Looking for the best things to do in Coromandel, New Zealand? This is the only guide you’ll need to plan the perfect trip!
Visiting the Coromandel Peninsula is like unlocking a secret slice of New Zealand. Whether you’re here to check out Cathedral Cove, hike up to jaw-dropping viewpoints, or experience the famous hot water beach, there are plenty of Coromandel attractions to enjoy for all types of travelers.
Read on to discover the best places to visit in Coromandel, as well as some helpful tips you should know before coming.
THINGS TO DO IN COROMANDEL – OVERVIEW
Before we dive into more details about the top Coromandel things to do, let’s start with some helpful tips before you go such as how to get to Coromandel New Zealand, the best time to visit, and more.
WHERE IS THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA?
The Coromandel Peninsula is on the North Island of New Zealand. It stretches out into the Pacific Ocean, east of Auckland.
This area is known for its beautiful coastlines and forest-covered hills and forms the western barrier of the Hauraki Gulf.
Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of Coromandel.
HOW TO GET TO COROMANDEL PENINSULA?
If you’re coming from Auckland, the drive to the Coromandel Peninsula takes around 2 hours.
For the ultimate New Zealand experience, traveling by campervan is the way to go! Campervans provide a home on wheels and offer unlimited freedom and flexibility.
Alternatively, you can rent a car in New Zealand and stay in hotels in each location you visit.
Another option is to book a bus with Go Kiwi Shuttles, which runs regularly from major cities around the North Island.
BEST TIME TO VISIT THE COROMANDEL NEW ZEALAND?
The best time to visit Coromandel New Zealand is during the summer months, from December to February.
During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for visiting the beaches and hiking. Spring and Autumn are nice alternatives and offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
BEST TOUR IN COROMANDEL
The best way to visit is by joining a Coromandel Tour from Auckland!
It includes popular spots in Coromandel, transportation from Auckland, snacks and water, and a fun guide!
20 BEST THINGS TO DO IN COROMANDEL NEW ZEALAND
Now that we’ve covered the logistics of how to get to Coromandel and the best time to visit, let’s go through what to do in Coromandel, from visiting the famous Cathedral Cove to more active Coromandel attractions and driving routes!
VISIT CATHEDRAL COVE
Cathedral Cove is a must-see in the Coromandel, famous for its natural archway and pristine beach, accessible only by foot or boat.
This Coromandel attraction is open year-round and there are no entrance fees, but it’s best visited during the daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate its beauty.
The area is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and taking beautiful photos for keepsakes.
To get to Cathedral Cove, you’ll need to take a scenic walk of approximately 1 hour from the Grange Road car park, which is well-signposted.
Alternatively, you can easily park in town and take a shuttle from Hahei.
A unique way to visit Cathedral Cove is to join a 3-hour kayaking tour. This is the ultimate experience to see the cove from a different perspective and learn more about the area from a local guide!
Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and your camera to capture the moments.
GLASS-BOTTOM BOAT TOUR
On the eastern part of the Coromandel, one incredible activity to try is a glass-bottom boat tour, a unique way to experience the marine life and geological formations of Cathedral Cove.
These tours offer a chance to see the underwater world without getting wet (or just a little!). Tours depart from Whitianga, and it’s wise to book in advance, especially during the peak season.
A glass-bottom boat tour typically lasts around 2 hours and provides not only spectacular views of the marine reserve but also stories and anecdotes about the area’s marine life and history.
You’ll have the opportunity to spot a variety of fish, coral, and maybe even dolphins if you’re lucky.
It’s a perfect activity for families and anyone interested in marine biology or photography.
WALK THE PINNACLES TRACK – BEST THINGS TO DO IN COROMANDEL
The Pinnacles Track is one of the most famous walks in the Coromandel region, boasting stunning views and a challenging hike.
I recommend getting to Kauaeranga Valley Visitor Centre, where you can find maps and valuable information, before starting the hike at Kauaeranga Valley Road End.
It’s important to wear sturdy footwear and carry enough water and snacks, as the climb can be quite demanding.
There’s a small fee to stay overnight (from $25 to $35 per night) in the Pinnacles Hut if you wish to break up the hike, but if not, you can also hike back down on the same day.
The track is open throughout the year, though it’s best to check conditions before you go. As you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Coromandel Peninsula, making the effort entirely worth it.
SWIM AT NEW CHUMS BEACH
New Chums Beach is renowned as one of the Coromandel’s best beaches.
Located in the northeastern part of the Coromandel Peninsula, you can easily access New Chums Beach by a walking track through native bushland.
The walk starts from the northern end of Whangapoua Beach, taking about 30 minutes. You’ll want to wear proper footwear as some areas along the trail are not suitable for barefoot.
Once you arrive, you’re greeted by golden sands 1km long and you’ll love the turquoise waters here.
You can swim, go snorkeling, take the hike up to New Chums look out for the views, or just work on your tan at this spectacular destination.
Remember to bring all your essentials with you as there are no facilities here, but let me tell you – It’s one of the best things to do in Coromandel!
GO ZIPLINING IN COROMANDEL
For an adrenaline-packed adventure, ziplining is one of the best Coromandel activities.
Here, you’ll find eight ziplines, stretching for more than 2300 feet through the forest, and you’ll have gorgeous views along the way.
Everything you need is included, like the safety gear, wet-weather clothing if needed, and a scenic train ride from the entrance to the ziplines.
Whether you’re there to laugh and have fun with your family or to feel the rush of speeding through the forest, ziplining guarantees an awesome day out!
This activity is often fully booked as it’s one of the more popular things to do in Coromandel Peninsula, so make sure to book in advance.
CLIMB MOUNT PAKU SUMMIT
If you’re in for a nice hike but don’t want a demanding one like the Pinnacles Track, then Mount Maku is a great alternative.
That’s right, it’s not too hard, so most people can do it, even if you’re not super fit. The climb takes about 20-30 minutes to complete and it’s only 1.1 km long (0.7 miles) which is nice, even during the day.
Fun fact: Mount Paku is a dormant volcano and it was formed over 7 million years ago. On the trail, you’ll get to see native birds as well as beautiful flora and fauna.
The hike starts at Mount Paku Lookout Walkway Entrance near the parking lot.
The trail is quite steep but overall easy and is doable for all fitness levels, which is a great way to spend a couple of hours or more.
Apart from being a free activity, it’s one of the best places to visit in Coromandel, so make sure to include it in your North Island New Zealand Itinerary.
The BEST Affordable Camera For Travel
If you’re on the hunt for a professional camera for traveling, check out the Canon G7 X Mark II.
This tiny camera fits in your pocket, captures high-quality photos and videos, and has Wi-Fi so you can instantly transfer to your phone!
WINE-TASTING AT MERCURY BAY ESTATE
Another one of the best things to do in Coromandel Town is visiting Mercury Bay Estate which offers a unique wine-tasting experience with breathtaking views over Mercury Bay.
You can get a range of tastings, from crisp whites to robust reds, all while learning about the winemaking process from the passionate and knowledgeable staff.
The best wines you can have here are the Pinot Noir (highly recommended), the Sauvignon Blanc, and the Pinot Gris. If you visit in the summer, you’ll probably have some live music, which is great!
There’s more – The winery even has delicious pizza, antipasto platters, and freshly made salads to make your visit even more unique.
Note that their opening hours vary depending on the season, and it’s generally busy, so make sure to book beforehand.
RELAX AT THE LOST SPRING
Nestled in Whitianga on the eastern part of the Coromandel Peninsula, The Lost Spring a great place to unwind and relax after hiking and driving around.
You’ll be dipping into geothermal pools with temperatures warm enough to soothe every muscle, ranging from 32°C (89°F) to a more toasty 41°C (105.8°F).
What makes these pools even more special is their dept that never goes beyond chest height, making for a comfortable soak without having to fully dive in.
If you have more time available, I recommend getting a spa treatment, especially the TLS Signature Package or the Lost Spring Romantic Journey if you come as a couple.
If you travel on a budget, however, you’ll want to keep it simple and just get the hot spring package, which costs $60 per person for 2 hours or $100 for 4 hours.
Last but not least, there’s even a restaurant here to have a delicious meal or snack after relaxing in the pools, and that’s exactly what you need!
PLAY A ROUND OF GOLF
Golfing in the Coromandel New Zealand is a treat for any golf lover, and definitely one of the best Coromandel things to do.
Many of the golf courses here are set in picturesque locations, allowing you to enjoy the landscapes as you play through.
On the edge of Coromandel Town, the Coromandel Golf Club offers a unique 9-hole course set across two valleys. This course is maintained by volunteers and is in excellent condition year-round.
The course is not only affordable at just $25 NZD for a round but it’s also on of the top Coromandel activities to spend a few hours.
The second option you have is Mercury Bay Golf Club with its 18-hole course, located just a short 3 km drive from Whitianga.
This relatively flat course provides players with stunning views over Mercury Bay, making the golfing experience with a scenic backdrop.
Lastly, only a 30 minutes’ drive from Whitianga Town, the Dunes Golf Course is a stunning 18-hole course with views of Matarangi Beach and Whangapoua Harbour that’ll you’ll love.
Take Your Photos & Videos To New Heights!
The DJI Mini 3 Pro is the most affordable, user-friendly drone camera suitable for all levels!
This travel-sized drone captures 4K/60fps video, 48MP photo, and has 34 minutes flight time.
STAY AT STARGAZER
Nestled in the Kuaotunu Valley, Stargazers Bed & Breakfast is the best place to stay in the Coromandel if you want to go stargazing.
Thanks to its location in a dark sky site, free from light pollution, you’ll have an unparalleled opportunity to explore the southern night sky.
Staying here will cost you about $400 per night, but rooms include a kitchenette, free WiFi, and rooms with soft natural rainwater heated by solar panels. While the price might seem steep, all rooms include a stargazing tour.
The astronomy tours provided here use a range of optical tools, including the region’s largest telescope, a 14″ Celestron CGE Pro 1400XLT, to bring the moon, planets, and distant galaxies into clear view.
The best part? You’ll even get to hold meteorites, which is so unique during your trip to Coromandel New Zealand.
VISIT WAIAU FALLS
Waiau Falls is another one of the best palces to visit in Coromandel, located just 15 minutes from Coromandel Town.
You can leave your car at this parking lot and take a short walk (only 15 minutes or so) to reach the 6-meter-high waterfall.
You can check out this stunning natural vista after a morning at the beach and afterwards enjoy more of the best things to do in Coromandel Town.
Note that it’s a popular place for locals, so expect the waterfall to be crowded on the weekend.
TAKE THE COROMANDEL COASTAL WALKWAY
Not far from the northern tip, the Coromandel Coastal Walkway is the most scenic walk on the Coromandel Peninsula, and arguably in the whole of New Zealand.
The coastal walkway is a 10 km trip with impressive views of Hauraki Gulf and Mount Moehau.
Taking approximately 3.5 hours to complete one way, this trail connects Fletcher Bay to Stony Bay, and you’ll get to see both in one day!
Despite its length, the walk is pretty easy, and suitable for most people, though there’s a challenging steep section near Poley Bay to watch out for.
To make the most of your time, I recommend joining this full-day guided tour, which includes a one-way walk with a private transfer waiting at the trail’s end.
Other than an expert guide, the tour also includes all the gear you need and pick up from Colville for added convenience, and it makes for the perfect day out!
CHECK OUT WYUNA BAY & SHELLY BEACH
On the top end of the peninsula, you’ll have good fun beach-hopping between Wyuna Bay and Shelly Beach.
Wyuna Bay’s secluded coastline offers tranquil waters perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, while Shelly Beach boasts a beautiful bay for a relaxing afternoon.
I recommend spending the night here in North Coromandel to fully enjoy the beautiful landscapes in this region.
WHANGAMATA BEACH
Whangamata Beach and town makes for an ideal stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the area, including Indian, Italian, and a bakery with almond croissants to die for!
This beach itself is known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sands, which make it a popular spot for swimming and surfing if that’s your thing.
Another one of the best Coromandel activities to try is renting a kayak and heading to Donut Island for a short adventure.
KARANGAHAKE GORGE
Arguably one of the best places to visit in Coromandel New Zealand is Karangahake Gorge, a historic gold-mining area that’s now a scenic reserve with many trails and even a biking trail.
Take a walk along the walking tracks that follow the old railway lines and explore the tunnels and bridges that were once used to transport gold from the mines.
At the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, scenic waterfall where you can chill for a while.
There are two large parking lots with a seating area, some tables to have a snack or drink, and even restrooms if you need the loo.
Pssst! Check out this EPIC Hiking Backpack!
Perfect for shorter day hikes, the Osprey Stratos 24L is a tough pack made from sustainable materials.
With great internal organization, this is all you need for your next adventure, no matter the weather!
MILL CREEK BIRD PARK
Out of all the best things to do in Coromandel Peninsula for families, Mill Creek Bird Park is by far the most fun!
Located just 10 minutes from Whitianga, this bird sanctuary is home to over 400 bird species and a large walk-in aviary where visitors can feed lories.
But birds aren’t the only attraction; the park is also home to a variety of farm animals, such as bunnies, goats, emus, alpacas, horses, and the distinctive Kune Kune pig.
To make the most of it, why not stay for the night? They offer campervan parks and cabins from $25 per night, as well as self-contained units from $200 per night which is a nice way to enjoy your time at the park.
The entrance fee is only $10 for adults and $3 for kids, which is super affordable for such a fun Coromandel activity!
HOT WATER BEACH
The famous Hot Water Beach is not to be missed on your list of things to do in Coromandel Peninsula.
Known for its unique geothermal activity, natural hot springs bubble up through the sands, allowing you to create your own spa-like experience right on the shoreline.
The best time to enjoy this phenomenon is around two hours on either side of low tide, so check local tide charts beforehand to ensure you arrive at the optimal time.
You will need to rent a shovel from one of the nearby rental shops or accommodation providers, as creating this natural spa involves digging a shallow hole in the sand near the water’s edge.
SCENIC DRIVE FROM TAPU TO COROGLEN
The drive from Tapu to Coroglen is a stunning 28-kilometer journey through breathtaking landscapes, and you simply can’t come to Coromandel without seeing it with your own eyes.
A highlight along this route is the Square Kauri, the 15th largest kauri tree in Coromandel, estimated to be over 1,200 years old.
While the drive is beautiful, pay attention to the narrow sections and gravel roads, which makes the way a little more challenging. Does that mean you shouldn’t go? No! It’s one of the best Coromandel activities and you can’t skip it!
I recommend starting in Tapu when coming from Auckland and making your way to Coroglen when visiting Cathedral Cove, which isn’t far from there.
KAURI BLOCK WALK
The Kauri Block Walk, a 1.6 km (1 mile) journey along the Coromandel Peninsula, is a great place to learn about the local history, as you’ll go through an ancient Maori settlement.
The Maori settlement is the highest point on the track and you’ll have stunning 360-degree vistas over Coromandel Town and the islands.
It’s an easy and family-friendly activity that takes about 90 minutes to complete and you can start on Wharf Road in Coromandel Town or, on the other end at Harbour View Road’s peak.
The signage is pretty clear on both ends, which is pretty convenient and you don’t need to be an expert hiker to enjoy your time here.
Can you think of better things to do Coromandel Town has to offer?
RAPAURA WATERGARDENS
This list of places to visit in Coromandel Peninsula wouldn’t be complete without Rapaura Watergardens, a 64-acre park in the Coromandel Forest Park.
The place is famous for a few reasons, but the most apparent is for the bird species here, and you’ll love seeing some rare ones like the tui, fantail, and silver eye.
There are a few walking paths around the gardens, and there’s even one that takes you to a waterfall, and that is so unique! While the best time to visit is during the summer, I recommend you take the opportunity to visit no matter when you plan your itinerary.
Located on Tapu – Coroglen Road in the Tapu Valley, the entry is managed by an honesty box, costing $15 per adult and $5 per child, please stay honest and pay the right amount!
WHAT TO DO IN COROMANDEL – FAQ
Now that we’ve covered all the best Coromandel attractions, let’s answer some frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.
WHAT ARE THE BEST BEACHES IN THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA?
The Coromandel Peninsula is home to some of New Zealand’s most stunning beaches, each offering its own unique charm.
Cathedral Cove is renowned for its natural rock archway and serene waters, ideal for photography and swimming. New Chums Beach, accessible only by a scenic walk, is a secluded paradise of golden sand surrounded by native bush, perfect for those seeking tranquility.
On the other hand, Whangamata Beach is a favorite for its surf breaks and long stretches of sand, making it a popular spot for surfers and families.
IS THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA WORTH VISITING?
Yes, the Coromandel Peninsula is definitely worth the trip. With its stunning beaches, natural hot springs, and forest trails, it offers something for everyone, and I’m sure you’ll have a great time!
ARE THERE CAMPERVAN PARKS IN COROMANDEL?
Yes there are plenty of campervan parks in Coromandel. I recommend staying at one of the below campervan parks which are located around the northern tip of the Coromandel Peninsula:
WHAT ARE THE BEST HOTELS IN COROMANDEL TOWN?
Coromandel Town has dozens of hotels to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay during your visit.
Below you’ll find properties suitable for luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.
LUXURY: COROMANDEL APARTMENTS
MID RANGE: COROMANDEL SEAVIEW MOTEL
BUDGET: WAIOTAHI VALLEY LODGE
More New Zealand Travel Guides
Click the button below to view all articles related to New Zealand!
WHAT TO PACK FOR NEW ZEALAND
When visiting New Zealand, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:
Must-Have Travel Essentials
Hidden Money Wallet
Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!
Reusable Water Bottle
The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!
Travel Backpack
The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!
Quick-Dry Travel Towel
The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!
Portable PowerBank
Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!
FINAL THOUGHTS – BEST THINGS TO DO IN THE COROMANDEL
I hope you enjoyed reading this guide, and if you have any questions about what to do in Coromandel New Zealand, please drop me a comment below this post, and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!
Search and book accommodation worldwide.
Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.
Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.
Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.
Search all rental cars in your next destination.
Need travel insurance for your next trip?
THANKS FOR READING
Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!
Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.
Click here to find out how you can support the site organically.
Many thanks!