View point of green forest and long stretch of beach | New Zealand nature
Laughing toddler walking on the beach as the sun sets in the background
Aerial view of people digging their own hot pools at hot water beach
View point of green forest and long stretch of beach | New Zealand nature
Laughing toddler walking on the beach as the sun sets in the background
Aerial view of people digging their own hot pools at hot water beach
A paradise of pristine beaches and misty forests

Coromandel

Surrounded by a mountainous interior, misty forests, pristine beaches, volcanic activity, and adventurous hiking trails, Coromandel is a favourite holiday spot among New Zealanders. Not only because the peninsula is one of the most beautiful in the country but it also has sub-tropical weather and 400-kilometres of beach.

A thermal wonderland, relax in naturally heated mineral waters, hike The Pinnacles for 360-degree views of Coromandel and beyond, or kayak through clear waters of Cathedral Cove.

Where should you visit in Coromandel?

Beautiful beach with mountain in the background
Stroll on pristine beaches on the Coromandel Peninsula
View through a rock arch n the beach with a mountain in the background
Enjoy beautiful views

Where is Coromandel?

The peninsula is about a three-hour drive from Auckland in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. From Auckland, Coromandel is across the Hauraki Gulf. With a length of about 85 kilometres, the peninsula is the dividing line between the Gulf of Hauraki and the ocean.

Coromandel is a sparsely populated part of New Zealand with many bays, white sand beaches, islands, hilly landscapes, subtropical rainforests, and stunning views. The water is clear blue and you will find the New Zealand Christmas trees, called Pohutukawa, here. The trees have this nickname because of the green leaves with red flowers.

Aerial view of people digging their own hot pools at hot water beach
Create your own thermal bath at Hot Water Beach
© Graeme Murray
Two sailing boats on the ocean with mountains in the background | New Zealand active holiday
Go sailing in Coromandel, New Zealand's North Island

Whitianga

Whitianga is a town in the Waikato region of Coromandel, located in Mercury Bay. Surrounded by a harbour and fishing boats, it's a place where can choose to do a little or a lot.

Renowned for fishing, diving, or scenic cruising trips, it is fast becoming one of New Zealand's go-to summer holiday destinations. While it is great for all water sports, there are many other activities to choose from: bush walks, horse riding, art galleries, and nearby attractions like New Chums Beach.

A woman on a boat fishing in the water
Try fishing in Whitianga
Sailing boat on the ocean with the sun setting
Go on a beautiful sunset cruise

Coromandel Town

Coromandel Town is a coastal town on the Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand. The historic town has a unique character reflecting art and heritage and is a magnet for artists and craftspeople.

In 1852, the discovery of gold brought a boom to Coromandel Town and the area has continued to flourish since. With a laid-back vibe, you can enjoy quaint cafes and art galleries, jump on the Driving Creek Railway or venture out for the day on the Coromandel Coastal Walkway.

Empty bench to sit on and look out at the forest and beach
Take a break and enjoy spectacular views
View of a tree and rocks over the beach | New Zealand nature
Explore some of the best nature views in New Zealand

Things to see and do

Swimming, kayaking, and cycling are just a few of the activities you can enjoy in Coromandel. Hiking trails lead you to rocky outcrops where you can enjoy spectacular views. Or you can ride waves with surfers from around the world at Whangamata beach, famous for its surf breaks. And, spot different species of birds in the lush surrounding forests.

There are as many unique sights as there are things to do. The villages such as Whitianga and Coromandel Town are cosy places where you will find various museums and studios of artists. Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach, Waiau Falls, and Kauri Grove are also worth visiting.

Sunrise over the ocean | New Zealand holiday
Watch the sunrise on pristine beaches
Rolling green hills with the blue ocean in the background
Explore care-free with your family

Cathedral Cove

Cathedral Cove is one of the most picturesque places on the Coromandel Peninsula. It is a rocky formation, with an arch that was created naturally by the waves. A phenomenon that is popular among photographers, locals, and tourists alike.

It is accessible by boat or on foot and you can only walk under it at low tide. The longer route is a two-hour walk from Hahei beach for the adventurous. If you prefer to stroll at a relaxing pace, park your car in the Grange Road South car park and walk to Cathedral Cove in half an hour. For a more up close and personal experience you can kayak around this piece of paradise.

View through a rock archway of Cathedral cove
Visit the natural rock arch of Cathedral Cove
© TravelEssence
People kayaking on clear blue waters near the shoreline of the beach
Go kayaking on the clear blue water

Hot Water Beach

Hot Water Beach is a hot spring located south of Hahei. The hot water that rises through the sand is fresh and can sometimes be seen bubbling. Even though the water is bubbling, it is not boiling. The average temperature is around 60 to 65 degrees celsius.

This is an experience like no other. Almost like a do-it-yourself spa day on the beach. You can create your pool by digging a hole in the sand and filling it with the warm water from the underground river. Don't forget to take a shovel to dig this hole, because the water is too hot to do this with your hands.

Beach of golden sand, turquoise water and rocks in the water
Experience an atmosphere like nowhere else
© Matt Crawford
Family of four laying in a hot water pool at the beach
Dig your own spa pool
© Matt Crawford

Waiau Falls and Kauri Grove

Hike through a forest of ancient kauri trees to Waiau Falls, where you can swim in a pool under the falls. Kauri trees are among the oldest and tallest tree species in the world. They can live for hundreds of years but must be protected.

During the walk, it is important that you follow the footpath. This way you stay close to the giant kauri trees, but they remain untouched. It is also important that you thoroughly disinfect your hiking boots before and after visiting the forest.

Large trees with beautiful greenery in a forest
Walk through Kauri Grove
© TravelEssence
Two children hugging the base of an enormous kauri tree
Hug trees on a family adventure in kauri forest

Where to stay?

SAMPLE ITINERARIES A luxury lodge on the Coromandel Peninsula with friends

Coromandel, New Zealand

Nestled amongst native bush, overlooking Cooks Beach and the Shakespeare Scenic Reserve

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SAMPLE ITINERARIES A beautiful lodge on the waterfront

Coromandel, New Zealand

Stroll white sand beaches, and take in views of the bay from Shakespeare Cliff Lookout.

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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.