Take a Hike to Visit Cathedral Cove New Zealand

If during your travel to New Zealand you ask for directions to Cathedral Cove, local Kiwis are likely to tell you to “take a hike,” because that’s the only way to reach this idyllic Coromandel bay beach cove by land for fishing, swimming, and boating pleasure.

A walking track from Hahei Beach leads to nature’s sculpture of white sands and arches in a gigantic arched cavern jutting past the headland linking Mare’s Leg Cove to Cathedral Cove New Zealand. It’s also possible to reach it by walking from the car park located between Hahei and Gemstone Bay.

The cavern itself lends a feeling of grandeur to the sandy beach area decorated with pahutukawa trees. “Te Hoho,” the huge wind and water carved pumice majestically standing slightly offshore is an impressive spectacle to behold against warm Pacific blue waters.

Besides hiking to the area, your New Zealand outdoor activities here may include a guided kayaking trip for a different tour perspective. A boat is the only other alternative for arriving at this point of tourism interest. Guided dive trips explore marine life at reefs, intricate caves, and arches.

Cathedral Cove Sea Kayaking leads half and full day tours to discover the best of marine reserve features. This bay cove is especially conducive to kayak exploration of magnificent coastline, caves, blowholes, and islands that other boats cannot reach. When conditions and tides permit, these tours paddle through spectacular volcanic remains that other travelers seldom see.

The area is part of Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, established in 1992 to protect marine habitats of the outer islands. As such, tour operators conduct visits to great dive and snorkel spots, where snapper, crayfish, and other abundant fish and crustaceans can be viewed.

Area accommodation includes wide choices in Hahei, Whitianga, and other Coromandel locations. Notable is Walnut Cottage, a self-contained 3 bedroom furnished farmstay that sleeps 6 that is located on a macadamia orchard inland from the cove, between Hahei Beach and Cooks Beach. Besides macadamia, fruits and exotic tree growing, the farm features turkeys, peacocks, quail, pheasants, hawks and other bird life.

Cathedral Cove is listed on AA Travel’s (New Zealand Automobile Association) list of “101 Must-Do’s for Kiwis” for exceptional coastal splendor. The massive arched natural rock is a centerpiece of spectacular scenery on the Coromandel coast, with incredible clifftop views. Don’t miss it on your New Zealand vacation!