The Coromandel is a coastal playground in the North Island, and is the perfect destination for beachgoers searching for white sandy beaches. Whether you want to take to a trail, enjoy the refreshing ocean water, snorkel the native waters, surf the waves or take your next Instagram worthy picture, the Coromandel will have the perfect beach for you.
1. Cathedral Cove
A beach so breathtaking that is was even chosen as a location for the magical film, Narnia. The cathedral-like arch formation is a picturesque wonder that makes this beach as popular as it is (the beach receives over 500,00 visitors a year!). Whether you choose this beach for a scenic stroll, a fun kayak, a guided boat tour, brave the ocean water with snorkelling or even take a scenic flyover, you’ll enjoy this spectacular marine reserve. This beach is a popular choice for crowds, for locals and tourists alike, so go in the early morning or evening for a more intimate experience.
2. Matarangi Beach
Grab your swimming togs and surfboard and head to Matarangi Beach. This white sandy beach is the perfect place for a family day out. With a myriad of amenities including a licensed cafe, public toilets, playground, rental baches, and even the Matarangi Fire Station that you can hire out for functions, you’ll have everything you need. Wanting to add a fun festival to your beach adventure? In April each year, attend The Taste of Matarangi for live entertainment, local produce, beer and seafood. If you have a competitive skill for fishing then the annual Easter Sunday Fishing Competition is a must-do activity at the beach.
3. New Chums
Boasting being voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world is this secluded white sandy beach. Surrounded by untouched native bush, no buildings and no roads, you’ll feel like you’re on your own private island. The only facilities here are parking and public toilets at William Mangakahia Lagoon Reserve. Visitors are asked to keep this beach pristine to ensure it maintains the sanctuary feel. So be sure to only leave behind your footprints while you enjoy this hidden gem.
4. Whangapoua Beach
While New Chums may feel you’re at the end of the earth, with no shops or buildings, if you’re looking for a beach nearby with a touch of civilisation, this one’s for you. A white sandy swimming beach that includes a small wharf, boat ramp and general store. Swimming is safe for the whole family here, although the northern part of the beach is sheltered from the waves if you have any non-confident swimmers.
5. Cooks Beach
Sailing across the ocean this beach caught the eye of Captain Cook, and it no doubt will capture yours as well. A perfect holiday destination this white sandy beach is encompassed by tidal estuaries. The southern estuary, Purangi, has a boat ramp, playground, and electric BBQs for use. The northern end is also perfect for younger children due to the shallow waters. If you want an adult moment, relax and lunch at Mercury Bay Estate Winery & Restaurant while overlooking the stunning bay. Or grab some kai from the local Cooks Beach shops. With a menu ranging from classic fish and chips to cooling ice cream on a hot day.
6. Hot Water Beach
Get your hands dirty by digging your own hot water mineral pool at this beach. If you want to avoid sand under your nails then bring a spade/shovel or hire one at a local cafe. This natural wonder has thermal water bubbles rising from below the earth resulting in the ability to make your own spa pool to bathe in. Relax in the hot water while listening to the refreshing waves of the ocean only mere metres away.
7. Hahei Beach
This secluded beach is always dotted with boats in the bay and people on the sand. It’s easy to see why Hahei Beach is so popular. Mostly calm and sheltered from the wind, the water is crystal clear and the waves are soft and gentle. This is the perfect swimming beach. Hahei is between Cooks Beach and Hot Water Beach, and just around the corner from Cathedral Cove. From the shore you look out onto Goat Island / Mahurangi Island. Enjoy a slice of what feels like summer in the Mediterranean in the Coromandel.
