athenree Rd.

And if you're travelling south, Awakeri Hot Springs on State Highway 30, which is 16km from Whakatāne, is a good option.

For more inspiration on what to see and do in the Bay, visit: www.bayofplentynz.com