The Coromandel Peninsular is one of the most stunning coastal areas in all of New Zealand. Beautiful landscapes, clear water and a relaxed vibe, it is not surprising that it is a popular holiday destination during the summer.
Not only is the Coromandel breathtaking, but it also has a great selection of fun things to do. Spending time at the beach is always the go to here, but there are so many other great activities too.
I spend most of summer on the Coromandel Peninsular every year, so it’s safe to say I have done almost everything there is to do.
In this blog I will share with you a mixture of my very favourites, so that you can fall in love with the Coromandel as much as I have.
Best Things to do in the Coromandel Peninsular
1. Cathedral Cove
A visit to Cathedral Cove is the most popular thing to do in the Coromandel. The iconic photo looking though the tunnel is shared all around the world to promote New Zealand. You may also recognise it from films such as The Chronicles of Narnia.
Obviously, the views are great here, but it is also a perfect spot to spend the day at the beach. With clear water and soft white sand, it doesn’t get much better than this.
There are a few ways to get to Cathedral Cove.
Walking
The most popular way to get to Cathedral Cove is by walking. The walkway starts in Hahei and makes its way along the cliffs passing Stingray Bay and Gemstone Bay until eventually coming out at Cathedral Cove. You will cover just over 2kms and will take 1 hour 30 minutes return.
Due to cyclone damage the tracks down to the beach are currently closed. They are due to be reopen at some point over the 2024/2025 summer. Keep up to date with information on the DoC website.
Kayak
Another popular way to get to Cathedral Cove is by Kayak. Cathedral Cove Kayaks offer year round tours that explore Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve and of course visit Cathedral Cove.
The tour is family orientated and beginner friendly with double kayaks and small groups enabling a safe and fun experience. Tours are 3 hours long fully enabling you to get the most out of your kayaking adventure.
Not only is this a great way to get to Cathedral Cove, but it is also an awesome activity to do while in The Coromandel itself.
Boat
The third way to get to Cathedral Cove is by boat. There is an abundance of options to choose from for your boating adventure. A few of the trips leave from Hahei, but most of them go from Whitianga. All have great reputations.
The Hahei Explorer is one of my personal favourites, that not only take you to Cathedral Cove, but to other epic locations in the area as well. You do not get off the boat on this tour but seeing Cathedral Cove from the water is pretty cool too. This one does leave from Hahei, so gives you the chance to enjoy all the fun things this beautiful beach town has to offer as well.
There are also options such as the Glass Bottom Boat Tour or Sea Cave Adventures that leave from Whitianga.
Whichever way you choose to get there, Cathedral Cove will not disappoint.
2. Pinnacles Walk
If you are going to do one hike while you are in The Coromandel, then it needs to be this one. The Kauaeranga Kauri Trail, known by most kiwis as ‘The Pinnacles’ has become one of the most popular hikes in the North Island. With stunning views stretching far over the rugged mountain range, there really is no surprises why.
The track is 6 kilometres one way and will take around 3 hours to get to the top. The Pinnacles lookout is at about 750m so it is a bit of a climb.
The main reason why I rate the Pinnacles walk as one of the best things to do in The Coromandel, is the ability to stay overnight in the hut. So rather than having to do the full walk there and back in one day, you can split it into two days instead.
This also means you can enjoy the sunrise and sunset from the lookout, which is an experience you will remember forever.
The Pinnacles is a slightly harder walk and can be quite steep, however the well maintained track does make it more doable for many people. A good level of fitness is recommended.
3. Driving Creek Railway
If you have ever been to the Coromandel before then you have probably heard of Driving Creek Railway. You are definitely missing out if not.
Driving Creek Railway is a family friendly train tour taking you up into the hill behind Coromandel Town. The hour long journey passes through tunnels and over bridges while you are surrounded by native bush.
You will stop at a few points along the way to learn about the founder of the Driving Creek Railway Barry Brickell, before arriving at the Eye-Full Tower lookout at the top.
Barry Brickell also loved pottery, so you will see many different elements of this throughout the experience. You can also do a wheel throwing pottery class.
Every single child I saw was absolutely loving their time on the train, but it is also a cool and unique experience for adults as well.
4. Zipline
Wanting a bit more of an adrenalin rush, then you definitely need to check out the Zipline Tour also available at Driving creek.
Wizz through the trees down 8 epic ziplines and learn all about the conservation efforts in the area. Unlike most of the other things to do in the Coromandel, The Zipline Tour brings that elevated level of excitement and adventure. A shortened train ride is also included to the start of the course, so that is a little bonus.
The Zipline Tour is a great activity for families with older, adventurous children. The minimum age is 6 years old so you will need to keep that in mind before booking.
5. New Chums Beach
Probably the second most popular beach spot in the Coromandel behind Cathedral Cove is New Chums Beach. This beach has been voted one of the best beaches in the world and it certainly lives up to that title.
New Chums can only be accessed by boat or on foot through the track that begins at Whangapoua Beach. The great thing about this is the secluded vibe created from the uncrowded beach and sounds of nature.
Like all the amazing beaches in the Coromandel, New Chums has that signature sparkling blue water and soft sand that we all love.
I have lost count of the amount of times I have popped over to here when I want to enjoy a day at the beach without so many people around.
New Chums Beach also has an epic lookout that is well worth the climb. The track up is located about 100 metres before you arrive at the beach. The view from the top looks out over the beach and emphasises the beauty of this location.
New Chums Beach is up there with my favourite spots in the North Island and it should definitely one of the places you visit while you are in the Coromandel.
6. Hahei Boat tour
I have previously talked about the Hahei Explorer Boat Tour as a way to get to Cathedral Cove. However, I think the whole tour is so good that it needs to be highlighted itself.
The great thing about the Hahei Explorer is that you visit so many other breathtaking spots, that it is still worth doing even if you have already been to Cathedral Cove.
Some of my highlights from this trip include adventuring into a few caves along the coast, and checking out Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve.
If you go at low tide you may get the chance to go into the blow hole. This spot is a total hidden gem and I never would have been able to visit it otherwise. This massive, open roofed cave is like something out of a movie. Trees hanging over the edge and calm waters give it such a surreal feeling.
7. Whenua Kura/Donut Island
Whenuakura, also known as Donut Island, is lcoated 600 metres of the coast of Whangamata. This spot was once a local secret, but has become more popular over the years, with tours now operating to take people over to the island.
The name Donut Island comes from the islands shape, being circular with a giant open blowhole in the middle. This old blowhole is full with crystal clear blue water which is what attracts visitors during the summer.
The only way to get to the centre of the island is through a small cave opening. Only kayaks and paddle boards can comfortably fit through the cave which creates the serenity here.
The island is rich in Māori history and is home to lots of native wildlife as well as flora and fauna. It is important to stay in your kayak or on your paddle board to help preserve this special place.
You are able to hire kayaks and paddle boards to get over here yourself or you can book on a tour with a guide if you feel more comfortable.
8. Port Jackson – Most Northern Point in the Coromandel
Port Jackson was one of those places that really took my breath away. I hadn’t seen too much about it so I didn’t have any expectations.
Once I got there and saw the beach front camp ground looking out to the scenic bay, I was in LOVE! The camp ground is epic. You quite literally step out of you tent and onto the beach.
You don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy this spot though. Of course the beach is stunning with the typical Coromandel clear water, but it is also so calm and sheltered being in a bay. It is a great spot for kayaking, paddle boarding and other boating activities.
The Muriwai walk is another great activity to do. The coastal track starts from the beach and makes its way up to the Pa and along the ridge. Along the way you are treated to views of the beach and coastline, as well as Great Barrier Island out in the distance.
If you have time it is worth staying here for a night at the DoC Campground. You will need to reserve your spot so make sure to book online. Spaces fill quick in summer so plan in advance.
9. Coastal Walkway
While you are in Port Jackson, make sure to pop over to Fletcher Bay and do the Coromandel Coastal Walkway.
The track goes up through farmland and coastal forest, with views out to the ocean along the way.
Unfortunately due to damage from extreme weather events, a section of the walkway has been closed. This closure now means you are unable to walk all the way between Fletcher Bay and Stoney Bay.
It’s not all bad though, as a good amount of the track is still open and can be done as a return walk. Most people tend to only do a small section of the walk anyway as the original 7 hour is fairly long.
The track is considered easy and I often see many outdoorsy families doing shortened walks with young kids.
10. Hot Water Beach
Another iconic spot in the Coromandel is Hot Water Beach. If you don’t already know, Hot Water Beach has an area of thermal water that sits just underneath the sand. At low tide, visitors dig holes in the sand that fill up with the hot water. Hence the name Hot Water Beach.
This is a fun and free activity that everyone can join in on. Make sure to bring a spade so you can dig a massive hot pool for multiple people or just a small one for yourself.
The springs are only in one section on the beach. To get to it, you will need to walk to the far end of the beach towards the rocks. Right in front of these rocks is where the hot water is. You will most likely see all the people gathering from the other end of the beach.
The water can be very hot so make sure to check the temperature of the water and watch young children as well.
If you are visiting in the summer months you might struggle to find space to dig. If you can, try to time your visit when low tide is early morning or later in the evening. This will usually be a bit quieter.
11. The lost Spring – Most relaxing Thing to do in The Coromandel
If you liked the sound of Hot Water Beach then The Lost Spring might be right up your alley. This geo-thermal pool and day spa, located in Whitianga is a great way to relax and escape from your busy day to day life.
The main attraction here is the geo-thermal pools. There are a few pools to choose from ranging in temperature from 32℃ to 41℃. Nestled in the native bush this relaxing location is the perfect place to unwind. You can even order cocktails and food from the pool.
If you are looking for even more relaxation, there is a great selection of experiences to choose from at the day spa. Massages, facials and treatments are just a few of the options.
There is even an onsite restaurant to enjoy before or after the pools and day spa. The food here is delicious! I have had the salmon, the pork and the burger the few times I have been here and all three were fantastic.
It is on the the more expensive side of things to do, but I personally think it is well worth the money spent.
You can book the Lost Spring here.
12. Crayfish Bay – Coromandel’s secret Beach
If you are into discovering hidden gems, then make sure to check out Crayfish Bay. I heard about Crayfish Bay a few years ago and couldn’t wait to go and visit it myself. The beach is quite rocky and is not the best, but the rock ledge to the right of the beach is what makes this place epic.
The huge flat rock ledge has plenty of space for everyone to lay down and relax for the day. There is one large main spot but also many smaller spots further around too.
There is also some cool spots to jump off the rocks into the clear water below. In summer you will always find others here doing the same thing. There is a way to climb back up the rocks so you do not have to swim all the way to the beach to get up again.
You don’t have to jump in the water either. On colder days when I don’t want to get wet, it is nice to just sit up on the ledge and take in the views. On a calm day the water is a beautiful clear green colour.
To get to Crayfish Bay, you will need to park at Opito Bay and walk over. The walk is flat and easy and it wont take you more than 20 minutes.
13. Whiti Farm Park
If you are in The Coromandel with children then Whiti Farm Park is a great activity for the whole family to enjoy.
Spread over 8 acres of land, The Whiti Farm Park has over 40 different species of animals to interact with and enjoy. There are farm animals, birds and everything in between. There is also an opportunity to feed some of the animals.
The kids will also love the old machinery scattered around the farm, including an old train and fire engine.
You could easily spend most of the day here as you check out the animals and explore the bush as well. There is plenty of grassy areas and picnic tables for lunch.
14. KarangaHake Gorge
The Karangahake Gorge is more on the outskirts of the Coromandel but definitely worth visiting if you are passing through.
The perfect mixture of nature and history, the walks in the Karangahake Gorge showcase the rich gold mining past as the tracks wind through the native bush.
There are plenty of walks to choose from when you visit. They are all different lengths and difficulties, so there is a walk that everyone will enjoy. The tracks take you over swing bridges, through tunnels and past waterfalls.
My favourite part is the Windows Walk to Dickey’s Flat. The track goes through parts of the old mine with window like openings with amazing views looking down the river. You will eventually arrive at Dickey’s flat which is a popular swimming spot with a small waterfall.
Don’t forget to bring your torch so you can explore further down a few of the tunnels.
15. Gold Mine Experience
If you like the sound of the old gold mine tunnels in Karangahake Gorge, then The Gold Mine Experience is something you should also check out.
Located in Thames, The Gold Mine Experience takes you through a 19th century Stamper Battery and into one of the richest goldmines of all time. You will learn all about the history of the gold rush in the Coromandel and discover the ways the miners used to search for gold.
This is a great activity for families with lots of different ways to learn. There is a museum, presentations as well as machines and relics scattered around. You even get the chance to try out gold panning.
Pricing starts at $20 for adults and $5 for kids.
16. Snorkeling
There are plenty of amazing locations all over the Coromandel for snorkelling and diving. With the eastern coast having such clear water, this is mostly where you will find the best spots.
If you are comfortable going on you own then you can pretty much pick any of the beaches with rocky areas to explore. Crayfish Bay which I mentioned earlier is great and I love Otama Beach as well. You may not see lots of fish though.
If you are wanting to see lots of different marine life then the best place to head to is Te-Whanaganui-o-Hei Marine reserve near Hahei. Here you will find a variety of habitats that are home to many different species.
Gemstone Bay has a snorkel trail which is a great option for everyone especially if you don’t have a lot of snorkelling experience. The trail includes informational buoys with handles to hold onto.
If you would prefer to go on a tour with guides, then make sure to book with Cathedral Cove Dive and Snorkel. Offering scuba diving and snorkelling, Cathedral Cove Dive and Snorkel take trips both into the marine reserve and to other areas along the coastline. The well trained staff will also ensure you get the the most out of the experience and help you become more confident in the water.
17. Mercury Islands
The Mercury Islands known to locals as the Mercs is a group of islands located 8 kilometres off the coast of the Coromandel Peninsular. The islands are privately owned so you will need you own boat to get out to them.
Great Mercury Island is the most popular of the group with lots of sheltered bays to enjoy. Swimming and snorkelling is amazing here, with clear, blue water all around. Peachgrove Bay is my personal favourite and is well worth the trip over.
The owners of the island allow you to use the beaches as long are you leave no trace and keep the island clean and as it was when you got there.
18. Waiu Falls – The Coromandel’s Best Waterfall
Waiau Falls is a well known waterfall located along the 309 Road. A trip to Waiau Falls is a great alternative to spending the day at the beach with the fresh water being a nice change from salty sea.
The walk from the car park is only a couple of minutes so it is very easy to get to. The track is quite uneven and you will have to climb down a few rocks to get to the water.
The 6 metre high waterfall has a large waterhole at the bottom which is popular swimming spot during the summer. It is even deep enough to dive off the rocks.
Waiau Falls is toward the western end of the 309 road close to Coromandel town, but it can be accessed from Whitianga as well.
19. The Waterworks
The Waterworks is also located along the 309 road. The best way to describe this place is a quirky water park spread over 5 acres of coromandel bush. Here you will find more than 70 fun activities mostly powered by water.
Sustainability is one of the main elements of the park with loads of up-cycled attractions. There is also swimming holes, jumping boards and an epic water slide.
There is plenty of space for a picnic, with barbeques on site to use as well. The cafe is also an option if you prefer to buy food.
The Waterworks is the perfect choice for a fun family day out with something for people of all ages. It’s is even dog friendly, so you can bring your furry family member along.
20. 309 road
Like the sound of visiting both Waiau Falls and The Water Works? Then make a day out of exploring the 309 Road and have a break from the beach.
The 309 Road is a 22 kilometre stretch of gravel road between Coromandel Town and Whitianga. With lots of tight twists and turns it’s one of those roads people either really love or absolutely hate driving.
There are plenty of cool and quirky places to stop along the drive. Some of the most popular include Stu’s Pigs, The Water Works, Waiau Falls and The Kauri Grove walk.
The 309 Road is a great little road trip to do in the summer if you are staying nearby. Make a day out of it and and check out the variety experiences along the way.
21. Lonely Bay
Surrounded by towering cliffs and Pohutukawa tress, Lonely Bay is one of the lesser known beaches on the Coromandel Peninsular. However, I think it is an epic spot and anyone who doesn’t go here is missing out.
Each time I have been here, there has never been more than a few groups of people on the beach, even during the busy summer holidays. It is easy to find your own little area and set up for a peaceful day at the beach.
The water does get deep quite quick here and can get a bit rough in windy weather. However on a calm day, there really is no better place to be.
You will need to do a small amount of walking to get to Lonely Bay. There are a couple of different ways to get here. You can either drive up to the carpark above Lonely Bay and walk a few hundred metres , or you can do the longer walk over from Cooks Beach.
There are quite a few stairs to get down to Lonely Bay so do be mindful of this before you go.
22. Shakespeare lookout
While you are in the area make sure you pop up to the Shakespeare Lookout. It is located just above Lonely Bay and has amazing views out over Mercury Bay. You can either drive up to the carpark or continue to walk up from the beach.
There is a large lookout platform from which you get incredible views of the ocean as well as Whitianga, Cooks Beach and Lonely Bay. The lookout also has lots of information boards about the area, pointing out different locations of interest.
If you do like a good walk then I would suggest doing the Shakespeare Cliff Loop Track. This starts and finishes in Cooks beach and goes all the way up to the lookout before looping back down.
If you want an even better view, go down the side of the platform and follow the gaps in the bush to get to the front of the cliff. You will need to be careful as there are straight drops off the cliff from here.
23. Grab a Kuaotunu Killer
Do you love ice-cream on a hot summers day? Then you need to head to Kuaotunu and get yourself a Kuaotunu Killer. This epic ice-cream is a huge ten scoops! You can choose five different flavours, which get stacked up on a double cone. I have honestly lost count of the amount of times we have stopped by just for this ice-cream.
You might be wondering if its even possible to fit ten scoops onto one cone. YES, it certainly is! But there is not guarantee they will all stay on there. But not to worry, staff give you a paper plate to put the ice-cream on so it does not spill.
This is by far my favourite way to finish a perfect day at the beach.
Unfortunately, the Kuaotunu store and ice-cream shop have been sold and closed down. Hopefully, it it will be re-opened soon.
24. Slipper Island
Slipper island is located 3 kilometres east of the Coromandel Peninsular. It is a private island that welcomes guests wishing to stay overnight. You might have seen it all over TikTok during the summer standing out with the bright blue waters.
I would definitely recommend staying here for a couple of nights. They have a few different accomodation options and with this you get full access to the island. There is lots of cool walks, lookouts and beaches to enjoy. This place is all about being in nature and enjoying the simple things.
If you are not wanting to stay the night you are able to take your own boat out there for a day trip. You can enjoy the clear water and land on the beaches but you may not go any higher than the high tide line.
You can book your stay at Slipper Island here.
25. Surf Lessons
If you are keen to give surfing a go, then a visit to the Whangamata Surf School is a must do. Whangamata has some great waves for learning how to surf and there is no better way to learn than with an surf school.
You can choose between private individual, couples or group lessons. Whichever best suits you needs. People of all abilities are welcome to come and learn and be taught by a qualified and experienced instructor.
If you have already done a bit of surfing before and feel comfortable going out in the water yourself, you are also able to hire a board out for the day. This is a great opportunity the day after your surf lesson, to build on what you learnt.
You can book lessons here.
26. Explore the Many Short Walks in the Coromandel
I have already mentioned a few of the long walks in The Coromandel but there are so many amazing short walks for you to enjoy too.
Ranging from uphill climbs that take a few hours, to flat easy walks that can be completed in 30 minutes, there is always something to suit the style of walk you want.
Some of my favourites include:
Mt Paku Summit – this is a short but steep 30 minute walk that leads up to the top of Mt Paku. From here you can enjoy views over Tairua, Pauanui beach and towards the Ranges.
Wentworth Falls – a 6 kilometre track that explores the gold mining history of the Coromandel. Winding through native bush the walk leads you to a cute waterfall where you return the same way.
Opito Bay Pa – short but sweet, this walk takes you up to the Pa at the end of Opito Bay. There are plenty of stairs but the views from the top out towards the Mercury Islands make it well worth it.
27. Lukes Kitchen – Best food in the Coromandel
I spend a lot of time in and around Kuaotunu and if there is one place I will never get sick of going to, it’s Lukes Kitchen. This is one of my favourite places to go while I am in the Coromandel. The food, the vibe, the location, everthing about this place is amazing.
They are mostly open for lunch and dinner, but do have a small breakfast menu during the busy summer holiday season. The wood fire pizzas are the most popular choice, but you could get anything on the menu and it will be delicious.
Lukes Kitchen is located right beside the beach and embraces the seaside rustic vibe throughout the restaurant. In summer, they also welcome live performances from a range of different musicians.
28. Coromandel Oyster Company
Looking for another great place to get food? Then the Coromandel Oyster Company is a must do. Located only a 5 minute drive from Coromandel Town, this place has some of the best seafood in the North Island.
The Coromandel Oyster Company are best known for their fresh oysters and mussels but also offer a large selection of tasty food. You can grab some to go, or sit out in the water side garden and enjoy then and there.
I always stop here and grab one of their famous mussel chowders. If a classic fish and chips is more your thing, they have that too!
29. Hauraki Rail Trail
Enjoy a good bike ride? Then you should check out the Hauraki Rail Trail. The 160 kilometre ride is split into 5 different sections showcasing some of the epic scenery New Zealand has to offer.
The whole track goes from Kaiaua to Matamata but sections B and C are easy to do while you are in the Coromandel.
Section B follows the old railway line out of Thames with impressive views of the Hauraki Plains and the Kaimai Ranges. Section C goes into the Karangahake Gorge and follows the riverside through the native forest.
The trail is mostly flat and wide making it doable for beginner riders as well. You can bring your own bike and equipment or hire it in Thames.
You can check out more details about the Hauraki Rail Trail Here.
30. Beach hopping around the Coromandel
Of course beach hopping has to be on this list. The Coromandel has some of the best beaches in the whole country and is the main reason most people come and stay.
I have already mentioned a few of the must visit beaches earlier, but there are so many other awesome spots all over the Coromandel too. Now there are LOTS, so you wont be able to go to every single one. However, there are quite a few that are close together and you would be able to visit a some of them over a couple of days.
One of my favourite beach hopping trips is the beaches near Kuaotunu. If you base yourself here for a few days you can easily visit 6 other beaches all within a 20 minute drive. These include New Chums, Whangapoua, Matarangi, Otama, Opito and Crayfish Bay.
If you have a few days, make your way down the coast stopping at places like Pauanui, Pokohino and Whiritoa.
Whether you are looking for a popular beach spot or want something all to yourself, Coromandel has something for you.
You can check out this list of some of the best beaches in The Coromandel here.
31. Camping around the Coromandel
There is no better way than camping to see the best parts of the Coromandel. There is an abundance of campgrounds to choose from all over the Coromandel. You can stay in modern holiday parks or sleep right on the beach at a DoC site.
Many kiwis grow up camping as it is an affordable and fun way to see holiday. The Coromandel is the go to spot for many Aucklanders over summer and many of the campgrounds will be full with people. The community feel you get from campgrounds is something you don’t get staying in private accomodation.
I have stayed in many of the campgrounds around the Coromandel and I tend to prefer the DoC ones. The are a lot more isolated and out in nature than some of the holiday parks in the bigger towns.
My favourite DoC campgrounds:
– Port Jackson
– Stony Bay
– Waikawau Bay
However, the holiday parks are also great if you would prefer to have more facilities. Some of the big parks have massive playgrounds and plenty of family orientated events.
My favourite Holiday Parks
– Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park
– Hahei Beach Resort
– Kuaotunu Campground
– Whangamata Motor Camp
No matter where you choose to go camping in the Coromandel, I can guarantee it will be a spot you never want to leave.
Wrap Up: things to do in the Coromandel
So now you know all of the best things there are to do in The Coromandel. With so many options it is easy to see why everyone loves this beautiful piece of coastline so much.
If you are looking for a relaxed get away or a fun adventure filled trip I am sure you will have plenty of things to do from all the options listed above.
