Cathedral Cove & Coromandel Peninsula Small-Group Day Tours
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the Coromandel Peninsula your way with two unique small-group tours.
Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach Tour – Operates only when tide times allow, giving you the chance to dig your own spa at the world-famous Hot Water Beach (bring a towel & swimwear!).
Coastal Adventure Tour – Runs on alternate days, following the same stunning coastal journey and highlights—including Cathedral Cove—without Hot Water Beach.
Tours operate daily, with itineraries based on tidal conditions. If your preferred tour is unavailable, check the alternate option— both tours include Mautohe Cathedral Cove, one of the world’s Top 50 Beaches!
Whichever option you choose, enjoy breathtaking scenery, secret stops, and the Cheeky Kiwi Travel difference: small groups, passionate guides, wildlife encounters, and thoughtful little touches that make our tours unforgettable.
Access to Cathedral Cove is weather-dependent; alternative stops may be arranged in poor conditions.
Available options
Coromandel Coastal Adventure
Pickup included
Coromandel inc Hot Water Beach
Hot Water Beach : Only dates where Hot Water Beach aligns with tide times will include a visit to this location <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Spades for Hot Water Beach (if booked Hot Water Beach option)
Intimate fully-guided tour
Water available & snacks provided
Detailed itinerary
1
Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the city’s top highlights.
2
Exiting Auckland we travel south through the stunning Waikato countryside, the most extensive farming area in the world, encountering beautiful scenery, mighty rivers, great photo opportunities, impressive mountains and several farm animals along the way.
3
The exact itinerary is based on tidal conditions. Only tours where Hot Water Beach aligns with tide times will include a visit here, and if you're booked on our Coastal Adventure tour, you'll instead visit other key Coromandel Peninsula Highlights!
4
Time for lunch to refuel! We'll stop in Hahei where you can purchase something tasty, before we continue our adventure.
5
Stop 5
Visit Cathedral Cove, one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural landmarks. The walk to Cathedral Cove takes between 30 - 45 minutes, but the reward is well worth it—stunning coastal views and the opportunity to explore this breathtaking beach. Acess to Cathedral Cove is weather-dependent. For safety reasons, the track may be unsuitable after or during heavy rain. In such cases, alternative arrangements will be made to ensure you still have an incredible experience.
6
Sadly after this day in paradise we must start to head north again but your day is not over with a fully guided return trip to Auckland including secret stops along the way.
What's not included
Lunch (opportunities to purchase at own expense)
Towels & Swim wear
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
55 reviews
5★
40
4★
9
3★
3
2★
3
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
151 reviews
5★
139
4★
8
3★
1
2★
1
1★
2
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
To ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience, we kindly ask that you consider your fitness and mobility before joining our tours. This helps maintain a smooth pace for the group and ensures a positive experience for all.
Guests must wear reliable, closed-in footwear suitable for walking on various terrains.
For safety reasons, the track may be unsuitable after or during heavy rain. In such cases, alternative arrangements will be made
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can provide your own or one can be provided for $20 NZD (with 24 hours notice).
Hot water beach is not always available due to the tide not being compatible with visiting this location for safety reasons.
Bring some clothes you can swim in and a towel
Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, a large amount of walking over uneven surfaces is involved.
Guests must have a high level of fitness and be capable of completing the challenging 40-minute walk to and from Cathedral Cove.
Important notes
• Pick-ups start 20 mins before the tour time. Please check your pickup time to ensure you do not miss your pickup. We are unable to wait for late guests. No refunds given for no show passengers.
• You will be picked up in a minibus with Cheeky Kiwi Travel signwriting on it.
About Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula is a stunning region in New Zealand's North Island, known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic coastal landscapes. It offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, making it a favorite among travelers.
Top Attractions
Hot Water Beach
Hot Water Beach is famous for its natural hot springs that bubble up through the sand. Visitors can dig their own hot pools in the sand during low tide.
Beach
1-2 hours
Free (spade rental available for a fee)
Cathedral Cove
Cathedral Cove is a stunning coastal formation with a natural arch and beautiful beaches. It's a popular spot for hiking, swimming, and photography.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
The Pinnacles
The Pinnacles are a series of granite peaks in the Coromandel Forest Park. The hike to the summit offers breathtaking views and a challenging adventure.
Adventure
4-5 hours
Free (parking fee may apply)
Kuaotunu Beach
Kuaotunu Beach is a beautiful, secluded beach with golden sand and clear waters. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Beach
1-2 hours
Free
Coromandel Town
Coromandel Town is a charming historic town with a rich gold mining heritage. It offers a glimpse into the region's past with its historic buildings and museums.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free (museums may have entry fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fresh Seafood Platter
A platter featuring a variety of fresh seafood such as oysters, mussels, fish, and prawns, often served with local wines and sauces.
Dinner
Contains seafood, may contain allergens
Kumara Fries
Sweet potato fries, often served with a variety of dips and sauces. A popular local snack.
Snack
Vegetarian, may contain gluten
Hangi
A traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven, featuring meats and vegetables cooked with steam and hot stones.
Dinner
May contain meat, vegetarian options available
Artisanal Cheese Board
A selection of locally made cheeses, often paired with fruits, nuts, and local wines.
Appetizer
Vegetarian, may contain dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Scuba diving
Snorkeling
Mountain biking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Picnicking
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and ideal conditions for beach activities and outdoor adventures. Expect crowded beaches and popular attractions.
20-25°C
68-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
The Coromandel is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
- • Only use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
Getting there
By air
- Auckland Airport • 160 km from Coromandel
By bus
Auckland Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses connect major towns and tourist destinations, but schedules can be infrequent. Plan ahead and check timelines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi services
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Whitianga
Coromandel Town
Thames
Hahei
Kuaotunu
Day trips
Cathedral Cove
20 km from Whitianga • Half day to full day
Cathedral Cove is a stunning coastal formation with a natural arch and beautiful beaches. It's a popular spot for hiking, swimming, and photography.
The Pinnacles
30 km from Thames • Full day
The Pinnacles are a series of granite peaks in the Coromandel Forest Park. The hike to the summit offers breathtaking views and a challenging adventure.
Hot Water Beach
15 km from Whitianga • Half day
Hot Water Beach is famous for its natural hot springs that bubble up through the sand. Visitors can dig their own hot pools in the sand during low tide.
Festivals
Coromandel Arts Festival • Annual, typically in November
Whitianga Scallop Festival • Annual, typically in March
Coromandel Oyster and Wine Festival • Annual, typically in February
Pro tips
- Visit Hot Water Beach during low tide to dig your own hot pool in the sand.
- Hike to Cathedral Cove early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the stunning scenery.
- Explore the Coromandel's rich history by visiting its museums, historic sites, and gold mining towns.
- Sample the region's famous seafood, including oysters, fish, and scallops, at local restaurants and markets.
- Attend a traditional Māori hangi for a unique and authentic cultural experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
