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Your guide to the stunning coromandel coastline - part 1:

hikuai to bowentown

ALL OF THIS NEEDS TO BE SENSE CHECKED - SOME HAS BUT SOME NOT. THIS NEEDS UPDATING TOO AND NEW PHOTOS FOR MOST

 

In our last blog, we explored the beaches from Whangapoua down to Whitianga — a mix of well-known favourites and hidden coastal gems. Now, we’re continuing the journey south, taking you from Whitianga to Pauanui.

You’ll notice we’ve started with Ferry Landing and Flaxmill Bay, even though some of the places in between might be closer by road. That’s because this guide flows naturally from the last one — if you’re already in Whitianga, hopping on the ferry is the quickest and most scenic way to start exploring. If you’re travelling entirely by car, you might re-order things slightly to avoid doubling back, but either way, these 10 stops cover all the drivable, house-dotted beaches and bays along this stretch of coastline.

1. Hikuai

Hikuai is a quiet rural settlement that feels like a crossroads to adventure. From here you can head east to Pauanui, north to Tairua, or south to Whangamatā - making it the gateway to some of the Coromandel’s best beaches. Inland, the road also leads you to Broken Hills, a historic gold-mining area with bush walks and a DOC campground nestled beside the Tairua River.

The village itself is small, with a gas station and the odd roadside stall, but the setting is what makes it memorable. From Hikuai you get sweeping views of the rugged Coromandel Ranges, including the dramatic Pinnacles rising in the distance. While Hikuai isn’t a destination in itself, it’s the kind of place that anchors you — a reminder that every great beach trip starts with a drive through this little gateway.

2. opotere

Opoutere is about as unspoiled as a surf beach gets. The long, sweeping sands are backed by dunes and pine forest, with the Wharekawa Harbour estuary at one end attracting birdlife. The tiny settlement has only a handful of holiday homes, so the vibe is pure peace and quiet. The Opoutere Coastal Camping ground is the main base here — a simple, back-to-nature campground tucked in the trees, popular with families and surfers. There are no shops or cafes, so most people come prepared, which only adds to the charm.

3. pokohino beach

Between Opoutere and Onemana lies Pokohino Beach, a wild and beautiful spot reached by a gravel road through forest. There are a few holiday homes and baches, but it feels far more remote than its neighbours. The beach is rugged and usually uncrowded, with good fishing and surf on the right days. There are no shops, and no formal campground, but it’s a favourite for those looking for a true “off-grid” beach experience.

4. onemana

Onemana is a hidden gem that many travellers bypass, but those who stop find a charming little beach village. The surf beach is backed by a grassy reserve and playground, making it family-friendly, while the waves attract surfers. The village has a small cluster of shops including a dairy and café, enough to keep you stocked up on essentials. Accommodation comes mostly in the form of holiday homes, though there’s also a campground tucked into the reserve at the north end, giving campers easy access to the beach.

5. Whangamatā

Whangamatā is one of the Coromandel’s biggest holiday hotspots, famous for its wide sandy beach, surf breaks, and lively town centre. The harbour and estuary are perfect for kayaking, boating, and paddleboarding, while the offshore islands (like Whenuakura, or Donut Island) are popular for day trips. The town itself has everything you could need — supermarkets, cafes, restaurants, surf shops, and a buzzing summer vibe. Accommodation options are endless: campgrounds, motels, luxury stays, and thousands of baches. The Whangamatā Motor Camp is a classic Kiwi favourite, set right by the beach and close to town.

6. wentworth valley

Just a short drive inland from Whangamatā is Wentworth Valley, where a DOC campground sits beside a clear mountain stream. It’s popular with families who want a more rustic, bush-based experience. From here, you can take the Wentworth Falls Track, which leads to a spectacular double waterfall. Facilities are basic — think grassy sites, cold water, and long-drops — but it’s a great option for campers who want to mix beach time in Whangamatā with forest adventures.

7. whiritoa

Whiritoa is a small settlement with a big surf beach and a relaxed, family holiday atmosphere. The surf can be powerful, but the lagoon at the northern end provides a safer swimming option for kids. There’s a dairy and café serving the community, plus a surf lifesaving club that keeps the beach safe in summer. Accommodation is mostly baches and holiday homes, with one campground in the village providing a traditional summer base. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows each other, and holidays revolve around the sand, surf, and evening BBQs.

8. waimama bay

Tucked down a quiet gravel road near Tairua, Sailors Graveis a sheltered bay fringed with pohutukawa trees. It’s named after the grave of a young sailor from the HMS Tortoise, who was buried here in 1842 — you can still visit the small fenced site in the reserve behind the beach.

The bay is popular for swimming, fishing, and launching small boats via the beach and when the surf is pumping it's a great spot to escape to. A short walk through native bush connects Sailors Grave with Otara Bay, offering another beautiful spot to explore. While there are no shops here, its peaceful setting makes it feel far removed from busier holiday towns.

Accommodation tip: stay at Tairua if you want to be near Sailors Grave

9. waihi beach

Waihi Beach is one of the largest beach towns in this part of the coast, stretching for nearly 10 kilometres of golden sand. At the North End, you’ll find a lively hub with shops, cafes, surf club, and the Waihi Beach Top 10 Holiday Resort, a family favourite with everything from campsites to luxury cabins. The South End is quieter and more residential, with a more laid-back vibe and access to the Orokawa Bay Track for walkers. Together, the two ends offer something for everyone — action and convenience up north, peace and nature down south.

10. bowentown

At the southern tip of Waihi Beach sits Bowentown, a relaxed seaside settlement that feels like a holiday village of its own. It’s perfectly positioned between the open surf beach on one side and the calm harbour waters on the other, making it a favourite with families. The Bowentown Beach Holiday Park is a standout, offering beachfront camping and cabins with direct access to both coastlines.

Bowentown is also dotted with smaller bays, each with its own character. Anzac Bay (Tangiteroria Bay) is sheltered and calm, with grassy reserves and picnic tables that make it perfect for young families. Shelly Bay has pebbles and shells scattered along the shoreline, while Cave Bay is more rugged, with rocky nooks to explore. Add in the surf club, playgrounds, boat ramp, and short walks around the headlands, and you’ve got a spot that really has it all.

There are no big supermarkets here, but the essentials are covered, and it’s only a short drive to the shops and cafes at Waihi Beach. With its variety of swimming spots, safe camping, and laid-back atmosphere, Bowentown is a place where holidays naturally slow down.

11. Athenree

Across the harbour from Bowentown lies Athenree, a peaceful settlement known for its hot springs and family-friendly holiday park. The estuary here is calm and ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding, and there’s a boat ramp for easy access. The Athenree Hot Springs & Holiday Park is a highlight, offering camping, cabins, and the chance to soak in mineral pools at the end of the day. There are a few local shops and eateries, but most visitors combine Athenree with trips across the harbour to Waihi Beach and Bowentown.

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