Plan a seaside trip at the best beaches in Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula is one of the most incredible regions in all of New Zealand, filled with white-sand beaches, white cliffs and lush forests. Both coasts offer excellent beaches for swimming, surfing, kayaking, sunbathing and water sports. You’ll also find charming coastal towns and villages with shops, eateries and other amenities, as well as wilderness areas, cliff treks and other activities. Whether you’re looking for a fun seaside trip with the family, an adventure in the water or a romantic trip with your partner for sunset viewing and waterfront dining, you can find it all at the beaches of Coromandel Peninsula. Find out more about the best beaches on the Coromandel Peninsula and prepare for a memorable trip in New Zealand.
New Chum Beach for families with children
New Chum Beach is a long, sandy beach that has space for everyone. The beach is popular amongst families with small children and sunbathers, but you could enjoy plenty of water sports there. Rocky headlands surround the beach, and there’s a trail for nature walks along the stream through a pohutukawa forest.
Hot Water Beach for a natural spa
Hot Water Beach is a notable beach that reveals a unique geological feature at low tide. In the centre of the beach, the low tide reveals a natural hot spring where you can dig a hole and enjoy a soothing soak. Along with your natural spa treatment, you can swim in the calm waters or lounge on the sand to take in the coastal views.
Cathedral Cove for coastal walks
Famous for its magnificent natural archway and white cliffs, Cathedral Cove is one of the most beautiful beaches in Coromandel. You can walk along the coastal pathway that begins at Hahei Beach and make your way to the white, sandy cove beach. Along the way, you’ll get spectacular views of places like Stingray Bay, Gemstone Bay and Mercury Bay.
Whiritoa Beach for watersports with family
Whiritoa Beach is a quiet beach with beautiful scenery and a charming town with shops and holiday rentals. The beach is popular for surfing, fishing, snorkelling and other water sports, but plenty of families and couples come to sunbathe and swim in the gentle surf. One of the best features of Whiritoa Beach is that it doesn’t attract huge crowds, so you can have a relaxing spot to yourself.
Pauanui Beach for surfing
If you enjoy unspoilt beaches, Pauanui Beach is the ideal place. Located next to a quaint seaside town, Pauanui Beach has lifeguard patrols and designated swimming areas for young children and beginners. It’s also known for having surf breaks for beginners and more challenging breaks for experienced surfers. To take in the views of the coast and the water, enjoy a stroll along the Pauanui Trig Track coastal pathway that runs along the shore.
Hahei Beach for wildlife encounters with the kids
Located on the edge of a marine reserve, Hahei Beach is a scenic beach that’s ideal for adventurers. The beach is popular for swimming, boating, surfing and surfcasting. You can book a kayak tour to experience some of the marine reserve and enjoy the coastal views. Hahei Beach is popular for families due to its soft, clean sand and crystal-clear, calm surf.
Whangamata Beach for kid-friendly attractions
Located on the southern portion of the Coromandel Peninsula, Whangamata is a charming seaside town with 6 kilometres of beach and numerous access points. You’ll find ice cream shops, cafes, surf shops and tour operators in Whangamata, so you can have some thrills on the water. The beach is also popular with families and known for its clean, clear waters.
Kuaotunu Beach for relaxation by the water
Boasting 2 kilometres of sandy shoreline, Kuaotunu Beach is a great place to enjoy a relaxing beach day or beach activities. You’ll have plenty of space to yourself, and you can stroll along the shoreline to see the dolphins offshore or the dotterels that frequently nest in the area. Swimming, fishing and other water sports are also popular. If you’re visiting with the family, you can stop at the nearby cafe for ice cream and other refreshments.