Cathedral Cove

Cathedral Cove Beach showing general coastal views, rocky coastline and a sunset
Cathedral Cove Beach
Cathedral Cove Beach
Cathedral Cove Beach
Cathedral Cove Beach


Enter the white sand beach through a natural rock archway, the perfect frame for your photos of the rocky islands and clear waters of this marine reserve.

New Zealand is full of spectacular scenery, and the Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve in the Coromandel Peninsular is no exception. White rock cliffs, a large pumice island, and a naturally formed archway joining Cathedral Cove Beach to Mares Leg Cove give this beach a distinct look.

The headland here was once the site of a fortified Maori village ruled over by chief Hei. The area is known in the Maori language as Te Whanganui a Hei. Descendants of these people, the Ngati Hei continue their connection to this special place.

Cathedral Cove is only accessible by boat, or on foot through the Cathedral Cove Walking Track. The hiking trail runs from Hahei Beach through coastal scrub and pine forests, with access to Gemstone and Stingray Bays along the way. The return walk takes around 2 hours and is a little hilly, but you are rewarded for your efforts with headland vistas over the water. Wear comfortable walking shoes and take food and water for an oceanfront picnic. Amenities are provided at Cathedral Cove Beach.

Kayak to Cathedral Cove from Hahei Beach through offshore sea caves and over colorful rock gardens, encountering the local wildlife. The sunrise and sunset kayaking tours are an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking colors on the water. There are full day tours for travelers wanting to explore further. Many of these tours provide refreshments or lunch and can be booked from Coromandel Town.

The underwater boulders and rock pinnacles around Cathedral Cove are a haven for fish and molluscs, and since the site is protected from winds, it’s the perfect spot for a snorkel. The whole marine reserve is popular with snorkelers and divers. A snorkel trail runs through stingray habitat at Gemstone Bay. Take a dive tour departing from Hahei Beach out to the deep waters and pinnacle rocks where you can swim amongst huge fish and explore the reefs.

Popular places to visit


Top Cathedral Cove Hotel Deals

Hahei Beach Resort

Hahei Beach Resort

4.5 out of 5
41 Harsant Avenue, Hahei Beach, Hahei
Hahei Beach Resort
Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort

Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort

3 out of 5
9 Grange Road, Hahei
Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort
Waimarie Villa

Waimarie Villa

3 out of 5
9 Grange Road, Hahei
Waimarie Villa
Church Accommodation

Church Accommodation

3.5 out of 5
87 Hahei Beach Road, Hahei
Church Accommodation
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Cathedral Cove

At Cathedral Cove in Hahei, enjoy a scenic boat tour to marvel at the stunning coastal landscapes and unique rock formations. For those who prefer to explore on foot, the Cathedral Cove walk offers a picturesque trail through lush surroundings leading directly to the iconic cove. Whether you choose the boat tour or the walk, you'll be captivated by the natural beauty and charm of this enchanting destination.

Shopping

In Cathedral Cove, you can visit The Coromandel Smoking Co. for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, the Goldfields Shopping Centre offers a wider selection of shops, entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere, located 40.2km away in the heart of Coromandel.

Recreation

Indulge in relaxation at Lost Spring Thermal Pools, where rejuvenating body treatments await you amidst tranquil thermal waters. For a touch of sport, tee off at Pauanui Pines Golf Course or The Lakes Golf Course, both offering stunning outdoor settings and a chance to enjoy the beautiful Kiwi landscape.

Adventure

The Pauanui Tairua Trail, located 24.1km from Cathedral Cove, offers a thrilling hiking experience amidst stunning views. At Flaxmill Bay Camp Grounds, only 8.0km away, you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Additionally, the Hauraki Rail Trail in Thames, 28.0km distant, promises scenic cycling adventures.

Nightlife

In Cathedral Cove, the Combat Zone Paintball and Fun Park, located 14.5km away, promises an exhilarating adventure vibe with its arcade and paintball activities. Perfect for thrill-seekers, it offers a vibrant atmosphere for those looking to unwind and have fun after a day of exploration.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Cathedral Cove

Cathedral Cove in Hahei, Waikato, offers a stunning blend of beach and outdoor experiences, perfect for travellers seeking scenic beauty. Key attractions include the famous Cathedral Cove, Hahei Beach, and the nearby Church Hahei. Visitors can also delve into the natural wonders of Cathedral Cove Beach, making it an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in New Zealand's picturesque coastal landscapes.

  • Hot Water Beach: A unique experience awaits you at Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own hot pool in the sand during low tide. The geothermal springs beneath the surface provide a warm soak, making it a perfect spot for relaxation amidst stunning coastal scenery.
  • Cooks Beach: Renowned for its pristine golden sands and tranquil atmosphere, Cooks Beach offers a peaceful retreat. Ideal for swimming and sunbathing, this picturesque beach is also an excellent launch point for exploring the nearby marine reserve.
  • Lonely Bay Beach: A hidden gem, Lonely Bay Beach features breathtaking views and a sense of seclusion. This idyllic spot is perfect for those seeking a quiet escape, with clear waters and lush surroundings that invite exploration and relaxation.

Best time to go to Cathedral Cove

The best time to visit Cathedral Cove is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July and August are its coolest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January66.2°F (19.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May59.0°F (15.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
July54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
September54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cathedral Cove

To make the most of your visit to Cathedral Cove on a budget, consider travelling during the cheaper months of July to September, when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can secure better rates, and look out for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Sundays are pricier. Additionally, utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter for eco-certified hotels and to combine your accommodation with flights for potential savings. Exploring free activities in the area can also enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Cathedral Cove are July to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Cathedral Cove is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Cathedral Cove is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Cathedral Cove is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay at Cathedral Cove with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.