Photo: LiCheng Shih / CC BY 2.0
Hahei is a serene coastal village on the Coromandel Peninsula, known for its stunning white-sand beach, clear turquoise waters, and the iconic Cathedral Cove. It's a perfect base for exploring the area's natural wonders, with a laid-back vibe that invites you to slow down and soak in the scenery.
Highlights & What to See
- Cathedral Cove: A breathtaking sea cave and beach accessible by a scenic coastal walk or boat tour. The archway and golden sand are a photographer's dream.
- Hahei Beach: A crescent-shaped beach ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. The calm waters are perfect for families.
- Hot Water Beach: A short drive away, where you can dig your own hot pool in the sand at low tide. It's a unique geothermal experience.
- Te Pare Point: A headland offering panoramic views of the coastline and a historic Māori pā site.
- Gemstone Bay: A snorkeling spot with a marine reserve, teeming with fish and clear waters.
Suggested Time to Spend
Spend at least two days to fully enjoy Hahei and its surroundings. One day for Cathedral Cove and Hahei Beach, and another for Hot Water Beach and nearby walks. If you're short on time, a day trip from Whitianga or Tairua is possible, but you'll miss the peaceful evenings.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Cathedral Cove: The star attraction, easily reached on foot or by water taxi.
- Hot Water Beach: A must-visit for its natural hot springs, best timed with low tide.
- Whitianga: A larger town with dining, shopping, and the ferry to Cooks Beach and Shakespeare Cliff.
- Tairua: A charming coastal town with a surf beach and the hike up Mount Paku.
- Coromandel Town: Known for its arts scene, the Driving Creek Railway, and gold mining history.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Cathedral Cove — Krzysztof Golik / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Hot Water Beach — Steve & Jem Copley Camera location 36° 53′ 12″ S, 175° 49′ 23.42″ E View this and other nearby images on: OpenStreetMap -36.886667; 175.823173 / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Whitianga — Ulrich Lange, Bochum, Germany / CC BY 3.0
- Tairua — Oren Rozen / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Coromandel Town — Pseudopanax at English Wikipedia / Public domain
- Cooks Beach — Steve Cadman from London, U.K. / CC BY-SA 2.0