In a country of unmatched beauty, the Coromandel Peninsula offers some of the best scenery in the New Zealand. Between the pristine, golden beaches and the thick rain forests there literally is something for everyone. And with a pleasant climate and a blossoming ecotourism industry, it’s no wonder that Coromandel accommodation fills up in the summertime.
While you’re in the area, be sure to take in a few great beaches, often considered to be among the best in the country. From the white sand of Waihi to the surprising geothermal activity at the aptly-named Hot Water Beach, you’ll find yourself constantly amazing and impressed by all the Coromandel Coast has to offer. Hole up at a Coromandel holiday park for a few days and get a feel for life off the grid.
The peninsula is just as amazing in the middle as it is on the edges. The Coromandel Range runs right through the centre of the peninsula, at 900 metres above sea level in places. The mountains are carpeted in a thick, subtropical rain forest, and stitched with DOC-operated walking trails and huts to encourage Coromandel camping trips.
And while the untouched and uncivilised pieces of the Coromandel are stunning, the towns have a charm of their own. Due to the geography of the peninsula, most people live on the southern coast of the Coromandel, and mostly in small towns. With only five towns with populations of 1,000 people, this is definitely not a busting, urban region. Rather, take a stroll through the little beach towns, buy an ice cream at the local dairy and lose yourself in the laid back rhythm of life on the Coromandel.
On the east side of the peninsula lies the Bay of Plenty: a wide U of coastline home to some of the country's boating and fishing opportunites as well as Tauranga, one of New Zealand's biggest cities.
Where to stay in Coromandel and Bay of Plenty
Shelly Beach
Shelly Beach is located north of Coromandel. This quiet area is a great spot to escape from civilisation and spend some quality time with nature. Go fishing or kayaking, explore tide pools and walk through the Kauri Grove while staying at Shelly Beach Holiday Park.
Coromandel
Coromandel town is home to beautiful scenery, arts and crafts stores, and some of the best fishing spots. The area also hosts a wide variety of restaurants and cafes, offering a delicious array of locally inspired meals. Book your stay at Coromandel Holiday Park to explore this scenic coastal area.
Hot Water Beach
Whether you live in New Zealand or are just visiting, a day at Hot Water Beach is a must-do for everyone. Geothermal activity causes hot water to flow naturally underneath the sand, and from two hours on either side of low tide, you can reach the hot water just by going at it with a shovel. Walk down to the shore from your Hot Water Beach holiday park and dig your own, personal spa.
Waihi Beach
Waihi Beach is 9kms of white, sandy shore and surf that makes for great boogie boarding, kayaking or kite-boarding. The town of Waihi is an attraction unto itself: an old gold mining town with classic buildings and a vintage train to match its heritage. Don’t miss this gem: be sure to book your Waihi Beach accommodation today.
Papamoa Beach
A northern suburb of Tauranga, Papamoa Beach is a pretty beach, perfect for fishing and surfing. Enjoy a beach getaway with all the conveniences of a big city and look into booking a spot and our Papamoa camping ground today.