Photo by Jeevan Jose on Unsplash
OceaniaPacific/AucklandNew Zealand
Coromandel Peninsula
Hot Water Beach & Cathedral Cove
Local Time
02:20:19 PM
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Pacific/Auckland
Current Weather
About Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula is a rugged, forested peninsula on New Zealand's North Island, famous for Hot Water Beach - where geothermal springs beneath the sand allow you to dig your own hot pool at low tide - and Cathedral Cove, a stunning sea cave and beach that featured in the Narnia films.
Beyond these icons, the Coromandel offers gold-mining heritage towns, pristine pohutukawa-lined beaches, tramping tracks through native kauri forest, and excellent fishing and diving around the Mercury Islands. The peninsula's Pacific Coast Highway is one of New Zealand's most scenic drives.
Best Time to Visit Coromandel Peninsula
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Visit the Coromandel from November to March for warm weather (22-26°C) and the best beach conditions. Hot Water Beach works best 2 hours either side of low tide. Summer holidays (December-January) are extremely busy. Autumn and spring are quieter with pleasant weather.
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Photos of Coromandel Peninsula
Top Highlights
Hot Water Beach
Dig your own hot pool in the sand where geothermal springs emerge - 2 hours either side of low tide.
NatureCathedral Cove
A dramatic sea cave leading to a pristine white sand beach between cathedral-like rock formations.
NatureDriving Creek Railway
A narrow-gauge mountain railway built by potter Barry Brickell through native forest to an eyrie lookout.
CultureNew Chums Beach
Consistently rated NZ's best beach - pristine, undeveloped, and accessible only by a 30-minute coastal walk.
NatureThames Gold Mining
The historic gold-mining town of Thames with mine tours and a museum telling the 1860s gold rush story.
CultureDiving
Excellent diving around the Mercury Islands and Cathedral Cove marine reserve with subtropical fish species.
AdventureTravel Tips
- 1Check tide times before visiting Hot Water Beach - it only works 2 hours either side of low tide.
- 2Cathedral Cove is a 40-minute walk from the car park. Water taxis offer an alternative access.
- 3The peninsula roads are winding and slow - allow more time than GPS suggests.
- 4The Coromandel is 2.5 hours from Auckland. Summer traffic can add significantly to travel time.
- 5Book accommodation well ahead for Christmas-New Year - the peninsula is a favourite Kiwi holiday spot.
- 6Bring a spade for Hot Water Beach - rental shovels are available near the beach.
