19 of the Best Coromandel Beaches – 2026 Summer Guide
Exploring the best Coromandel beaches is such a classic summer thing for so many Kiwis, including me. I spend most of my summers up here, so I am a bit biased, but I really do think the Coromandel has the best beaches in all of New Zealand.
There are the well-known popular spots, the random hidden bays you only hear about from locals, and everything in between.
I’ve been to almost all of them over the years, and they all have something a little special going on. I don’t think there’s one “best” beach, but if I had to choose, Otama is my favourite.
If you’re keen on hidden gems, places like Pokohino and Crayfish Bay are awesome. And if you want to explore a bit further out, Port Jackson and Fletcher Bay are super underrated and worth the mission.
Have a look through the beaches below and pick out which ones you’re adding to your next Coromandel trip. You might find a new favourite.
The Best Coromandel Beaches
1. Cathedral Cove – Coromandel’s Famous Beach
Cathedral Cove is one of those beaches everyone wants to tick off when they’re in the Coromandel. The huge archway that splits the two beaches is the main drawcard, it’s the photo spot of the whole area.
The moment you walk onto the sand, you’ll get why it’s so famous. It’s honestly stunning. Think soft white sand, bright blue water, and those big rock formations that make the whole place feel a bit unreal.
It’s not just a pretty spot either, the swimming here is so good. The water is usually super clear, and jumping in after the walk down is the best feeling.
Both beaches on either side of the arch have heaps of room to stretch out on the sand. If you want some shade, the pohutukawa trees along the cliffs are perfect for hiding from the sun for a bit.
Getting down there takes around 45 minutes from the carpark. The track has a few up and down sections, but it’s totally doable at an easy pace.
To get to Cathedral Cove, you’ll head in through Hahei. If you’re planning to make a weekend of it, Hahei has plenty to keep you busy, plus some really good places to stay.
2. Crayfish Bay
If you want a spot that feels like a tropical Pacific Island without leaving the Coromandel, Crayfish Bay is worth a visit.
It’s not really a traditional beach, there’s no sandy area, but it’s still an awesome place to swim. The water is clear and emerald green, and the rocky shoreline makes it feel a bit adventurous.
You can climb the white cliffs on the right-hand side and find some flat spots to hang out. The climb can be a bit steep in places, so go up carefully, but the view from the top is worth it. From there, you can look down at the bay and see just how incredible the water looks on a sunny day.
Around the corner from the main cliff, there’s a spot where people do some cliff jumping. There are attachments on the rocks so you can safely climb back up after a jump.
Getting to Crayfish Bay is simple. From Opito Bay, there’s a short, easy walk down the beach and through a small section of farmland. The track is flat and beginner friendly, making it a quick and scenic stroll to this hidden gem.
Because it’s a bit off the usual tourist routes, it usually stays quiet even in summer, so you can enjoy a more peaceful swim and a bit of adventure all in one spot.
3. Hahei Beach
Hahei is a popular beach town for visitors who want to explore a few of the well known sites and beaches in the Coromandel. Not only is the town a great place to base yourself, but the beach here is also fantastic.
Along this large stretch of beach you will find rope swings, many shady trees and flat grassy spots to set up a picnic for the day. The water is also supervised by lifeguards making it a lot safer for families to enjoy.
Combine the tropical water and soft sand with easy access to accomodation and small shops, you have a pretty great spot to spend the day.
If you like a bit of adventure, head to the southern end of the beach and walk out to Te Pare Point. The views are stunning from here as you can see right up and down the coast.
Many people skip Hahei Beach and instead opt for the more popular Cathedral cove, located just over the hill. However, it is one of those beaches that is amazing in its own way and should not be missed on your next trip to the Coromandel.
4. New Chums Beach
Nestled quietly around the corner from Whangapoua sits New Chums Beach. This little hidden gem is a local favourite and has been a go to spot for many adventure seeking kiwis over the years.
New Chums is one of my favourite beaches in the Coromandel. It has gotten a lot more popular since it blew up on social media, so it can get really busy in the peak holiday period.
I still love coming here, I just try to avoid the busiest weeks of summer.
The beach feels incredibly untouched, which is the main reason people love it. It’s only a 30–40 minute walk from Whangapoua, but once you arrive, it feels like you’ve found a hidden little world.
There’s also a short track that heads up the cliff to the lookout. The view from the top is amazing and easily one of the best photo spots in the area.
There are no facilities at New Chums, so make sure you bring what you need and take all your rubbish out with you. Keeping it clean helps protect that untouched feeling it’s known for.
5. Port Jackson
Port Jackson is one of those places that honestly feels like a tiny slice of Coromandel magic. We come camping up here every year, and it’s become one of those spots I look forward to the moment summer rolls around.
It takes a bit of effort to get to, usually around an hour’s drive from Coromandel Town, and the road gets pretty windy and narrow as you get closer. But that’s all part of the experience.
Once you arrive, it completely pays off. The beach stretches right around the bay with calm, clear water and those big green hills wrapping around the coastline. Mornings up here are unreal, flat water, soft golden light, and the kind of quiet that you don’t realise you needed until you’re standing in it.
It’s the perfect place to switch into slow mode. Most days are spent swimming, wandering the beach, reading in front of the tent, or just watching the sun move across the hills.
Camping at Port Jackson feels super simple in the best way. You fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up with the sun creeping over the hills. Even after all the times I’ve been, it still feels special every single visit.
If you’re chasing that classic, peaceful Coromandel summer, this is exactly where you want to be.
6. Pokohino Beach
If you’re looking for a beach that still feels untouched, Pokohino Beach is a must-visit in the Coromandel. It’s the perfect spot if you want to escape the crowds at Whangamata or Onemana.
Getting there is part of the adventure, you’ll drive along a forestry road and then follow a 20-minute walk down to the beach.
It’s a bit of a hidden gem, and there’s plenty to explore when you arrive. Think caves, small cliff jumps, and rock pools.
The sand here is some of the softest you’ll find in the area, perfect for beach games or just lying back and soaking it all in. The water gets deep pretty quickly, and there’s often wildlife to spot, if you’re lucky, you might see dolphins or even orcas swimming by.
Pokohino is much more isolated than most of the other popular beaches, so it rarely gets crowded, except over the busy Christmas and New Year period. It’s one of those beaches that feels like your own little secret corner of the Coromandel.
7. Otama Beach
Otama Beach is one of the quieter beaches in the Coromandel and easily one of my favourites. About a 30-minute drive from Whitianga, it hasn’t been developed like some of the nearby towns, just a few scattered baches along the shore, which makes it feel really peaceful.
The sand dunes create a natural barrier between the beach and the road, giving it a hidden, almost private vibe. Add in the sound of the waves and the local wildlife, and it feels like a little sanctuary.
There’s plenty to do here too. The rope swing is always a hit, the Pohutukawa trees provide some nice shade, and at the far end of the beach there’s a calm estuary. It’s a great spot for the whole family to spend the day.
I like coming to Otama even during the busy summer holidays because it doesn’t get as crowded as other beaches. It’s long, so there’s always space to spread out and find your own quiet spot.
You can get to Otama Beach via Black Jack Road, a gravel road that links it to Kūaotunu.
8. Hot Water Beach – Most Unique of the Coromandel Beaches
Hot Water Beach is probably the second most famous beach in the Coromandel, and it’s easy to see why. The sand here hides naturally heated water that bubbles up from underground, making it a must-do stop on any Coromandel road trip.
One of the most popular things to do is dig your own hot pool right in the sand. The best spot is around the rocks between the two main beach areas, and the ideal time is about two hours either side of high tide.
Bring a spade so you can dig out your personal little spa. If you don’t have one, you can hire them from local shops or the nearby campground. Once your pool is ready, you can relax in the warm water while listening to the waves crash just a few metres away
Even when the tide isn’t right for digging, Hot Water Beach is still perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just enjoying the scenery.
There are also a few cafés and shops nearby, so it’s easy to grab a coffee, snack, or ice cream while you’re here.
It’s one of those spots that often makes the list when people are looking for the best activities in the Coromandel. Spending a day here is an experience that’s hard to beat and a highlight for anyone visiting the area.
Related Read: If you like hot pools then check out The Lost Spring, Whitianga.
9. Shelly Beach
Shelly Beach is on the western side of the Coromandel Peninsular, opposite to many of the other recommended beaches. It also has a completely different vibe due to its much calmer waters and and assortment of shells on the beach.
Located only a 5 minute drive from Coromandel Town, Shelly beach is a great spot to visit for a family friendly day out. The beach may be a bit smaller than most but it never gets as busy as the east coast.
The water is much calmer here and it is pretty much always flat just like many of the beaches on the western side of the coromandel. This is due to Auckland being directly across from the beach.
The Top 10 Holiday Park is the perfect place to stay here. It is right on the beach and has many other family oriented features such as a a playground and swimming pool.
10. Ocean Beach, Tairua
Ocean Beach, also known as Tairua Beach, is one of the quieter beaches in the Coromandel, often overshadowed by Pauanui just across the water. It’s a favourite with surfers and with anyone staying in Tairua over summer.
The beach itself is really spacious, so it’s easy to find a good spot to spread out and relax. Swimming here is always fun, the waves break close to shore, so you get that classic “dive under the wave” moment over and over.
It’s only a couple of minutes’ drive back into Tairua, which makes life pretty easy. You can duck into town for food, grab some snacks for a beach picnic, or just pick up anything you forgot to pack.
Because it’s a surf beach, the conditions can change quickly. Make sure you follow the advice of the local lifeguards and swim between the flags.
11. Matarangi Beach
Matarangi Beach is one of the more developed beaches in the Coromandel. It is a very popular spot for visitors from Auckland and many have baches here.
This 4 kilometre beach is situated on a sand spit surrounded by bright blue water. The sea here is perfect for swimming, surfing, fishing and a wide range of water sports. If you prefer not to go into the water then there is plenty of soft sand to relax on, on the beach.
Providing many of the comforts of home, Matarangi Beach has a small super market (Four Square) as well as a cafe/restaurant. There is also a golf course which is very popular in the summer time.
Matarangi prides itself in being a family friendly town. With well connected walking and cycling tracks, playgrounds and tennis courts, it is no surprise that this beach is such a popular spot.
12. Opito Bay
Opito Bay is one of the more underrated beaches in the Coromandel, but that’s part of its charm.
It’s a great beach for swimming, the water is clear, usually calm, and quite sheltered, making it perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.
The shallow water means it’s safe for kids or anyone who just wants to paddle. In summer, there’s a pontoon you can swim out to and jump off, which is always a lot of fun.
At the far end of the beach, there’s a walk up to Opito Point Pā. The climb is fairly steep, but the views from the top are worth it. From the Pā, you get 360-degree views of the beach, nearby islands, and surrounding bays.
13. Pauanui Beach – Most Family Friendly of the Coromandel Beaches
Pauanui Beach is one of the Coromandel’s most popular spots, and for good reason. The long, sandy shoreline is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just wandering along the water.
It’s busy in summer, but the beach is big enough that you can usually find your own space.
The water is generally calm, great for families and swimmers, while the waves at the surf break are ideal if you want to try your hand at surfing. At low tide, the sandbars and estuary areas are fun to explore, making it more than just a place to swim.
With Pauanui town right behind the beach, it’s easy to grab a coffee, a snack, or anything you need for the day. The cafés, shops, and local facilities make it super convenient, especially if you’re spending the whole day there.
It’s a classic Kiwi beach that works for pretty much everyone, families, surfers, or anyone just wanting a great day in the sun. Soft sand, good swimming, and easy access make Pauanui Beach one of the Coromandel’s top spots.
14. Whiritoa Beach
Whiritoa is a quiet little beach tucked away on the Coromandel coast, and it has a really relaxed, old-school Kiwi beach feel.
The town is small, and the beach stretches along the coastline with soft sand and usually calm water, making it perfect for swimming, paddling, or just hanging out without the crowds.
The waves here can get fun for a bit of beginner surfing, but most of the time it’s easygoing and safe, which makes it a great spot for families or anyone looking to just chill by the water.
At either end of the beach there are some rocks to explore or fish from, and the sunsets here are seriously worth sticking around for.
Behind the beach, the village is tiny but handy, with a few cafes, a local shop, and places to grab a coffee or snack while you watch the ocean. There are also a few short walking tracks nearby if you want to explore the surrounding hills and coastline.
Whiritoa has a calm, friendly vibe that makes it feel like a proper little escape, perfect for a slow beach day where the focus is just sun, sand, and sea.
15. Cooks Beach
If you’re after a calm, sheltered beach, Cooks Beach is the one to visit in the Coromandel. Tucked back in Mercury Bay, it doesn’t get hit by the strong coastal winds and waves like some of the more exposed beaches.
The beach itself stretches around 3 kilometres and is very family friendly. There are plenty of parks, reserves, and walking tracks nearby, which makes it a popular spot for people looking to escape the city and spend a relaxing day by the water.
After some time swimming, playing, or just lounging on the sand, head up to Shakespeare Cliff Lookout for some incredible views. You can walk up from the beach or drive to the car park at the top.
Getting to Cooks Beach is easy. You can drive up the peninsula, or take the ferry from Whitianga to Flaxmill Bay and then drive over the hill, either way, it’s worth the trip for a peaceful day on the water.
16. Lonely Bay
Just over from Cooks Beach is Lonely Bay, a hidden gem that’s perfect if you’re after a peaceful spot away from the usual crowds. The beach is surrounded by native bush and farmland, giving it a real sense of seclusion and natural beauty.
The sand here is soft and golden, and the water is calm, making it ideal for swimming, floating, or even a bit of stand-up paddleboarding if you bring your gear.
At low tide, the shallow areas make it safe for kids to splash around, while the quiet corners of the beach are great for anyone who just wants to relax with a book or a picnic.
Unlike some of the busier beaches nearby, Lonely Bay rarely gets crowded, so it’s easy to feel like you’ve got the place to yourself. It’s a great spot for a calm morning swim, a relaxed afternoon on the sand, or even a scenic walk along the shoreline to take in the views of Mercury Bay.
With its sheltered waters and quiet vibe, Lonely Bay is a perfect little escape in the Coromandel.
17. Whangamatā Beach – Most Popular of the Coromandel Beaches
Whangamatā is one of the most loved beaches in the Coromandel, and it’s pretty easy to see why. The beach is huge, the waves are fun, and the whole place has that relaxed holiday feel that keeps people coming back year after year.
It’s the kind of spot where you can spend the whole day, swimming, sunbathing, or just hanging out on the sand.
One of the biggest drawcards here is Donut Island (Whenuakura), the famous hidden lagoon you can paddle out to.
On a calm day you can kayak or paddleboard from the main beach and head into the cave that opens up into the emerald pool in the middle. It’s such a cool experience and easily one of the most unique things to do in Whangamatā.
When you’re not out exploring the island, the beach itself is ideal for swimming and playing in the surf. Whangamatā also has awesome food spots, little shops to wander around, and that classic summer vibe that just makes you want to stay longer.
It’s a must visit if you’re road tripping the Coromandel.
18. Onemana Beach
Onemana is one of those beaches that feels a bit underrated, which is probably why I like it so much. It’s only a few minutes from Whangamatā, but once you drop over the hill it suddenly feels way quieter and a lot more relaxed.
The beach is a good mix of soft sand and fun waves, and it’s usually easy to find a spot without sitting right next to someone else.
The northern end is my favourite, there are rocky areas to explore and heaps of space to spread out. On a clear day the water looks amazing, and it’s a great spot for a long swim or just floating around.
What I really like about Onemana is how simple it is. There’s a little café, a reserve behind the beach, and not much else, which is kind of the charm.
It’s the place you go when you want a quiet day in the sun without the chaos of the bigger Coromandel beaches.
19. Fletcher Bay
If you want to get far away from the busy beaches, head right up to Fletcher Bay on your next Coromandel trip. It’s tucked at the very top of the peninsula, just over 60 kilometres from Coromandel Town, and the drive alone makes you feel like you’re leaving the rest of the world behind.
Fletcher Bay has this remote, peaceful vibe that’s hard to beat. The beach is quiet, the scenery is rugged and beautiful, and it’s the kind of place where you instantly slow down the moment you arrive.
It’s also where you’ll find one end of the Coromandel Coastal Walkway, that takes you through some of the most untouched parts of the northern Coromandel. If you’re staying up here for a few days, this walk is a must.
There’s a DOC campground right by the beach, which makes it super easy to settle in and enjoy the area properly. Spend a couple of nights, wake up to the sound of the waves, and make the most of being somewhere that still feels completely off the grid.
Which of these Coromandel Beaches will you visit First?
Now you know all the best beaches that the Coromandel has to offer, where is going to be your first stop? Pack the sun cream, towels and swimwear, hit the road and get ready for an epic summer hitting up the best Coromandel beaches.
