Hot Water Beach is one of New Zealand's most famous natural quirks. Two underground fissures release geothermal water, heated deep within the earth, that bubbles up just beneath the sand, so for about two hours either side of low tide you can dig your own private spa pool and soak in the warm water with the Pacific surf rolling in beside you.
It has become a rite of passage for visitors to the country, and on a good low tide you will find a friendly scene of people scooping out pools with hired spades. The beach sits on the eastern Coromandel Peninsula, close to other classics like Cathedral Cove, so it works well as the centrepiece of a wider Coromandel day out.
This is the one trip on this list that is a genuine day trip rather than a quick outing: allow around 1.5 to 2 hours of driving each way from Coastal Cottage, heading north from Tauranga on State Highway 2 and over the Coromandel ranges. The drive itself, through coast and bush, is part of the adventure.
Highlights
Dig-your-own hot pool
Grab a spade, find the warm patch in the sand and scoop out your own natural spa at low tide.
Coromandel scenery
The drive over and the coastline around the beach are some of the most beautiful in the country.
Nearby Cathedral Cove
The iconic sea arch is a short distance away, well worth adding to the day if tracks are open.
Tips for your visit
- Check the low-tide time before you leave, the hot water is only accessible around low tide.
- Hire or bring a spade, and wear jandals, the sand over the hot spots can get very hot.
- Go on a shoulder-season day to avoid the peak-summer crowds.
Getting there from the cottage
Around 1.5 hours' drive on the Coromandel Peninsula, best planned as a full day out.
Best time to visit
Plan your visit entirely around low tide. Spring and autumn are quieter than mid-summer.