Is there anything better than a sunny weekend drive with your family? 

There's nothing quite like adventuring, taking in the sights, and experiencing a new place together. 

In our family weekend drives are a must! The rising petrol price keeps us closer to home these days, but I can't complain the Matakana Coast has so many stunning hidden gems that even as someone who grew up here, I'm still finding places I've never been. 

This weekend we decided to head out to Scotts Landing.  

Leaving the incoming Matakana traffic in our dust we headed off, the sun shining lead us straight into The Food Market for a quick stop to grab two of the biggest most delicious real fruit ice-creams and some of the best coffee we have ever had.

This place is a must-visit if you're going to Snells Beach – Pro tip order the large ice cream and order it with white chocolate chips.

Ice creams in hand we set off again as you head toward Scotts landing the views are breathtaking on one side you have rolling hills and farmlands and on the other, the glistening sea, the gravel road as you get closer is in bad shape but safe to drive with caution.  

Just a 15 min drive from snells beach will take you to a spot that feels much further away, as we arrived the car park was full but to our surprise all the cars parked were boatys there were only two people fishing off the wharf and one alone on the secluded sheltered beach. 

The panoramic views are breathtaking. 

Scott‘s Homestead is an iconic refurbished colonial heritage building originating in 1877 and owned by the Auckland council as part of the regional park when you arrive at Scotts Landing you don’t see the homestead or the majestic beach as it is tucked around the corner the beach lies in front of the Homestead and is lined with amazing, huge trees to rest under and then there is Casnell Island which can be visited by walking across to it at low tide.

This is a beautiful spot for a family to spend the day, it's full of history.

Scott's Landing is one of this area's best-kept secrets and the perfect place for a weekend picnic. 

So, if you're thinking of heading to the beach on the next sunny day but want to avoid the crowds why not try Scotts Landing? 

If you would like to learn more about the history of Scotts Landing you can here. History – Scotts Landing