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Your guide to the stunning coromandel coastline - part 1:

Whangapoua to Whitianga

If you're dreaming about summer and wondering where to go for your next getaway - I'm here to show you why a Coromandel summer is the way to go.  In particular this is the stretch of coastline you need to know about. From the peaceful sands of Whangapoua to the laid-back bustle of Whitianga, this scenic drive along the northeastern coast offers some of the best hidden gems in Aotearoa, NZ. This blog is your road trip guide to the beach towns and bays between Whangapoua and Whitianga. Whether you're a return visitor or discovering it for the first time, these are the spots worth stopping for.

1. whangapoua

A relaxed, family-friendly beach settlement with that old-school Kiwi summer feeling. Whangapoua is best known as the access point to New Chums Beach (Wainuiototo) - a must-do walk for those after untouched beauty. But even without the walk, Whangapoua is absolutely worth a stop. The beach is safe for swimming, the estuary is perfect for paddleboarding, and the vibe is peaceful and nostalgic. Don’t miss the Opera Point walk, a gentle track through native bush with beautiful coastal views back towards the harbour. There are also some handy local shops, including a general store and takeaways - ideal for a beach lunch or stocking up before you head further.

Accommodation tip: There's a classic kiwi camping ground, classic baches, a few Airbnbs, and lots of family holiday homes. It fills up early over summer, so book ahead.

2. new chums, Wainuiototo

You can't drive here - and that's part of the magic. From Whangapoua, it's a 30-minute walk over rocks and through beautiful native bush. But once you're there: pinky white squeaky sand, turquoise water, no houses, no roads, no signs - just you and the moment.  It's a popular beach but there's enough room for everyone.  Shade along the edges, some cool rocks and beautiful waves.  Boats often park up offshore for the day or night. Consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches, this is a true Coromandel treasure

3. matarangi

A purpose-built beach town with a broad golden beach, surf-friendly waves, and a laid-back vibe. Matarangi is great for families or anyone who wants that "everything in walking distance" feel. There’s a golf course, a small shopping area, a boat ramp, and all-day sun. The local shops include a Four Square for groceries, a liquor store, a general store, and a cafe for your morning coffee or an ice cream on the way back from the beach.

Accommodation tip: Holiday homes are plentiful here.

Matarangi gear

4. rings beach

Tucked between Matarangi and Kuaotunu, Rings Beach is peaceful and usually quiet, even in summer. It’s a favourite for morning walks, shell collecting, and soaking up the sunrise. The Rings Beach Loop Track winds through regenerating forest, with ocean views, native bush, and birdlife along the way — it’s a great way to stretch the legs and take in the beauty of this coast.

This area used to be accessible via a coastal road between Matarangi and Kuaotunu, but due to a rockfall on the cliffs, the road is now permanently closed. However, you can still walk between Kuaotunu and Matarangi via Rings Beach, making it a scenic detour on foot.

Rings is also a local favourite for fishing off the rocks, and when the swell and tide align, it delivers surprisingly good surf.

Accommodation tip: Fewer options here, but nearby Matarangi or Kuaotunu are close by.

5. Kūaotunu

Quirky, charming, and effortlessly cool -Kūaotunu is a north-facing beach that somehow gives you both sunrise and sunset over the water. It’s a small place with a big heart: woodfired pizzas at Luke’s Kitchen (so good that people travel from neighbouring towns just for a meal), epic coffee from Kua Kawhe, and warm community vibes all year round. The Kūaotunu General Store is home to the legendary "Kūaotunu Killer" — a towering ice cream cone that’s become something of a rite of passage for summer visitors.

There’s also a classic Kiwi campground tucked just back from the beach, where generations of families return each year. The beach itself is perfect for swimming, and there are gentle walks and coastal views in every direction.

Accommodation tip: From rustic baches to boutique holiday homes and the campground, Kūaotunu has a growing number of unique stays.

Read more on Kūaotunu
Kūaotunu gear

6. otama

Winding over the hill from Kūaotunu, Otama is what people mean when they say "hidden gem." On the way to the more popular Opito Bay, it’s often overlooked - but that just adds to its charm. Long, white, and barely developed, Otama feels like your own private slice of paradise. The water is crystal-clear, the headlands are dramatic, and the sense of space is unmatched. The dunes are home to rare native birds, adding a sense of natural wonder.

There are no shops here, which keeps the beach blissfully quiet - so bring what you need and enjoy the solitude.

Accommodation tip: A handful of architecturally designed holiday homes are available, but they book quickly. A good spot if you want total peace

Otama gear

7. Opito bay

At the end of the road past Otama, Opito is calm, safe, and endlessly photogenic. Families have holidayed here for generations. There’s also a stunning walk to the old pā site at the southern end for panoramic views. If you're up for more adventure, you can walk over the headland to Crayfish Bay - a tucked-away spot with beautiful views and great snorkelling when the tide is right.

Accommodation tip: Bach culture rules here. It’s BYO everything, so come prepared and settle in.

Opito gear

8. matapaua bay

A detour from the Opito Bay road leads to this lesser-known beach. Matapaua Bay is a picturesque, secluded cove with minimal parking and no shops, giving it a bit of a secret spot vibe. It’s known for great diving and fishing, and the calm waters are perfect for a peaceful dip. There’s also a short and scenic walk to Sandy Bay, adding another reason to make the turnoff.

Accommodation tip: Very limited holiday homes here - it’s more of a day trip destination.

9. Simpsons Beach, Wharekaho

Just before you reach Whitianga, this small bay is often overlooked - and that’s exactly why it’s so peaceful. The beach is great for a quiet swim or picnic, and there’s a playground that’s perfect for little ones. It has a unique mix of black and golden sand which is really cool! It’s only a few minutes’ drive to the cafes and shops of Whitianga.

Accommodation tip: A few beachfront homes and holiday rentals - perfect if you want proximity to town but not the noise.

10. whitianga

The biggest town on this stretch, and your go-to for supplies, restaurants, boat tours, beachside buzz and even a bike park. Take the ferry to Ferry Landing, hop on a boat to Cathedral Cove, or just enjoy fish and chips by the water. Whitianga makes a great base, especially for families or first-timers to the Coromandel. There are supermarkets, surf shops, a medical centre, and even a retirement village - everything you’d need for a longer stay or last-minute supplies.

Accommodation tip: Everything from campgrounds to apartments to boutique motels. Book ahead in peak season.

Whitianga gear

ready to go?

This stretch of coastline is made for exploring. It’s where long, lazy beach days meet bush walks, stargazing, and local flavour. Whether you base yourself in Kuaotunu or hop between spots, you’ll find your own kind of magic here.

If you’ve been thinking about booking a Coromandel summer - this is your sign - do it!

Follow along for more in-depth guides to each of these places in the coming weeks. And if you’re a local - I hope I’ve done your place justice. Got something you think I should include next time? Let me know.

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Take a look at the gear we have from this stunning part of the world.

Great gift to take the beach home with you - without the mess of sand!

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