Favorite Coromandel Adventures
The Coromandel, often called Coromandel Town, is one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking attractions. Located on the Coromandel Harbor in New Zealand’s Northern Island, it contains clean beaches, hot springs, hiking trails, delicious food, and so much more.
The coastal town is perfect for a holiday. Whether you are an active holidayer or prefer relaxing, Coromandel Town likely has something engaging and beautiful to offer. Book your stay today with Bachcare, you can even bring your pet with our pet friendly stays in Coromandel.
Top Activities To Do in Coromandel
Driving Creek Railway
Things to do in Coromandel
Driving Creek Railway is an hour and fifteen-minute long train trek through Coromandel’s colossal mountains. Throughout the journey, a train driver teaches passengers about Barry Brickell—The founder of Driving Creek.
Aside from a fascinating history lesson, you will enjoy the green Kauri forest. Brickell put a lot of work into regenerating the native forest, and the efforts continue. Brickell was a professional potter, hence the unique pottery placed throughout the railway.
The ride ends at The Eyeful Tower—a wooden tower that sits 165 meters above Coromandel. The final stop offers impressive views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Hot Water Beach
Things to do in Coromandel
Unique to Coromandel, Hot Water Beach is a must-visit attraction and sees visitors from around the world.
The beach has a river of volcanic water flowing beneath it. 64-degree Celsius water rises from Earth’s interior through Hot Water Beach’s sand during low tide so guests can dig out a hot tub to soak in.
Keep in mind that the hot water is only available for two hours on either side of the low tide. If you visit at night, expect to be greeted by glow worms!
Cathedral Cove
Things to do in Coromandel
Cathedral Cove is just a five to ten-minute drive from Hot Water Beach. The cove frames the sandy shore and clear blue water of Hahei Beach. Explore the attraction by foot, boat, kayak, or even snorkel!
Walking to the cove takes approximately 1.5 hours, there and back. The walk is considered easy and offers enticing views of the coastline. A boat or kayak tour gives visitors the chance to see penguins, dolphins, and whales while learning about the region’s history and geology.
Those interested in cozying up with Hahei’s marine life can book a guided dive or snorkel. Divers must be certified, but snorkeling is open to anyone, including imperfect swimmers.
The Lost Springs
Things to do in Coromandel
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What better way to recharge than at a geothermal resort? The Lost Springs resort has a 16,000-year-old mineral-filled geothermal pool. After soaking in the warm water, guests can enjoy pampering from the comfort of a treetop bure.
“Nothing says health, wellness and personal self-care like a day of being pampered at an amazing hot spring resort.” – Katie Newton of Dressr
The treetop bures are complete with the sound of flowing water and surrounded by the native forest. The Lost Springs also has a licensed cafe and restaurant to eat at after. The resort has a variety of packages to choose from, depending on your preferences.
Whitianga Stargazers
Things to do in Coromandel
Whitianga Stargazers is a great way to kick off or end the night. Guests can choose from the following tours: Stars and Constellations, Galaxies, Star clusters, Planets, Moon and Sun, and Galaxy Gazer.
Each course provides visitors the chance to learn more about celestial bodies while gazing through high-level equipment.
However, the Galaxy Gazer Astronomy tour is an all-inclusive experience. You will learn about constellations, star and planet movements, galaxies, and more. You will also get the chance to handle meteorites that are over 4 billion years old.
The Pinnacles Walk
Things to do in Coromandel
Recognized as one of New Zealand’s best hikes, The Pinnacles walk can be done overnight or in a single day, depending on your skill level. Many visitors stay overnight at the Pinnacles Hut or Dancing Can Campsite.
If you spend two days on the trail, you get to see the sunrise and set on the water. The 8-hour trip also showcases a 360-degree panoramic view of Coromandel’s coasts.
Hikers receive a small taste of New Zealand’s history. Kauri bushmen originally carved out the trail for their pack horses in the early 1900s.
New Chums Beach
Things to do in Coromandel
Once you arrive, you will not see a trace of infrastructure, making it the perfect place to regenerate. Visitors may also catch glimpses of marine life, like whales and dolphins.
New Chums Beach is a secluded shore in pristine conditions, located in Wainuiototo Bay. You will have to climb/walk across boulders to reach it, but the white sand and clear water surrounded by native trees are worth it.
The Waterworks
Things to do in Coromandel
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The Waterworks is a theme park situated on 5 acres of Coromandel’s forest and is only 10 minutes from Coromandel Town. The park has over 70 water attractions fit for all ages. You can bring along the entire family as Waterworks even invites dogs to join in on the fun.
In addition to man-made attractions, the waterpark is well-known for its swimming hole, complete with a diving board. Waterworks also offers guests BBQ usage and picnic areas, free of charge. After a long day of swimming, you and your family can snag a picnic area and relax with a hot meal.
Coromandel Coastal Walk
Things to do in Coromandel
The Coromandel coastal walk is a 7-hour round trip complete with unmatched views of Coromandel’s upper peninsula. Complete the challenging path by foot or mountain bike.
You can start at Fletcher Bay and end at Stony Bay, or vice versa. Regardless of the path taken, you will pass crystal-like water, greenery including Pohutukawa trees, sandy and stony shores, massive cliffs, and so much more.
The trail’s scenery is fulfilling but unfit for swimming as the water is filled with boulders.
Homegrown Food Trail
Things to do in Coromandel
Coromandel is known for far more than its clear beaches. The Homegrown Food Trail is a year-round activity featuring Coromandel’s best cuisine.
The trail is notorious for its refreshing produce and seafood. Food enthusiasts can expect to sample wine, cheese, mussels, oysters, scallops, macadamias, and more.
New to the region or frequent visitors? Coromandel’s refreshing produce, restaurants, and cafes will fulfill your cravings.
Enjoy Coromandel Activities
Whether you embark on one or all of the above Coromandel activities, you will need somewhere to rest your head at night. Spend your downtime in a Bachcare Coromandel holiday home.
Is there any better feeling than getting in the car on a Friday and driving – just getting away, with nothing but a break in mind? The Coromandel is an ideal location to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Breathe in the beauty of the natural environment and revitalise your energy and wellbeing with a visit to many of our special hideaways, boutique shops and eateries. They truly are Good For Your Soul.
What makes the Coromandel good for your soul?
Renowned for its natural beauty, green pastures, misty rainforests and pristine golden beaches, the Coromandel is blessed with hundreds of natural hideaways, making it an ideal place to escape. Plan your travel on the official site for the Coromandel and discover why this destination is good for your soul…
The Coromandel – Winter Wellness Getaways!
Girls weekend away in the Coromandel?
So why not escape to the stunning Coromandel this winter? The shops, cafes, arts and Lost Spring are a great diversion from the usual hustle bustle! #GoodForYourSoul
Chill out and unwind on site for some much-needed R & R, stroll to the beach within 10-15 minutes from your door, or indulge at The Lost Spring within a 2-minute drive. Local amenities, including a supermarket and a selection of dining options, can be easily reached within a couple of minutes drive…
Everything you need for a year-round haven awaits, welcome to Your Modern Beach Pad!
If you thought you’ve explored all that the Coromandel has to offer, then make sure to add this beauty region to your next weekend beach trip, because you honestly can’t get more kiwi then this! To check out our wide array of baches in the Cormandel click here!
Let us know your favorite Coromandel activities in the comments below!
We thought we’d share our itinerary for an utterly romantic weekend getaway in the Coromandel!
Treat your better half to a weekend adventure! Romantic retreats away with your significant other are a wonderful way to enjoy some special moments together and make memories to last a lifetime.
The Coromandel presents itself as the perfect destination to create such memories… Enjoy a weekend getaway, just the two of you.
YOUR GUIDE TO A ROMANTIC WEEKEND AWAY IN THE COROMANDEL
We’ve put together an insider’s guide to your weekend away, focused on extra special places & romantic experiences to help inspire you for your next NZ romantic getaway.
FRIDAY ACTIVITIES
Make Your Way to Your Romantic Retreat in Hahei
5:00pm – Onwards (Or better yet – take the Friday off!)
If you’re heading away with your better half for some well deserved time together, we’d recommend making your way there on Friday so that you can truly sink into some R&R.
It’s hard to beat waking up fresh on a Saturday morning in an idyllic beach town at a handpicked holiday home – with the whole day ahead of you! Aim to arrive in the afternoon, stocking up on goodies from the local Hahei General Store so that you’re all set for the weekend, and then check into your retreat.
Keep dinner easy tonight and stop by the Hungri Hunter Gourmet Food Cottage Takeaway (just next to the general store) for drool-worthy burgers, pizza and classic fish and chips. Simply wander down to Hahei Beach from here and enjoy a Coromandel sunset together.
SATURDAY ACTIVITIES
Prepare a Picnic To Go and Head Out to Brunch
9am – 10am
Before heading off to fuel up with a delicious brunch, pack a picnic for the day ahead! Cathedral Cove is on the agenda today and you’re best to bring some lunch + snacks with you so you can spend the best part of the day there (trust us – you won’t want to leave!).
If you’re anything like us, you need to get caffeinated before embracing the day – once armed with your picnic, head over to Hahei Beach Cafe who serve up a strong drop and great breakfast!
Explore The Paradise That is Cathedral Cove
11am – 2:00pm
Cathedral Cove is a true natural gem that really never gets old. The carpark and start of the walk to Cathedral Cove is just up the hill from the township so it doesn’t take long to get there from your brunch spot. Be warned the car park is often packed and can be quite pricey, take our insiders tip and simply park in town and take the scenic walkway as a warmup for the main event!
The walk down to the cove is a scenic delight. Enjoy winding through coastal farmland and saying hello to some friendly sheep along the way. Take in some epic views and pinch me moments with your loved one from numerous lookouts. You’ll have sand beneath your toes in about 30-45 minutes and would’ve likely worked up a bit of a sweat if you’re visiting in summer. Prepare to be simply blown away – crystal clear blue water and incredible rock formations + native bush behind you make this cove postcard perfect.
Take to the water and allow your surrounds to sink in. Park up and enjoy your picnic (you’ve earned it!). Laze under the sun and walk around the cove, perhaps take a few more dips and when you’re sufficiently blissed out head back up the track.
Relax and Refresh Back at Your Holiday Home
2:00pm – 3:30pm
After ticking off this bucket list item, cruise back to your holiday home (grabbing a couple of ice creams en route!) and freshen up + chill out for a bit.
Kick back on the lawn in the shade with a book or just hang out together in your lovely space to recharge for the rest of the day.
Hot Water Beach
3:30pm – 5pm
Head over to Hot Water Beach, only a 9-minute drive from Hahei township! Create your very own natural spa pool by digging out the sand, and watch as the geothermic springs fill up your spa with hot water!
There’s nothing quite like being submerged in hot water right alongside the ocean, with waves rolling into the shoreline. Take it all in with your loved one and gaze out over this natural wonder.
Quick Refresh Back At Your Holiday Home & Then Dinner
5pm – 8:30pm
Head back to base and take a quick shower before heading out to dinner at Pour House. Conveniently located just behind the Hahei General Store is where you’ll find this funky little establishment. The Pour House is a family-owned craft brewery, bar and restaurant with a fun atmosphere and guaranteed good vibes!
Perch at one of the tables outside in the courtyard or simply sink into one of the bean bags on the lawn. Pour House is usually humming and has an epic selection of locally made beer, wine, cocktails and mouth-watering eats! Take your time with a cold beverage in hand, cheers each other for a day well spent and sample a few goodies to share from the menu.
SUNDAY ACTIVITIES
Sleep In + Pancakes
9:00am – 10:30am
Easy like a Sunday morning! Indulge in some special couple time as you start the day slow. Take advantage of the kitchen and treat your better half to breakfast in bed, or have some fun together and whip up a fluffy batch of pancakes! Take your culinary creation outside and enjoy breakfast al fresco in the sun.
The Lost Spring Whitianga
10:30am -1:30pm
Jump in the car for a 30-minute drive, or take the ferry across to Whitianga where you’ll be escaping reality for the day! It’s here where you will discover The Lost Spring; a perfect retreat for you and your special someone. An utterly indulgent paradise awaits – where 16,000-year-old mineral water springs from 667 meters below ground, emerge pure and sterile, soaking away the everyday. The pools are set in lush subtropical surrounds leaving you feeling as if you have travelled far further than the Coromandel!
Have fun discovering each of the pools and ducking under waterfalls into hidden caves, and enjoy sharing a glass of bubbles or fresh cocktails + scrumptious food poolside. If you’re looking to truly treat yourselves, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment – losing yourself amongst the sound of flowing water and birdsong that fills the lush native bush surrounding you.
The Lost Spring is the perfect retreat for anyone seeking some magic in their lives, and a blissful way to spend some quality time together + ease any sore muscles from yesterdays active pursuits!
Mercury Bay Estate
1:30pm – 4:30pm
Mercury Bay Estate is a boutique, family-owned vineyard and winery. They produce some of the Coromandel’s finest wines and Italian cuisine (sold!).
Sit down, enjoy the stunning views, savour a perfectly put together platter or wood-fired pizza, and have a glass of wine or two. Debrief on a weekend well spent and top off the day with a cheeky tiramisu before making the trip home… or stay another night!
Top Coromandel Holiday Homes
With over 500 holiday homes in the Coromandel, we’ve got a mix of classic Kiwi baches through to beachfront luxury. Based on bookings, site views and guest reviews, here’s the top 10 performing holiday homes in the Coromandel for 2017. View all our Coromandel Accommodation options here.
Property owner? – Bachcare manages a wide range of locations around New Zealand. Providing a hands-off approach that’s perfect for those who want us to manage the whole holiday rental process from start to finish. Ideal if you want a trusted professional on the ground to take care of everything from cleaning the property through to guest preparation.
1. Carmens Beachside Bach, Waihi Beach
7+2 People | 3+1 Bedrooms | 1+1 Bathrooms | Wifi | Pet Friendly | From $275 per night
Carmen’s Beachside Bach is a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Waihi Beach bach. Located along the white sands of Waihi Beach in the Bay of Plenty, this is a popular location for beach goers who love sunshine and surf all summer long. The positioning of the bach could not get any better, with the beach just a few steps away!
This Waihi Beach bach features Wi-Fi, double bedrooms and 2 living areas to ensure everyone enjoys their space! The open plan living flows onto the genrous decking where you can sit back and take in the absolute beachfront views!
The bedding configuration at this Waihi Beach accommodation is comprised of 3 bedrooms plus the second living area. Bedroom 1 is fitted with a king bed, bedroom 2 is fitted with a double bed, and bedroom 3 is fitted with a double bed and 1 single bunk set. Additional sleeping is provided in the second living area with a single bed and a sofa bed.
4. Waters Edge Cottage, Hahei
5 People | 2+1 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | From $185 per night
Waters Edge Cottage is a 2 bedroom Hahei Bach that stays true to its name – a beach cottage in a superb location!! The secluded beachfront bach, nestled in a native bush setting, takes you back to baches of yesteryear when the only things that mattered were when your next swim was due or when the BBQ would be started up!
This Hahei bach looks out onto the beach, with safe swimming and a boat ramp, allowing a good 4wd-boat up to 5 metres, you are free to explore the beauty of Mercury Bay whenever you wish, without queues!!
Waters Edge Cottage is located on a rural bush block situated between Cooks Beach and Hahei, with stunning beach front views to Cooks Beach & the inner Mercury Bay. This Hahei accommodation is just a short drive to Hahei, Hot Water Beach, Cooks Beach, and Whitianga via Ferry Landing… Plan a day trip exploring all that the stunning Coromandel has to offer!
View the full listing for Waters Edge Cottage here
View our extensive list of Cooks Beach Accommodations here
5. At Cathedral Cove, Hahei
8+5 People | 4+1 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Wifi | Pet Friendly | From $285 per night
At Cathedral Cove is a 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom Hahei holiday home with a sleepout and free Wi-Fi. This comfortable and spacious holiday home enjoys a peaceful bush setting with stunning views!
This Hahei holiday home has a bright, open plan living upstairs flowing onto the generous deck. Take in the spectacular panoramic views of Hahei beach and village, as well as the extensive Southern rural outlook… The BBQ is on hand for dining al fresco with a view!
There are 3 bedrooms upstairs at this Hahei accommodation. Bedroom 1 is fitted with a single bed, bedroom 2 is fitted with a queen bed, and bedroom 3 is fitted with 2 singles. 2 of these bedrooms open onto decking for easy summer living. Downstairs, bedroom 4 is fitted with a queen bed. Additional sleeping is provided in the separate sleepout, fitted with 1 double bed, 1 queen bed, and 1 single bunk set.
6. Beach Galore, Waihi Beach
10 People | 5 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Wifi | From $360 per night
Beach Galore is a 5 bedroom 2 bathroom, beachfront Waihi Beach holiday home. Enjoying an absolute beachfront position, this spacious holiday home includes ample room for your group plus Wi-Fi.
This 2 storey Waihi Beach holiday home includes generous, open plan living downstairs with views to the beach… Set yourself up on the front lawn for days in the sun with beachfront views! A second living area downstairs offers additional space, and leads onto a BBQ area for easy holiday dining. There is also a smaller, second kitchen on hand that leads onto decking… This is an excellent set up for extended family groups to enjoy their space!
Bedrooms 1 and 2 are situated upstairs at this Waihi Beach accommodation, each with unobstructed sea views. Bedroom 1 is fitted with a super king bed plus 2 king singles, and bedroom 2 is fitted with a king bed and 2 single beds. Downstairs, bedroom 3 includes a queen bed, bedroom 4 is fitted with 1 single, and bedroom 5 is fitted with a queen bed and a single divan bed.
View the full listing for Beach Galore here
9. The Hahei Bach, Hahei
6 People | 3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | From $205 per night
The Hahei Bach is a 3 bedroom original Hahei Bach with beachfront location and stunning views – the perfect getaway for some much needed R & R!
This Hahei bach is a cosy and tidy home that has the classic kiwi bach feel. Indoor/outdoor living is a breeze with a generous deck, BBQ, and outdoor seating! The large, flat section is ideal for soaking up the sun or enjoying a friendly game of your favourite sport. The property is fully fenced so it’s great for the kids – the adults can put their feet up while the kids burn some energy!
This original Hahei accommodation has an open plan layout. Each of the 3 bedrooms is accessed via the living area. Bedroom 1 is fitted with 1 queen sized bed, and bedrooms 2 and 3 each provide 2 singles. There is 1 bathroom at this Hahei Bach with a separate toilet.
10. Taatletails Rest, Whitianga
8+4 People | 5+1 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Wifi | From $300 per night
Taatletails Rest is a 5 bedroom 3 bathroom Whitianga holiday house with Wi-Fi. This beautifully presented Coromandel house enjoys a great location on the waterways, just moments from local amenities and a few minutes to the beach!
This 2 storey Whitianga holiday house includes modern open plan living upstairs, with a gorgeous outlook to the waterways. The comfortably appointed living area is an ideal spot to unwind and admire the scenery, with generous windows to bring the outdoors in… For the perfect summer spot, enjoy the deck area for BBQ’s! A second living, dining, and kitchenette area downstairs ensures an excellent group set up, with easy outdoor flow onto the patio.
Upstairs at this Whitianga accommodation, the master bedroom is fitted with a queen bed. Bedroom 2 also has a queen bed, while bedroom 3 has 2 single beds. Downstairs, bedroom 4 has 2 extra large single beds that can be zipped together to make a king bed. There is also a sofa bed in the downstairs lounge area when required.
Do you agree with our top things to do in Coromandel?
Any others from the collection that you think will be star performers in 2018? Leave a note in the comments below! Discover the full 2018 Coromandel collection here from Bachcare
