11 Best Things to do in Hahei (2026 Guide)

Hahei might look tiny on the map, but it’s full of adventure, epic views, and some of the best things to do on the Coromandel.

From the famous Cathedral Cove walk to hidden bays and one of my personal favourites, the Explorer boat tour, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

I’ve spent a lot of time exploring Hahei and the surrounding area, so I know where to go for epic views, fun water adventures, and quiet spots most people miss.

This is for anyone who actually wants to get out there and experience Hahei, not just snap a quick photo on the beach.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or a few nights, you’ll find adventure ideas, insider tips, and a few underrated gems that make it special.

By the end, you’ll know exactly where to go to get the most out of your time, and maybe even discover a spot you’ll want to come back to again and again.

1. Visit Cathedral Cove – the iconic thing to do in Hahei

If there is anywhere in the Coromandel that almost everyone knows about it is Cathedral Cove. This iconic spot has been made famous by its incredible arch way that connects the two beaches.

Known for being a filming location for The Chronicles of Narnia movies, it is easy to see why this fairytale like place is one of the best things to do in Hahei.

Snap that unforgettable photo in the arch with the rock pillars standing tall in the background. Then, explore the other side and look back down the beach to enjoy the arch from a different angle.

Don’t forget to sit back and relax. The stunning white sand and sparkling blue waters make this beach a great place to chill out for the day.

My top tip is to come here earlier in the morning before all the crowds show up. I do love this spot but it isn’t as enjoyable when it’s packed with people.

There is about a 45 minute walk from the drop off zone at the top of the cliffs down to the beach. This walk is not difficult but it does get a bit hilly.

3. the Hahei Explorer – Most Unique thing to do

Eager to explore more of the coastline around Hahei? Then the Hahei Explorer is the best activity for you to do.

Jump on board a 10 person boat and enjoy the ride as you get taken to all the best spots accessible by boat. Visit Orua Sea Cave, Mahurangi Island and of course Cathedral Cove.

Only one hour long, this tour is great for those that want to see a whole lot of cool spots in a short amount of time.

The crew is awesome and they will ensure you have a fun experience while also learning a lot about the area at the same time. If you are lucky you might even spot some cool wildlife along the way.

I loved this tour and will always recommend it to anyone spending a bit of time in Hahei.

I would suggest booking your tour for 2 hours either side of low tide as some of the caves are accessible at high tide.

The Hahei Explorer departs from the south end of the beach six times a day in summer and 4 times in winter.

4. Cathedral Cove Kayaks Tour

Exploring the coast with Cathedral Cove Kayaks is one of the most adventurous ways to enjoy this beautiful area of the Coromandel.

Cathedral Cove Kayaks have been operating since 1999 sharing the stunning coastline with visitors in a fun, informative and sustainable way.

Operating all year round, Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours caters to all ages, nationalities and abilities.

Tours run for 3 hours beginning and ending on Hahei Beach. You with then kayak out with your group to Te Wanganui O Hei Marine Reserve to explore the abundance of beaches, islands and rock gardens.

Stop for refreshments at the iconic Cathedral Cove and take in the breathtaking surroundings.

The Cathedral Cove Kayaks team ensure safety is at the top of their priority list for everyone on the tour. Double kayaks are also used ensure children and the whole family can have fun while keeping safe at the same time.

5. Spend the evening at Pour house

After a long day exploring in the sun, there is nothing better than a nice cold drink and great meal.

The Pour house is a family friendly craft brewery, distillery, bar and restaurant right in the heart of Hahei.

With plenty of covered outdoor seating, The Pour House is a very popular option for everyone in the area. Relax with family, friends and even pets in this beautiful garden setting.

Order a tasty pizza and drink, then enjoy your surroundings and finish off the day in the best way.

Usually I’ll grab some nibbles and a drink from here after a day at the beach.

During the holidays The Pour House can get busy, so please book in advance.

6. Visit the Art Gallery

The Lawnmowers Son is an art gallery located in the middle of town and has a range of art, jewellery, sculptures and garden art.

A visit to the Lawnmowers is a great little extra thing to do while in Hahei. The gallery may be small but it does showcase some of the best art from a wide range of New Zealand artists.

Spend some time here if you love checking out some local artwork, or as an awesome rainy day activity.

7. Beach Hop – Best Free thing to do in Hahei

The Coromandel is a popular holiday spot mostly because of its wide range of stunning beaches. From quiet coves to lively surf beaches, it’s no surprise that the Coromandel has some of the best beaches in New Zealand.

Visiting these beaches is very easy and spending the day beach hopping is a great thing to do to see the best beaches the Coromandel has to offer.

You don’t have to drive far to some of these beaches either. These include Cooks Beach, Lonely Bay and the very popular Hot Water Beach. You could aslo check out the view at the Shakespeare Lookout.

If you don’t mind traveling a bit further then Crayfish Bay and New Chums Beach are also awesome spots to visit.

Spending time on Hahei Beach is a great thing to do on its own. But it is definitely worth making the time to visit some of the many cool beaches in the Coromandel.

8. Snorkel/diving tour – Most Adventurous thing to do in Hahei

Looking to get in the water and see the marine life? Then Cathedral Cove Dive and Snorkel is the thing to do.

Offering scuba diving and snorkelling, Cathedral Cove Dive and Snorkel take trips both into the marine reserve and to other areas along the coastline.

Home to some of the best diving and snorkelling spots in the Coromandel, the underwater scenery off Hahei certainly doesn’t disappoint. There is everything from huge fish and crayfish, to eels, stingrays and colourful sponges.

The dive trips, for certified divers, go out up to 3 times a day. All levels of divers are welcome and catered for through the wide range of dive spots.

The snorkelling trips are perfect for those who love the underwater world but do not have dive qualifications. Experience the stunning marine life with highly trained instructors helping you to enjoy your beautiful surroundings.

9. Relax on Hahei Beach

One of the most simple and laid back things to do in Hahei is to spend a day at the beach.

The soft white sand makes for a perfect spot to set up for the day with sections of the beach also having shade from the trees for those that need it.

There is also plenty of space for beach games due to the large size and length of the sandy area on the Beach.

The water here is generally calm and safe but sometimes waves can be a little strong. Children should always be supervised in the water. In summer, lifeguards are on patrol so please swim between the flags.

11. Explore the Rock pools

At the south end of Hahei Beach you will find a large rocky area at the base of the cliffs. At low tide this area turns into an awesome spot for rock pools where you can look for a variety of marine life.

This simple activity is one thing a lot of people don’t even think about doing and many people don’t even head down to this end of the beach.

Crabs, small fish and colourful shells are jut some of the cool finds in the rock pools.

Please remember to not take anything from the beach or rock pools and leave them as you found them.