Soak and relax at The Lost Spring
We’re lucky enough to have a private walkway leading directly from our Whitianga apartments to the Lost Spring—the township’s premier place for pampering. Soak in the geothermal pools, book a rejuvenating treatment in the Treetop Day Spa then enjoy a divine long lunch and refreshing drink alongside the lush tropical lagoon.
Visit Cooks Beach
Just across the other side of the estuary is the little town of Cooks Beach, accessible via a short and cheap ferry ride. Once you reach the other side, you can walk down to the beautiful Front Beach, tackle one of the hiking trails through the lush native bush or stroll down to popular restaurant Eggsentric to admire the art and enjoy a tasty lunch.
Visit Cathedral Cove
If you haven’t yet experienced Cathedral Cove, make time to fit it into your Whitianga holiday! The unspoilt marine environment surrounding Cathedral Cove is only accessible only by foot or by boat. If walking, it’ll take around an hour to get there from Hahei Beach after your 40-minute drive from Whitianga, but you’ll be rewarded with the iconic arched cavern, sparkling white sands, and beautiful Pohutukawa trees. Otherwise, you can book one of the kayak or boat tours that’ll take you on an epic adventure through the sea caves and interact with the local wildlife. If walking, we recommend taking your swimsuit and a picnic! Just be sure to take your rubbish with you when you leave.
Dig your own spa at Hot Water Beach
Arguably the Coromandel’s other most popular attraction, Hot Water Beach is just half an hour away. Arrive two hours either side of the tide, head up towards the rocks on at the southern end of the beach, and dig your own natural hot pool to relax in. If you didn’t bring your own spade on holiday, don’t worry! You can hire one from one of the friendly local cafes.
Have a splash at The Waterworks
The playgrounds in Whitianga are pretty fantastic, but we also have some great local attractions that our little visitors simple adore. The Waterworks is said to carry the title of being the ‘Quirkiest Place in New Zealand’—with dozens of fun activities for kids and parents too including waterslides, swimming holes, mazes and fun rides.
Get out on the water—minus the fishing!
If fishing’s not your thing, a ride on the glass bottom boat might be up your alley instead! See what’s below the surface at Cathedral Cove and snorkel to your heart’s content. For kids, the local banana boat is always a popular choice—or you could hire a jet ski or kayak and skip across the water at your own pace.
Go on a fishing charter
A day out on the water is another Coromandel ‘must-do’! If you’re an avid fisherman or simply keen to give fishing a red hot go, Epic Adventures would be happy to take you out for the day! Their team will show you the best techniques and all the best local spots to fish for snapper, kingfish or hapuka. They’ll provide all the gear and the expertise, so all you need to bring is yourself!’
Go hiking or mountain biking
If water’s not your thing and you prefer to keep your feel (or wheels) on solid ground, you’ll be excited to know that there are an incredible 33 trails surrounding Whitianga. Some have historical significance, others have jaw-dropping ocean views, and others will have you gazing at some remarkable flora and fauna. If you have a group of both walkers and mountain bikers, try the 2.3km loop that is the Whitianga Bike Park.
