Things to Do on the Coromandel Peninsula - North Island, New Zealand
Updated: Jan 6, 2021
Explore Opoutere's coastal estuaries and forested lands.
Venture to Hot Water Beach and dig your own hot tub.
Hike down to Cathedral Cove to see its natural beauty.
Snorkel in the pristine waters.
Explore the surrounding villages.
Opoutere
The first stop on the peninsula was in the seaside town of Opoutere. The plan was to spend the week camping at the beautiful campsite adjacent to the stunning shores of the ocean and the turquoise waters of the harbor.
The time spent in Opoutere was some of the most memorable times I had in New Zealand. With some of the most picturesque beaches and estuaries, this remote location is a great place to unplug and unwind. From surfing, swimming, and kayaking in the crystal waters, to stargazing in the darkness of the night, and bird watching in the forests, this location is truly a one-of-a-kind getaway.
Hot Water Beach
A unique destination for most tourists that visit the Coromandels, Hot Water Beach is a must see destination. The beauty and uniquness of the area is unbeatable. Hot Water Beach is known for, you guessed it, hot water! With geothermal vents underneath the sands surface, there are pockets of hot water that emurge from the sand, allowing beachgoers to dig their own hot tub.
Although, be warned that it is called Hot Water Beach for a reason. The water that comes from beneath the sand is boiling hot, so mixing it with the ocean water is your best bet at getting the perfect "hot tub" temperature. Or you could be like me and burn your butt off! The entire experience was very memorable and a fun time for all.
Cathedral Cove
Another remarkable tourist destination, Cathedral Cove a stunning natural formation that has been made famous for its appearances in many popular films. The cove itself is stunning and grand, and the surrounding oceans are just as beautiful. It is about a 45 minute walk to Cathedral Cove, with stunning views throughout and multiple places on the coast to stop along the way, such as the stunning Stringray Bay. If you are snorkeling savy, this is more than the perfect place to put your skills to use, as the crystal blue waters make for an unforgettable experience.
Surrounding Villages
Hahei and Whitianga
When not exploring the famous landmarks of the region, we spent our time moseying through the nearby villages and taking in the beautiful scenery. The nearby town of Hahei is a beachside village full of dive shops, expedition opportunities, and cafes galore. Similarly, across the harbor, just a quick ferry ride away, is the quaint town of Whitianga, full of similar adventures. There is a lot to see in this region, so do not be scared to pull onto the beaten path and see what picturesque views you may discover.
Accommodations
Although on a budget for accommodations, we were able to book a campsite at the beautiful Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park, just steps away from the renowned beach. The park has a range of accommodation styles, from private cabins to powered and unpowered campsites, with facilities for everyone on site. The grounds and facilities were very well kept, and the park had a very serene feel to it. My experience there was beyond excellent and I would recommend the park in a heartbeat! There are many other accommodations in the area, including affordable campsites. However, I found that the proximity to the beach and the appeal of the grounds made this particular park a home run.
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