The town is well known as a favourite summer time holiday resort with 50% of the houses being holiday homes. The permanent population of 4000 swells to over 50,000 during the summer months.

The benefit of holding an event like this in Whangamata is that the town is geared to handle large crowds with many motels, cafés, bars and restaurants.

A large number of holiday homes are also available for rental on a casual basis providing a ready source of accommodation options.

The town is perhaps best known for its beautiful sandy beaches, surfing, fishing and diving. Water based recreation is popular hence local water safety organisations are the recipients of any Beach Hop profits.