About
Escape to Watercliff, a luxury glamping retreat near Tauranga, where 4 private, architect-designed cabins overlook the beautiful Omanawa River. Surrounded by native bush, dramatic cliffs and peaceful riverside scenery, Watercliff offers a secluded Bay of Plenty getaway with the comforts of modern accommodation.
Located approximately 20 minutes from Tauranga, this off-grid retreat is ideal for romantic escapes, relaxing weekends, nature lovers and families wanting to reconnect outdoors. Enjoy a private outdoor bath, explore bush tracks and swimming holes, or simply unwind on your deck while listening to the river and native birds.
Each self-contained cabin has been thoughtfully designed to combine comfort, privacy and environmentally conscious living, making Watercliff a distinctive glamping experience in Tauranga.
Why Choose Watercliff?
- Luxury Glamping Near Tauranga: Four beautifully designed cabins in a peaceful riverside setting.
- Private Outdoor Baths: Three cabins feature outdoor bathtubs, ideal for relaxing beneath the stars.
- Off-Grid Comfort: Solar-powered accommodation with modern bathrooms, kitchenettes and heating.
- Stunning Natural Surroundings: Native bush, dramatic cliffs, a waterfall and swimming holes.
- Romantic Getaways: Private cabins designed for couples seeking relaxation and time together.
- Family-Friendly Option: The Hangout accommodates up to four guests.
- Convenient Location: Approximately 20 minutes from Tauranga, with Mount Maunganui and Bay of Plenty attractions within reach.
Four Luxury Glamping Cabins at Watercliff
Watercliff offers four individually designed cabins, each providing a different way to enjoy its spectacular natural surroundings.
The View – Riverside Glamping with an Outdoor Bath
Perfect for couples, The View offers beautiful outlooks across the Omanawa River and surrounding cliffs.
Relax in the outdoor bathtub on your private deck, enjoy a morning coffee overlooking the river or follow the nearby track to a secluded swimming spot.
Sleeps: 2 adults.
The Nest – Romantic Couples Retreat
The Nest is a cosy, north-facing cabin designed for privacy and relaxation.
Expansive glass doors open onto a private deck with an outdoor bathtub and views across fern-covered riverbanks. It’s an inviting setting for a romantic weekend or peaceful escape from everyday life.
Sleeps: 2 adults.
The Hangout – Family-Friendly Glamping
The Hangout is Watercliff’s largest cabin, designed for families, friends and small groups.
With indoor and outdoor dining for four, comfortable sleeping arrangements and a private deck overlooking the river, it offers space to relax together.
Enjoy board games, outdoor activities and time exploring the surrounding bush and river.
Sleeps: Up to 4 adults.
The Getaway – Secluded Bush Retreat
Surrounded by native trees and lush ferns, The Getaway is a private sanctuary for couples wanting to slow down and reconnect.
Enjoy birdsong, a peaceful bush setting and a relaxing soak in your outdoor bathtub. The cabin also includes self-catering facilities and a BBQ for easy meals.
Sleeps: 2 adults.
Comfortable, Self-Contained Off-Grid Accommodation
Watercliff combines environmentally conscious design with the everyday comforts guests expect from a luxury stay.
Cabin features include:
- Comfortable beds and quality furnishings
- Modern bathrooms with flushing toilets
- Kitchenettes with cooking facilities, fridge and sink
- Heat pumps for year-round comfort
- Private decks with outdoor seating
- BBQ facilities
- Solar-powered electricity and battery storage
- Filtered rainwater systems
- Thoughtful finishing touches and selected local products
The cabins are designed to minimise environmental impact without sacrificing comfort.
Whether enjoying breakfast on the deck or watching the changing light across the valley, Watercliff offers a relaxing alternative to conventional Tauranga accommodation.
Outdoor Baths, River Swimming & Nature Walks
One of the highlights of staying at Watercliff is the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Omanawa Valley.
Follow bush tracks through native vegetation, discover the riverbank and enjoy the property’s peaceful surroundings.
Depending on conditions, guests can explore swimming holes, visit the waterfall and find quiet places to relax beside the river.
In the evenings, unwind beneath the stars, listen for native birds and enjoy the tranquillity of this secluded location.
For couples, Watercliff offers a romantic escape. For families, it’s an opportunity to spend quality time together outdoors.
Explore Tauranga & the Bay of Plenty
Watercliff feels wonderfully secluded while remaining within easy reach of Tauranga and popular Bay of Plenty attractions.
Spend a day exploring Mount Maunganui’s beaches, discover nearby walking tracks or enjoy the restaurants, cafés and activities around Tauranga.
McLaren Falls Park is another popular destination for scenic walks, picnics and nature experiences.
For more inspiration, explore our Bay of Plenty Travel Guide for places to visit and things to do during your stay.
Book Direct with Watercliff
Planning a romantic weekend, luxury glamping holiday or peaceful escape near Tauranga?
Choose from four beautifully designed cabins and experience the natural beauty of the Omanawa River in comfort.
Book Direct with Watercliff to explore the cabins, check booking options and plan your Bay of Plenty getaway.
Location
Where you'll find them
80 Lawry Lane, Omanawa, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty, 3171, New Zealand
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Where is Watercliff located?
Watercliff is located in Omanawa, approximately 20 minutes from Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty. The retreat sits beside the Omanawa River, surrounded by native bush and dramatic cliffs.
Is Watercliff a luxury glamping retreat?
Yes. Watercliff offers four architect-designed, self-contained off-grid cabins with modern comforts, private decks and beautiful natural surroundings.
Do the Watercliff cabins have outdoor baths?
The View, The Nest and The Getaway feature private outdoor bathtubs. The Hangout is designed for families and small groups, with indoor and outdoor living spaces.
Is Watercliff suitable for a romantic getaway?
Yes. Three cabins accommodate two adults and offer private settings ideal for couples seeking a peaceful or romantic escape near Tauranga.
Can families stay at Watercliff?
Yes. The Hangout accommodates up to four guests and is particularly suitable for families. Other cabins may accommodate a young child in a BYO portacot by arrangement.
Are the cabins fully self-contained?
Yes. Watercliff cabins include kitchenettes, bathrooms, heating, BBQ facilities and comfortable furnishings, allowing guests to enjoy an independent stay.
What does off-grid accommodation mean at Watercliff?
The cabins use solar-generated electricity with battery storage and purified rainwater. They are designed to operate independently while providing modern accommodation comforts.
Can guests swim in the Omanawa River?
Watercliff has access to riverside areas and swimming holes. Guests should follow property guidance and assess river and weather conditions before swimming.
Is Wi-Fi available at Watercliff?
Wi-Fi is available at reception, while mobile reception around the cabins can be patchy. Watercliff is particularly suited to guests looking to disconnect and enjoy nature.
How do I book a cabin at Watercliff?
Visit the official Watercliff website to explore the four cabins and follow the booking links to check availability and reserve your preferred accommodation.
Enquire
Nearby
Things to do nearby
Activities and tours nearby that pair well with your stay.
Bay of Plenty Fishing Guide | Miles Rushmer Guiding
Kewpie Cruises, Tauranga
Sunair Aviation Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Bay Explorer Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Rotorua Rafting: Kaituna River White Water Rafting & Free Sauna
Rotorua Ziplines: Zipline Over Waterfalls