Fancy a quintessential kiwi beach break? Well then, the Red Rock Cottage may be just the ticket. This perfect beach cottage sits right along the coastline at Clarks Beach – a mere 40-odd minute drive from Auckland City. Conveniently close, yet you will feel a million miles away.

Fancy putting your feet up with a cold drink and listening to the ocean lap against the shore? Grabbing some fish and chips to devour with the smell of sea salt wafting on the breeze? Walking your dog along crisp white sand? Foraging in the sand for shellfish? Taking a kayak or paddle board out for a spin? Enjoying an ice-cream on a sunny day while dipping your toes in the sea? Or just falling asleep to the sound of… well nothing but pure, unadulterated silence? That’s what we experienced while staying at Red Rock Cottage, and so much more.

Being pet friendly, it was awesome to bring our dog along with us, and I can’t be sure who enjoyed it more – us or her! The large fenced lawn with a view to watch people and dogs walking on the beach below kept her both entertained and safe while we sipped on drinks and enjoyed the views. The location of the cottage is perfect if you want to kick back, relax, and enjoy your surroundings. Whilst the cottage kitchen is well equipped and gorgeous, there is even a smattering of eateries and a dairy up the road to keep your bellies full if you can’t be bothered cooking for yourself. The hosts recommended the snapper burger from the local Fish and Chip shop, and it definitely did not disappoint!

The surrounding area is also certainly worth exploring – located near to the beautiful Āwhitu Peninsula, with its long stretches of black sand beaches, mesmerising views from the Manukau Heads Lighthouse and beautiful Regional Park, amongst many other attractions and activities. We even made time to indulge at the incredible Bersantai Day Spa at nearby Castaways Retreat.

So, if you’re looking for a perfect beach escape not far from the city to rest and recharge – look no further than Red Rock Cottage.