Things to do in Whangamata

1. Cathedral Cove Boat Tour

This is the perfect activity to bring your family on any sunny day. Along our gorgeous volcanic coastline, join us as we explore Cathedral Cove, the marine reserve, and offshore islands.

In one hour, you'll see all of the attractions, including the lonely shore with its beautiful sea caves and, if the tide is perfect, a visit to the hidden subterranean blowhole. Because the boat is smack in the middle of the natural surroundings, marine life is all around and may be seen up close. Observe gannets diving into the water.

2. Whangamata Beach

Whangamata is known for its white sand beach, which stretches for 6 kilometres. At the local surf school on Esplanade Drive, you may rent a board or take lessons. During the summer, the Whangamata Surf Life Saving Club provides surf patrol. Beach time may also be enjoyed by swimming or taking long walks on the beach, enjoying a local ice cream!

3. Wentworth Falls

Explore the Wentworth Valley via the Wentworth Falls Track for an inland adventure. Along the Wentworth River, use an easy slope course. Before rising to an incredible vista of Wentworth Falls, there are two bridge crossings. The falls are divided into two sections, each measuring around 20 meters. The path climbs higher till it reaches a basin at the top of the falls. In the Wentworth Valley, there is also a campsite. These falls are an amazing place to relax and spend a day with loved ones.

4. Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary

This hollow island off the coast of Whangamata Beach is known as "Donut Island" by locals. It is only accessible by a 12m high cave! Join a local tour operator for a guided kayak or Paddleboard excursion around the island's heart, which has towering cliffs and a crystal blue lagoon.

5. The Town’s Shops and Cafes

Whangamata has some of the greatest shopping in the region, with boutiques and specialty surf stores being particularly popular. There is also a distinct coffee culture in this little town, with roughly ten different cafés to s-e-l-e-c-t from. Take some time to browse around and try some of the local delicacies.

6. Opoutere Beach and Coastal Bird Reserve

Opoutere Beach, just a short drive from Whangamata, is a fantastic trip for nature enthusiasts. Opoutere Beach is a protected nesting place for uncommon species such as the New Zealand dotterel and is located at the southern end of Wharekawa Harbour. To view this region for yourself, take a 45-minute walk along a boardwalk. Before the walk changes into a boardwalk across a sandspit, cross a wooden footbridge that leads into a pine tree forest.

7. Stargazing Tours

The Coromandel has beautiful, crisp, clear skies around every corner, perfect for gazing upon the Milky Way.

Using a research-quality telescope in a revolving dome, explore the southern night sky treasures of the Milky Way, Moon, and planets from this stargazing tour's pristine dark sky site. Handle meteorites that are older than the Earth, sit inside a massive sundial, and go through our scale model solar system. A fun activity for the whole family.

8. Whiritoa Beach

Take your camera, leave your shoes at home, and head south of Whangamata to Whiritoa Beach. The coastal landscape and hidden beach, which is surrounded by Pohutukawa trees, make for an ideal filming location.

Photographers and painters who prefer to capture life as it should be enjoyed it as well. The quiet Waimama Bay, with white sand, crystal clear waters, and a canopy of Pohutukawa trees, is a 15-minute walk away. Whiritoa and Waimama, a favorite place for beach picnics and romance, will have you falling in love with The Coromandel. The steep slope offers a good beach break for experienced surfers looking for short rides, as well as a meandering sandbar for those looking for something different. During the summer, Surf Life Saving New Zealand patrols the beach. Swim between the flags at all times.