Beaches, hot springs and forest walks east of Auckland.
The Coromandel Peninsula east of Auckland is known for white-sand beaches, kauri forest and a laid-back pace. Two or three days covers Thames, Coromandel Town, Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach.
🚐 About 2.5 hours (around 170 km)
Drive south-east to Thames and follow the coast road north to Coromandel Town. Enjoy fish and chips by the water. Thames has a main street. The coast road is narrow.
A park near the town.
A basic coastal site.
🚐 About 1.5 hours (around 60 km)
Cross the peninsula via the 309 Road and stop at the waterfalls. The 309 Road has waterfalls. Whitianga has a ferry.
A park close to the beach.
A basic site.
🚐 About 40 minutes (around 40 km)
Walk to Cathedral Cove in the morning. Dig your own hot pool at low tide on Hot Water Beach. Cathedral Cove is a walk. Hot Water Beach is at low tide.
A park close to the beach.
A park beside the beach.
🚐 About 2.5 hours (around 180 km)
Drive back via Tairua and Thames. Return via Tairua. Pauanui is a pretty spot.
Near the city.
Near the beach.
Campsite rules, fees and availability change. Check the park or operator website before you go.