Auckland to Coromandel Road Trip – Coromandel Peninsula Itinerary

With its golden beaches, hidden bays, misty rainforests, and stunning waterfalls, the Coromandel is a dream destination! Having visited numerous times, I totally get why every New Zealander seems to escape here in the summer.

Below I share my 7, 5 & 3 day Coromandel road trip itineraries, designed to immerse you in all the incredible scenery that Coromandel has to offer, from lounging on sun-kissed sands to uncovering secret waterfalls and bays and the unmissable sights like Cathedral Cove.

As someone who has wandered through these scenic routes a few times, I promise you’re in for an unforgettable journey.

How many days on the Coromandel?

I recommend spending at least 3-5 days on this Coromandel road trip in order to see the top Coromandel attractions. It will take you closer 7-10 days in order to visit and enjoy the full peninsula.

Remember that driving around the Coromandel takes longer than usual as the roads are steep and windy. On top of that, many of the activities and attractions are tide dependant which might complicate logistics.

Coromandel Road Trip – best route

The Coromandel Peninsula is a beautiful corner of New Zealand that, but beyond Cathedral Cove, is unfortunately often overlooked. But I promise you, it’s worth every second of your time and every drop of fuel in your tank!

So book your rental car and embark on the ultimate road trip to explore the Coromandel Peninsula!

The best route for an Auckland to Coromandel road trip will take you from Auckland to Thames and from there along the western coast of the Coromandel Peninsula to Coromandel town.

From Coromandel town you can do an optional return trip up the gravel roads to Port Jackson or cross east to Whanapoua and New Chums Beach. Then head South along the eastern coast to visit Whitianga, Cathedral Cove, and Whangamata.

Go all the way south to Waihi Beach before turning back inland to Karangahape Gorge. From Karangahape you can either loop back to Auckland or continue your North Island road trip.

7 day Auckland to Coromandel Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Auckland to Thames

Total drive time: 2h 15min
Total distance: 140km (87 miles)

Kick off your Coromandel adventure with a leisurely drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to Thames—your portal to the peninsula’s treasures.

The most direct route takes about a 1.5-hour drive covering roughly 114 kilometers, but this journey is not just about the destination—it’s about savoring the stops along the way.

Clevedon Farmers Market

Drive from Auckland: 35min / 40km (25 miles)
Suggested stop: 1.5h

First things first, let’s make a pit stop at the charming little town of Clevedon. It’s not just your typical sleepy village; on Sundays, it transforms into a vibrant farmers market buzzing with fresh produce and local crafts.

It’s so charming, you might find yourself contemplating an impulsive career shift to artisanal cheese-making.

Hunua Regional Park & Falls

Drive from Clevedon: 15min / 14km (8.5 miles)
Suggested stop: 1h

Next, stretch your legs at Hunua Regional Park. A brisk walk to the stunning 30-meter Hunua Falls, a great backdrop for that Instagram shot. The cascading water is so picturesque, it feels like Mother Nature showing off just a little.

Wairoa Loop Track

Drive from Hunua: 15min / 13km (8 miles)
Suggested stop: 2h

Feeling extra adventurous? Try the Wairoa Loop Track, where you’ll wobble across a suspension bridge like an extra in an Indiana Jones movie. Don’t worry, this one’s safe!

Thames

Drive from Wairoa: 1h / 72km (45 miles)
Suggested stop: overnight

End the day in the historic town of Thames. Rich in gold mining history, it’s like stepping into another era—think goldminers and Victorian nostalgia. Explore the Thames School of Mines or the Thames Goldmine Experience.

Day 2 – Coromandel Forest Park

Total drive time: 2h 10min
Total distance: 107 km (66 miles)

Today you’ll explore the beauty of Coromandel Forest Park, a lush expanse filled with native flora and fauna. Afterward, enjoy a scenic drive up to Coromandel town. 

You can choose between two adventures in the wild: the Pinnacles hike or Sleeping God Canyon.

A) The Pinnacles Hike

Drive from Thames to The Pinnacles Trailhead: 30 min / 25 km (16 miles)
Hike duration: 7 hours round trip

The Pinnacles Hike is steep and demanding, but the reward is beyond words! Begin your journey in the verdant forest, traversing the Kauaeranga Kauri Trail over streams and swing bridges.

After approximately 3 hours, you’ll reach the Pinnacles Hut, where the real thrill begins—a climb to the summit awaiting your triumphant arrival with expansive views across the Coromandel Peninsula.

B) Sleeping God Canyon

Drive from Thames to meeting point: 15 min / 13 km (8 miles)
Tour duration: 9 h

The Sleeping God Canyon tour remains an unticked adventure on my bucket list so please do this one for me and let me know how it went. It promises a day filled with over 300 metres of abseils and waterfall jumps followed by a flying fox.

Rappelling down 80-metre high waterfalls, navigating exhilarating water slides, and tackling 14-metre high jumps into deep pools is certain to push your limits like never before.

For those thrill-seekers out there, this is a can’t-miss experience! And if you’re not up for some of the big jumps, you have the option of abseiling or scrambling down a maintenance path.

Book your Canyoning tour

Scenic Thames Coastal Road

Drive to Coromandel Town: 1h 40min / 82 km (51 miles)
Suggested stop: overnight

The scenic drive to Coromandel town will perhaps be one of the highlights of your trip. Enjoy every twist and turn, savor every view, and let the beauty of the land enrich your journey.

As you wind through charming coastal towns, past pristine beaches, and through tree tunnels, the road will climb, offering spectacular views over the Hauraki Gulf before descending into the welcoming arms of Coromandel town.

Day 3 – Coromandel to Whitianga

Total drive time: Approximately 2h (including detours)
Total distance: About 93 km (58 miles)

Start your day with a delightful stroll through Coromandel Town. Your travels today will lead you through curious railway rides, winding roads with hidden gems, and idyllic beaches that rival postcards.

Coromandel Town

Suggested stop duration: 1h

Coromandel Town is the perfect place to soak in some local culture by exploring quaint art galleries and savoring a cup of coffee. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the scenic bays of Long Bay and Ruffins Bay.

Tokatea Hill Lookout

Drive from Coromandel: 12 min / 7 km (4 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 20 min

Head north from Coromandel to the Tokatea Hill Lookout, which boasts sweeping views in every direction. Driveup Kennedy Bay Road and enjoya brief 15-minute walk to the lookout from the road.

You also have the option of hiking the The Kaipawa Trig Track to the lookout. The hike is 6 km (3.7 miles) from the Pacific Coast Highway, just outside of Coromandel town.

Driving Creek Railway Explorer

Drive from Tokatea: 8 min / 4 km (2.5 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 1.5 hours

The Driving Creek Railway was built by the talented potter and artist Barry Brickell. Originally a practical railway for transporting clay and timber, it has now become a fun tourist attraction.

Enjoy a scenic ride through native forests, crossing bridges, navigating tunnels, and marveling at panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf from the top. Beyond the ride, the site plays a significant role in revitalizing native flora and fauna.

309 road to Waiau Falls

Drive from Waiau Falls: 25 min / 14 km (9 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 30 min each

Backtrack slightly and take a short detour onto the 309 road. There are several stops you might want to take as you drive towards Waiau falls.

First, meet Stuart and the pigs. His adorable band of free-roaming piglets snuffle about with a blissful disregard for life’s hustle, offering a real-life fairy tale experience—minus the big bad wolf.

Next, let your curiosity lead you to The Waterworks, a park filled with quirky, water-powered inventions. It’s where fun and learning collide, and where you might find yourself giggling while getting a splash or two.

Finally, reward your adventurous spirit with a dip in the Waiau Falls. Just a skip and a hop from the carpark you’ll find the cascading and the perfect refreshing plunge pool. It’s nature’s own jacuzzi—cool, clear, and twice as tranquil.

Whangapoua Beach

Drive from Waiau Falls: 40 min / 29 km (18 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 1h

Whangapoua Beach often slips under the radar en route to its famous neighbor, New Chums Beach. is a perfect spot for stepping away from the usual tourist trail.

However, take a moment to spread out your picnic blanket here, and you’ll quickly realize it’s a hidden gem worth savoring. With its golden sands stretching against the backdrop of lush, rolling dunes, Whangapoua offers the perfect escape for a leisurely lunch and a dose of serenity. 

New Chums Beach

Walk from Whangapoua Beach: 5km return / 1h return
Suggested stop duration: 1h

Renowned as one of the world’s top beaches, New Chums Beach is the sort of place that turns travel dreams into reality. Getting there is an adventure in itself, but oh, is it worth the effort!

Begin your trek from Whangapoua Beach (ensure it’s low tide), cross the stream, and traverse a rocky shoreline that leads you to this hidden paradise of white-golden sands framed by untouched greenery.

Not only is the beach itself stunning, but a quick 10-minute scramble up to the unofficial viewpoint will offer sweeping vistas over the bay.

Whitianga

Drive from Whangapoua: 40min / 37km (23 miles)
Suggested stop duration: overnight

After a day filled with scenic detours and breathtaking landscapes, you’ll arrive to the charming coastal town of Whitianga. Stroll along the marina and enjoy the vibrant town atmosphere with its boutique shops and cafes.

For dinner, try Stoked Restaurant and Bar. Located on the waterfront, it offers beautiful bay views and a diverse menu featuring fresh, local ingredients with options from seafood to vegetarian.

Day 4 – Whitianga & Cathedral Cove

Total travel time:

If you do the boat tour – just a quick 5 min drive to the hot springs

To Hahei & Cathedral Cove and back – 1h 20min round trip / 86 km (54 miles)

To Hahei and end in Whitianga – 1h 35min / 100 km (362 miles)

Today you’ll visit the absolute highlight – Cathedral cove. You can choose to do so by boat from Whitianga or you can drive to HaHei. From there you can chose to come back to Whitianga or continue to Whangamata.

I recommend you do the boat tour and spend another night in Whitianga. This way you can use the evening to get pampered at the lost springs. If you feel like you didn’t have enough time on Hahei beach or really want to see Hot Water beach you have the chance to stop there on your way to Whangamata on day 5.

If you decide to drive you’ll be able to spend more time on Hahei beach and potentially visit Hot Water beach (totally overrated in my opinion). Once you’re done you have two options – return to Whitianga for the springs or continue to Whangamata and spend the night there.

Glass Bottom Boat Tour to Cathedral Cove

Tour duration: 2-2.5h

From Whitianga, this glass-bottom boat tour takes you to Cathedral Cove. You’ll see sea caves, explore towering rock formations, and witness a diverse array of marine life beneath your feet through the glass bottom.

The tour includes a visit to the Orua Sea Cave and with opportunities to swim and snorkel.

Book your glass-bottom boat tour

Cathedral Cove

Trip duration: 2h boat tour or 40 min drive + 2.5h walk return
Suggested stop duration: 1 to 2 hours

Cathedral Cove is only accessible by boat or on foot via the Cathedral Cove track. I highly recommend this glass-bottom boat tour from Whitianga (it saves you some driving) but you also have the option of taking a water taxi from Hahei beach.

If you opt for the walk, begin at Hahei Beach, and hike for just over an hour along a 2.5 km (1.6 miles) well-maintained track. The path leads you through forested areas and along cliff edges, offering spectacular views before you descend to the beach.

The cove’s natural archway and waterfall are major draws, often considered one of the must-see spots on New Zealand’s North Island.

Hahei Beach

Drive from Whitianga: 40 min / 35 km (22 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 1 to 2 hours

Hahei beach is the starting point (and the ending point) of the Cathedral Cove walk. It’s a beautiful, sheltered bay, perfect for picnicking or enjoying the clear waters and one of the most stunning beaches in New Zealand.

Optional Hot Water Beach

Drive from Hahei: 10 min / 8 km (5 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 1 hour

Hot Water Beach is known for its natural hot springs bubbling through the sand. It’s a popular spot for digging your own hot pool in the sand, but it can get very crowded and not at all relaxing.

To be perfectly honest, I think Hot Water Beach is highly overrated and very much a tourist trap.

Insider tip: There is another, much nicer hot water beach near Kawhia on the west coast of the North Island that is equally beautiful but far less crowded, making it a much nicer alternative to this hotspot.

Lost Springs Whitianga

Drive from Hot Water Beach: 30 min / 33 km (20 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 2 – 3 hours

Conclude your day at The Lost Spring in Whitianga. This serene spot features geothermal pools (the jungle hot pools were my favorite) surrounded by lush rainforest, a treetop spa, and a restaurant.

Relax in the warm waters with a cocktail in hand—poolside service ensures you’re well-catered without leaving the comfort of the pool. Consider indulging in a massage to fully unwind and soak in the tranquility.

Day 5 – Whangamata and Donut Island

Total drive time: 1h 30min
Total distance: 81km (50 miles)

If you spent the night in Whitianga you’ll have an approximately 1.5h drive to Whangamata which you can break up with a short hike up to Mt. Paku.

You also have the option of stopping at Hahei or Hot Water Beach if you didn’t do so yesterday. This will add about 50 km (31 miles) to your trip.

If you spent the night in Whangamata, you can get straight to the good stuff.

Optional Hahei, Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach

Drive from Whitianga: 40 min / 35 km (22 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 1 to 2 hours

Consider this detour if you took the boat tour yesterday but want to also experience the Cathedral Cove walk. Here’s your chance to walk through Cathedral Cove, lounge on Hahei Beach, or try Hot Water Beach again if the tides weren’t right the day before.

Keep in mind, these stops might cut into your surfing and beach time at Whangamata. It’s a tough choice, but it’s all about what makes your day perfect!

Mt Paku Summit

Drive from Whitianga: 45min / 43km (27 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 45min – 1h

If your legs start cramping and your rear feels numb from all the driving, a 45-minute walk up Mt. Paku is just what you need to get the blood flowing.

This exposed dome of lava was once an island, now connected to the peninsula by a strip of land. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with extensive views of Tairua, the estuary, and the central ranges.

It’s the perfect way to stretch out and appreciate the stunning landscape from above!

Surf in Whangamata

Drive from Mt Paku: 40min
Suggested stop duration: 39km (24 miles)

Once you hit Whangamata, dive into the surf town vibes head first. With its gentle surf, Whangamata is the ideal place to catch your first wave.

Book your surf lessons and friendly local instructors will guide you through the basics, ensuring you’re up and riding in no time.

When you finally stand up on that board, you’ll feel an exhilarating rush that’s totally worth the inevitable wipeouts. It’s all part of the fun—and who knows, you might just be the next surf legend in the making!

Book your surf lessons

Donut Island

Tour duration:

Next, join this kayaking tour to Whenuakura Island just off the coast of Whangamata Beach. This unique donut-shaped island (hence the nickname Donut Island) is actually an old dormant volcano hiding a tranquil lagoon at its center.

To reach this hidden paradise, you’ll paddle through a sea cave, emerging into a peaceful oasis where the sounds of nature surround you. The experience is nothing short of magical, and paddling here remains one of my all-time favorite adventures!

The departure times vary according to tide so make sure to consider this when planning your day.

Book you kayaking tour to Donut Island

Whangamata

Whangamata is a charming surf town that perfectly captures the relaxed coastal vibe Coromandel is known for. With its stunning beaches, perfect surf breaks, and friendly atmosphere, it’s a place you might want to stay at forever.

In the evening head into town to soak up the lively yet laid-back ambiance and grab a juicy burger at Soul Burger.

Day 6 – Whangamata to Waihi

Total drive time: Approximately 1h 15min (including detours)
Total distance: About 70 km (43 miles)

Start your morning soaking up the surfer vibes in Whangamata and treat yourself to brunch at Blackies Café, where the coffee is strong, and the muffins are irresistible. Once you’re fueled up, hit the road towards Waihi Beach.

Wentworth Valley

Drive from Whangamata: 15 min / 8 km (5 miles)
Hike duration: 1.5-2 hours

Just a short drive from Whangamata lies the trailhead to Wentworth Falls. Don’t mix this one up with its Australian namesake; this kiwi gem is more humble in height but lush in beauty.

The easy 3 km walk guides you along the Wentworth river through verdant forests and across bridges to the top of the falls, where you can soak in the views. It’s a perfect little escape into nature.

Waihi Beach

Drive from Wentworth Valley: 30 min / 42 km (26 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 2-3 hours

With its long stretch of sandy shores, Waihi Beach is the perfect place to unwind and have that perfect Kiwi summer escape. Whether you’re riding the waves with your newfound surfing skills or just enjoying the sand between your toes, Waihi Beach is all about taking it easy.

Homunga Bay

Looking for an adventure? Head over to Homunga Bay. The trail offers a scenic route with stunning coastal views and leads to a secluded beach. For me, the highlight of this adventure was the secret waterfall.

There are three ways to reach Homunga Bay:

• 3 hours from Waihi Beach,
• 1.5 hours from Orokawa Bay,
• or 45 to 60 minutes from Ngatitiangata Road.

Bowentown lookout

Drive from Waihi Beach: 10 min / 8 km (5 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 30 min

A short drive brings you to Bowentown, where you can take a quick walk up to the Bowentown Lookout. From here, the vistas stretch out towards Matakana Island, and on a clear day, you might catch a glimpse of folks atop Mt. Maunganui waving back.

Day 7 – Waihi to Auckland

Total drive time: Approximately 2h
Total distance: About 153 km (95 miles)

As your Coromandel journey nears its end, start your day with a refreshing morning dip at Waihi Beach. Once refreshed, you’ll head off to Karangahake Gorge or, if biking strikes your fancy, hop onto the Waihi to Paeroa stretch of the Hauraki Rail Trail on your way back to Auckland.

Karangahake Gorge

Drive from Waihi Beach: 25 min / 23 km (5 miles)
Suggested stop duration: 1-4h

Explore the breathtaking Karangahake Gorge along the Ohinemuri River, where a variety of walks take you through lush landscapes, over suspension bridges, and into historic tunnels. These trails not only offer stunning views but also a glimpse into the rich mining history of the gorge.

The tunnel walk guides you through old railway tunnels beside the river, while the historic trail showcases Owharoa Waterfall and the remnants of Victoria Battery, an iconic gold processing site.

Hauraki Rail Trail

You can also explore the gorge by bike and tackle the Waihi to Paeroa section of the Hauraki Rail Trail, stretching 24 km one way. This ride takes you through the heart of the Karangahake Gorge, offering a variety of landscapes and historic sites along the way.

It’s an engaging way to explore the region without committing to the entire 200-kilometer Hauraki Rail Trail.

OPTIONAL Day – Port Jackson and Fletcher Bay

Total drive time: Approximately 3.5-4h round trip from Coromandel Town
Total distance: About 125 km (78 miles) round trip

If you have an extra day beyond your seven-day itinerary and a car that can handle gravel roads, do not miss the detour to Port Jackson and Fletcher Bay from Coromandel town. These remote northern destinations are the kind that make the journey utterly rewarding.

Depart Coromandel town, and as the paved roads turn to gravel, you’ll be driving alongside the sea, with breathtaking views and thrilling cliffs. Remember, this road is not for nighttime or severe weather travel, but for those who brave it, the untouched beauty of Port Jackson will be well worth the trip.

For an extraordinary hiking experience, set out on the Coromandel Coastal Walkway between Fletcher Bay and Stony Bay. This trail is one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets, offering jaw-dropping views over Great Barrier Island and Cuvier Island.

At 20 kilometers round trip, it takes about 7 hours to complete, with an option to loop back through a more challenging mountain biking track. Consider camping at the DOC campsite in Stony Bay to make it a memorable overnight adventure.

5 day Coromandel Itinerary

This 5-day Coromandel itinerary offers a compact yet exhilarating journey through some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery.

In contrast to the 7-day itinerary, this one takes a counterclockwise route across the peninsula and skips Waihi Beach and some of the stops along the way but ensures you don’t miss any of the must see destinations on a Coromandel road trip.

Day 1 – Whangamata and Donut Island

Total drive time: 2h 15min or 2h 30min with Karangahake Gorge
Total distance: 160 km (99 miles) or 175 km (109 miles) with Karangahake Gorge

Optional Karangahake Gorge
Take the little detour on your way from Auckland to Whangamata and enjoy the stunning scenery and historical mining tunnels at Karangahake Gorge. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs.

Surf in Whangamata | Book your surf lessons
Dive head first into the surf vibes in Whangamata. It’s a prime spot for both seasoned surfers and beginners looking to catch some waves. If you never tried before, book some ruf lessons.

Donut Island | Book you kayaking tour to Donut Island
Take a kayak tour to explore the hidden lagoon inside of Donut Island, a volcanic island with a collapsed blowhole located just offshore.

Stay in Whangamata | Stay at Brenton Lodge or Southpacific Motel
Settle in for the night at one of Whangamata’s cozy accommodations,

Day 2 – Cathedral Cove

Total drive time: 1h 30min
Total distance: 100km (62 miles)

Mt Paku Summit
Break up your drive with a short hike up Mt Paku for panoramic views of Tairua.

Hahei Beach and Cathedral Cove | Book a Cathedral Cove water taxi
Spend the afternoon at Hahei Beach and make your way to the iconic Cathedral Cove. It’s accessible by a 45-minute one-way walk or by taxi boat.

Optional Hot Water Beach
Visit during low tide to dig your own natural hot pool in the sand.

Stay in Whitianga | Stay at  Sovereign Pier or Oceans 88
Head to Whitianga in the evening, where you can choose from a range of comfortable accommodations.

Day 3 – Whitianga to Coromandel

Total drive time: Approximately 1.45 hours
Total distance: About 75 km (47 miles)

Glass Bottom Boat Tour to Cathedral Cove | Book your glass-bottom boat
Start your morning with a unique glass-bottom boat tour to discover the underwater world of Cathedral Cove. It’s a completely different experience than the walk there!

Whangapoua Beach and New Chums Beach
Visit Whangapoua Beach, and take a 30-minute walk to the secluded New Chums Beach, known for its untouched beauty.

Tokatea Hill Lookout
Hop over to Tokatea Hill Lookout for sunset. You’ll get stunning views over Coromandel town and the surrounding areas.

Stay in Coromandel Town | Stay at Atea Lodge or Seaview Motel
Rest for the night in this charming town with various lodging options.

Day 4 – Coromandel to Thames

Total drive time: Approximately 1.5 hours (excludes stops)
Total distance: About 75 km (47 miles)

Coromandel Town
Spend the early morning exploring the charming shops and local eats in Coromandel Town.

Driving Creek Railway Explorer
Embark on a unique train ride through native bush, offering spectacular views.

309 Road to Waiau Falls
As you travel towards Thames, take a scenic detour along the 309 Road to witness the picturesque Waiau Falls. Make sure to check out The Waterworks and you cant miss Stewart and the pigs.

Scenic Thames Coastal Road
Enjoy a leisurely drive along the beautiful coastal road into Thames.

Stay in Thames | Stay at Grafton Cottage or Lady Bowen B&B
Complete your day by relaxing in Thames with plenty of accommodation options.

Day 5 – Coromandel Forest Park

Total drive time: Approximately 2.5 hours (excludes stops)
Total distance: About 155 km (96 miles)

Explore the Coromandel Forest Park on the Pinnacles hike or this canyoning trip before heading back to Auckland.

A) The Pinnacles Hike
Set out early for a full-day hike to The Pinnacles, a rewarding trail that offers breathtaking views of the Coromandel Peninsula.

B) Sleeping God Canyon | Book your Canyoning tour
Book this canyoning tour for an adventure-filled day featuring over 300 meters of abseils and natural water slides.

3 day Coromandel Itinerary

This compact yet comprehensive 3-day Coromandel itinerary is designed to showcase the best of the Coromandel Peninsula, offering action-packed days with a sprinkle of relaxation, ensuring your journey is nothing short of unforgettable.

Day 1 – Auckland to Coromandel

Total drive time: Approximately 2.5 hours
Total distance: About 170 km (106 miles)

Thames
Kick off your adventure with a quick stop in Thames, soaking in the historical charm and vibrant markets.

Thames Scenic Drive
Enjoy the picturesque views along the coast, perfect for some early road-trip selfies. You’ll be driving past some stunning bays and beaches so take the chance for a swim.

309 Road to Waiau Falls
Navigate the famed 309 Road, a twisting gravel path leading to the lush Waiau Falls—ideal for a refreshing dip. Make sure to also check out The Waterworks and Steve’s piglets.

Driving Creek Railway Explorer
All aboard for a unique journey through native bush, offering spectacular vistas from every angle.

Tokatea Hill Lookout
Just a short drive away, this lookout provides a sweeping view of Coromandel Town and beyond.

Stay in Coromandel Town | Stay at Atea Lodge or Seaview Motel
Take in the artistic and cozy vibes in Coromandel Town. Grab dinner at Pepper Tree restaurant and settle in for the night.

Day 2 – Whitianga & Cathedral Cove

Total drive time: Approximately 2.5 hour
Total distance: About 151 km (32 miles)

Whangapoua Beach
Start your day basking in the sun at Whangapoua Beach, a charming spot for a morning stroll.

New Chums Beach
A short walk through lush forest leads to this secluded paradise, consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches.

Whitianga
Drive to Whitianga for an early lunch at Espy Cafe.

Hahei Beach and Cathedral Cove | Book a Cathedral Cove water taxi
Enjoy an afternoon at Hahei Beach, and explore the famous Cathedral Cove with its iconic rock formations. You can access it via the Cathedral Cove track or by water taxi.

Optional Hot Water Beach
If you’re visiting during low tide you can dig your own hot pool in the sand. Just be ready for some crowds.

Stay in Whangamata | Stay at Brenton Lodge or Southpacific Motel
Drive to Whangamata in the evening and settle in for the night.

Day 3 – Whangamata and Donut Island

Total drive time: Approximately 2 hours
Total distance: About 160 km (99 miles)

Surf in Whangamata | Book your surf lessons
Dive into the surf scene in Whangamata, perfect for both pros and novices looking to catch a wave.

Lunch in Whangamata
Take in the surf vibes in Whangamata and refuel with a leisurely lunch at Six Forty Six.

Donut Island | Book you kayaking tour to Donut Island
Kayak to the mystical Donut Island, where the adventure truly peaks with its secretive allure and natural beauty.

Optional Karangahake Gorge
Before heading back, consider a side trip to Karangahake Gorge, rich with history and stunning trails.

Getting to the Coromandel & around

The Coromandel Peninsula is located East of Auckland, across the Hauraki Gulf and it frames the Bay of Plenty on the North West.

The best way to explore the Coromandel is with your own wheels. So rent a car and enjoy your Auckland to the Coromandel road trip!

Auckland to Thames: It is 114 km from Auckland to Thames and the drive takes 1.5 hours.

Auckland to Coromandel town: It is 168 km from Auckland to Thames and the drive takes 2 hours and 20 minutes. The ferry across the gulf takes about 2 hours.

Best time to visit the Coromandel

Coromandel is definitely a popular beach destination and if swimming and sunbathing is your jam, then you should visit in Summer when the weather is hot and dry. But keep in mind that the Coromandel is a very busy in summer and you will need to book everything in advance.

The best time to visit the Coromandel is late spring and early autumn when it’s not too busy and the weather is fantastic. It might not be as hot as in the peak of summer but the days are long and the weather is still dry and sunny, perfect to explore every nook and cranny of this beautiful area of New Zealand.

From June on, the Coromandel goes into winter hibernation. A lot of the shops and restaurants close, the days are short, the crowds are gone and the beach has a completely different look and feel.

Tide times Coromandel

Some of the activities and attractions in the Coromandel can only be accessed during low tide, or a couple of hours either side of low tide to be exact. Keep this in mind when visiting New Chums Beach, Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach (should you choose to join the pigs in the mud).

During high tide access to these attractions floods and becomes dangerous. You can check Coromandel tide times here.

New Zealand travel insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when travelling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

ACC in New Zealand covers you for accidents but if you get sick or loose your luggage you’ll need a good insurance to cover it for you.

We always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations here.