8 daysChennai
8 days Motorcycle tour from Chennai to Coromandel Coast on Royal Enfield
5.0(1)Free cancellation
from$1,472
Photo: Rabenlust, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsCathedral Cove
The North Island
Cathedral Cove, or Mautohe, is a giant arch carved through a headland, joining two white sand beaches in a marine reserve on the Coromandel Peninsula. Storm damage in 2023 closed the tracks for a long time; the main track has since reopened.
How to visit
- Walk: The main track has reopened; follow the Department of Conservation's signs, as some side tracks remain closed.
- Boat: Glass bottom boat and water taxi trips from Hahei and Whitianga.
- Kayak: Guided kayak trips through the marine reserve.
- Hot Water Beach: Dig your own hot pool in the sand around low tide, 15 minutes away.
Tip: Visit early or late in the day in summer; the car parks and the cove fill up by late morning.
Getting there
- From Auckland: About 2.5 to 3 hours to Hahei.
- Shuttle: A park and ride shuttle runs from Hahei in summer.
- Boat trips: Leave from Hahei beach and Whitianga.
When to go
December to March for swimming and boat trips, though it's busiest over the summer holidays. Spring and autumn are quieter and still pleasant for walking.
Where it is
Multi-day tours that visit Cathedral Cove
Every tour here includes Cathedral Cove in its itinerary. Best rated first.
8 days
2 daysCombine it with
Rather have a trip to New Zealand made just for you?
Answer a few quick questions and a local specialist will send you a free, no-obligation itinerary and price.
Cathedral Cove: questions
How long is the walk to Cathedral Cove?
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours return from the Hahei end on the main track, more with time on the beach.
Is Cathedral Cove open?
The main walking track has reopened. The Hahei Short Walk and Gemstone Bay track remain closed; check DOC before you go.