Arkles is a very popular, child friendly safe beach yet you are tucked away from the crowds at the end of the bay in this little piece of "paradise". Just up the hill (a 2 minute drive or a 10 minute walk) is the Whangaparaoa Mall with supermarket, chemist, Banks, restaurants, cinemas and more. A pleasant walk around the lake to a children's playground and on to the sleepy Weiti Marina. Quaint Manly Village just a few minutes away by car and a little further on to Gulf Harbour Marina and Shakespear Park with its sheltered bays and fine walks across open farmland and bush. Pack a picnic and catch the ferry to Tiritiri Matangi from Gulf Harbour. "Tiri" is a world renowned open sanctuary. Other day trips could include a trip to Waiwera Hot Pools and on to the historic Bohemian village of Puhoi and a visit to the Puhoi Cheese Factory. Further north to Warkworth, Matakana, Goat Island Marine Reserve and numerous vineyards.