Things to do in Whitianga

Activities, attractions and tours

Cathedral Cove Beach featuring general coastal views, caves and a sunset
Cathedral Cove Beach featuring general coastal views, caves and a sunset
Cathedral Cove Beach showing a sunset, rocky coastline and general coastal views
Shakespeare Cliff Lookout which includes rocky coastline, a bay or harbour and mountains
Hot Water Beach showing a sandy beach and a bay or harbour
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Top places to visit

1. Hahei Beach

Situated on the majestic Mercury Bay, the tiny settlement of Hahei Beach becomes a bustling tourist town in the summer months. Its 350 permanent residents will welcome you to their town, ready to show you their beautiful pink-shell beach, the protected marine reserve and the pods of dolphins that live off shore. Enjoy a round of golf, browse for souvenirs at local gift shops and enjoy a pint at a local craft brewery as you indulge in the offerings of the Coromandel Peninsula.
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Hahei Beach which includes a bay or harbour, a sunset and a beach

2. Cathedral Cove

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.
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Cathedral Cove Beach

3. Hot Water Beach

Grab your bucket and spade and head to Hot Water Beach at low tide to find two natural warm water springs. Dig a pool and mix the hot water with just the right amount of seawater to create your perfect bath. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along this beautiful stretch of sand and find a quiet place to rest with a good book. Enjoy a meal in the oceanfront café and shop for souvenirs in the shops behind the beach.
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Hot Water Beach which includes rugged coastline, general coastal views and a beach

4. Cooks Beach

Relax on the white sands of Cooks Beach, hike over the headlands to the secluded Lonely Bay, cast a line or take a game fishing trip.
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Cooks Beach

5. Driving Creek Railway

Take a journey on the Driving Creek Railway to zig-zag up a hill through the bushland on the Coromandel Peninsula in a fun and original way. This narrow gauge railway was originally built to supply wood and clay to the adjoining potteries, but it now mainly serves to take tourists on scenic rides.
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Driving Creek Railway showing forest scenes and railway items

What to do in Whitianga

Popular places to visit

Lost Spring Thermal Pools

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lost Spring Thermal Pools during your travels in Whitianga. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.

Lost Spring Thermal Pools

Mercury Bay Museum

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Mercury Bay Museum in Whitianga. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.

Mercury Bay Museum

Mercury Bay Golf & Country Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Whitianga at Mercury Bay Golf & Country Club. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.

Mercury Bay Golf & Country Club

Frequently asked questions

Is Whitianga worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor pursuits, there are loads of great things to do in Whitianga. Don't forget to enjoy the area's mix of unmissable attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Whitianga?
Buffalo Beach and Matarangi Beach are two excellent places to begin your adventures. Remember to explore the shopping and dining options in Whitianga while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Whitianga?
You can't leave without visiting Buffalo Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Whitianga.
Is three days enough to stay in Whitianga?
You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Buffalo Beach, Purangi Estate-The Purangi Winery and Flaxmill Bay Beach with a three-day escape to Whitianga. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stick around longer and venture to Hahei.
Is Whitianga a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Whitianga is a good place to discover on foot. Have fun wandering between Buffalo Beach and Flaxmill Bay Beach. Then take a stroll through Ferry Landing, located 2 kilometres from downtown, and Simpsons Beach, which is roughly 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Whitianga with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Whitianga with kids.

What to do in Whitianga for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or thrill seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Whitianga for adults including Purangi Estate-The Purangi Winery and Mercury Bay Estate.
Are there free things to do in Whitianga?
One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Whitianga is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without reaching into your pocket. Buffalo Beach is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.