Best Things To Do In The Coromandel
Discover the diverse attractions that make the Coromandel Peninsula a must-visit destination in New Zealand. Picturesque Coromandel Town nestles beneath rugged, craggy hills at the head of Coromandel Harbour—a historic mining town that exudes old-world charm.
One of its standout attractions is the Driving Creek Railway, a unique 1-hour narrow-gauge train ride built mostly by hand, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the region.
Explore additional local gems like The Waterworks, a fun-filled attraction that showcases the best of Kiwi ingenuity.
Whitianga serves as the vibrant gateway to Mercury Bay, renowned for its gorgeous white-sand beaches and world-class water activities. This lively town is not only an ideal holiday destination but also a perfect base for day trips to some of the peninsula’s most iconic spots.
Visit Cathedral Cove, a stunning geological formation with one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, and Hot Water Beach, famous for its natural hot springs where you can dig your own spa pool in the sand.
For those eager to explore further, Pauanui and Tairua offer superb coastal and bush scenery ideal for kayaking, sailing, swimming, and diving. You can also discover Whangamata, where the beach lifestyle is celebrated, or head to Waihi to delve into its rich gold mining past with tours of the Martha Mine and the historic Karangahake Gorge.
With an abundance of attractions and experiences, the Coromandel Peninsula truly promises something unforgettable for every traveller.
Hot Water Beach Coromandel
Free Things To Do In the Coromandel
The Coromandel is just as rewarding when you keep your wallet in your pocket. Between boat trips and scenic flights, carve out time for cliff-top lookouts, waterfall walks and long, dune-backed beaches. Most ideas below need nothing more than comfy shoes and a water bottle; a few work best at low tide or in calmer weather. We’ve noted where to start, how long to allow, and why it’s worth it so you can plan at a glance—and still leave room for a spontaneous swim.
If you’re new to the area or travelling with kids, we’ve kept directions simple, flagged any tide/parking quirks, and highlighted easy options first—so everyone’s excited before you even set out.
1) Cathedral Cove Walk (Mautohe)
Start/Access: From Hahei township. Use the Hahei Visitor Carpark and walk or take the local shuttle up to the track start (no parking at the top in peak times). Private parking and walking access may be available via Lees Road—follow on-site signage.
Time needed: ~90 minutes return, or 2.5–3 hours with photo/swim stops.
Why go: The first reveal through the arch to chalk cliffs and cobalt water is a signature Coromandel moment.
Tips: Go early or late for softer light. Carry water and sun protection. Track conditions can change after rough weather—check local advice on the day.
2) Hot Water Beach
Start/Access: Signed parking near the main beach; hot springs bubble up in the sand towards the southern end.
Time needed: 1–2 hours centred on low tide (the sweet spot is roughly an hour either side).
Why go: Dig your own seaside spa and use the ocean as a cold plunge—only in the Coromandel.
Tips: Bring or hire a spade. Test sand temperature before sitting. Keep an eye on waves and children—hot patches shift with the tide.
3) New Chums Beach (Wainuiototo)
Start/Access: Park at Whangapoua. Walk from the northern end of the beach; there’s a shallow stream crossing and a rocky section—easiest near low tide.
Time needed: 30–40 minutes each way; allow 2–3 hours to explore and take the lookout spur.
Why go: An undeveloped crescent of sand with zero shops or houses—pure soundtrack of waves and birds.
Tips: Wear sturdy footwear and carry water; there are no facilities. The spur to the lookout is short but uneven—worth it for the view.
4) Mount Paku Summit (Tairua)
Start/Access: Short, steep path from the Mount Paku Road area (limited street parking; be considerate).
Time needed: 45–60 minutes return, plus time to soak in the panorama.
Why go: Big views of Tairua Harbour, Pauanui and offshore islands for modest effort—golden hour is magic.
Tips: Steps can be slippery after rain. No toilets on the track—plan ahead.
5) Shakespeare Cliff Lookout & Lonely Bay (Cooks Beach area)
Start/Access: Drive from Cooks Beach via Purangi Road to Shakespeare Cliff Reserve (short walk to the lookout). A side track leads down to Lonely Bay.
Time needed: 45–90 minutes depending on beach time.
Why go: Wide Mercury Bay panoramas up top, then a tucked-away pocket of white sand below.
Tips: Bring a picnic and swim gear. Shade arrives in the afternoon. Combine with Cooks Beach or Ferry Landing for an easy half-day.
6) Wentworth Falls Track (Whangamata)
Start/Access: From the DOC campground at the end of Wentworth Valley Road; well-graded riverside track with bridges.
Time needed: 2.5–3 hours return to the falls (many do it a touch faster—leave time to linger).
Why go: Twin-tier falls, ferny gullies and birdsong—an ideal family walk.
Tips: Keep kids close near drop-offs and wet rocks. Dogs must be on a lead if permitted—check signage at the trailhead.
7) Karangahake Gorge Windows Walk
Start/Access: Signposted walks beside SH2 in Karangahake Gorge; the Windows Walk is a loop through old gold-mining tunnels with cliff-edge “windows” above the river.
Time needed: About 1 hour for the loop.
Why go: History you can walk through—swing bridges, tunnels, and emerald river views.
Tips: Bring a torch or phone light. Tracks can close after heavy rain—check local notices if the weather’s been rough.
8) Orokawa Bay from Waihi Beach
Start/Access: From the northern end of Waihi Beach; the coastal track undulates to Orokawa Bay. Very high tide or strong swell can make the first section tricky.
Time needed: 45–60 minutes each way; allow 2–3 hours to picnic and swim.
Why go: A wild, pohutukawa-framed bay with big skies and a “world-away” feel.
Tips: No facilities—pack water, snacks and sun protection. Continue towards Homunga Bay if you want a longer adventure.
9) Opoutere Beach
Start/Access: Park near the Opoutere/Wharekawa Harbour entrance. Cross the footbridge and follow the sandy track through pines to the beach (toilets at the trailhead).
Time needed: 30–90 minutes depending on how far you wander (the official beach track is an easy 1.4 km return).
Why go: Long, dune-backed sands with hardly anyone—just surf, sky and birds.
Tips: Respect dotterel nesting areas near the estuary—give them space and obey seasonal signs.
10) Hahei Beach & Lookout
Start/Access: Park in Hahei and follow the signposted path to the coastal lookout above the northern end of the beach (separate to the full Cathedral Cove track).
Time needed: 45–75 minutes out-and-back with time at the viewpoint; add a beach swim.
Why go: Classic Coromandel coastline views without committing to the full Cathedral Cove walk—plus a superb family beach day.
Tips: Early morning and late afternoon are quieter and prettier. Take care on dry, dusty sections.
11) Pinnacles Summit via Kauaeranga Kauri Trail (advanced – free walk)
Start/Access: Drive up Kauaeranga Valley Road from Thames to the signed trailheads (Webb Creek/Billygoat) past the visitor centre. Expect some gravel sections and fords; take care after heavy rain.
Time needed: Strong full-day hike — allow 6–7 hours return to the summit, or make it an overnight using the Pinnacles Hut (hut fees apply; the walk itself is free).
Why go: A classic Coromandel tramp with swing bridges, staircase-like stone steps and laddered rock near the top. The 360° summit panorama over ridgelines and valleys is a proper “wow” moment.
Tips: Treat this as a backcountry outing: good fitness, sturdy footwear, 2–3L of water, snacks, layers, and a head torch. Start early for cooler temps and time at the top. Check local track/road conditions after wet weather, and be ready to turn back if rivers are high.
Make the most of your day’s in the Coromandel
After the beaches and lookouts, finish with something you can’t DIY: a glass-bottom boat into caves and blowholes, a guided kayak at golden hour, or a short boat cruise that hits the best angles without the crowds. Perfect for first-timers and families—all gear sorted, friendly local guides, and easy start points around Hahei, Whitianga and Tairua. You get the stories, the safety, and zero guesswork on tides or parking.
Make it effortless ? See tours & availability above
