The Coromandel Peninsula on New Zealand’s North Island is home to some of the country’s most beautiful coastline, including two of the country’s most iconic sights: Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove. Hot Water Beach is one of the most stunning beaches on New Zealand’s North Island, and a real miracle of nature. Found on the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula, it draws people from the world over to its golden sands, where the hot springs beneath mean you can dig your own spa pool with amazing ocean views. Meanwhile, Cathedral Cove is world-famous for its naturally-formed archway, which offers incredible views looking out onto the beach and ocean.
For those seeking romantic things to do in Rotorua, the peninsula is located 2-3 hours away, making it the perfect end to a scenic road trip, and it can also be reached in a similar time from Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. A whole host of tour operators can take you there from Auckland with ease, and there are also plenty of great things to do near Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove too.
Image by Marina
Kayak around Cathedral Cove
Rated as one of New Zealand’s best sea kayaking adventures, the Cathedral Cove Classic by Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours gives you the opportunity to see far more than just the famous archway. During your kayak tour, you’ll paddle through sea caves, pass islands in the distance and even see the local marine life up close, with photo opportunities galore. After a thrilling two hours paddling around the marine reserve, refuel with coffee, hot chocolate and cookies while soaking up the views of Cathedral Cove.
Enjoy the ultimate road trip without the hassle
Departing from Auckland, the Coromandel day trip tour from Kiwi Day Trips means you can relax as you travel through New Zealand’s countryside and are shown some of the Coromandel’s finest sights. Enjoy the beautiful views along the winding roads, before climbing Mount Paku, an old volcano, and venturing down to Cathedral Cove on foot, with time to swim in its clear blue waters. The afternoon includes lunch and the ultimate thing to do at Hot Water Beach; you’ll be shown the very best spots to dig your own pool, with shovels provided.
Take a cruise around the stunning coastline
One of the top activities in the Coromandel area has to be a boat trip around Mercury Bay’s amazing coastline, and no-one does it better than Cave Cruzer. Take in views of the coastline, rock formations and islands in the distance, see the abundant sea life that lives in this marine reserve and venture into some stunning caves. The cruise even includes a visit inside the Orua Sea Cave, where you’ll be astounded by the echo, and you can even jump in the water for a quick swim or snorkel.
Kick back with a glass of wine
New Zealand is famous for its wineries, and the Coromandel Pensinula is no different; it’s home to the excellent Mercury Bay Estate. After a day trekking along the coast or swimming in the sea, a visit to this family-run vineyard definitely should not go amiss. Producing Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and more, sample the delicious wines at the vineyard’s cellar door, looking out over the vineyard and Mercury Bay, or visit the restaurant to pair your wine with a platter or a wood-fired pizza.
Discover the beauty of the Coromandel Peninsula
If the Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove and the other wonderful sights offered by the Coromandel Peninsula have made your travel wish list, maybe it’s time to visit New Zealand on a tour. Visiting both Auckland and Rotorua, our unmissable New Zealand tours take in the best sights while giving you the freedom to visit your most coveted destinations, with plenty of time to head to the Coromandel Peninsula for an unforgettable day trip.
Featured image by Albert Renn
