auckland.kiwi Logo

Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach Small-Group Tour From Auckland

Offered by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

From

$259.00 per person

4.8 (298 reviews)

Instant Confirmation

Check Availability

Booking handled by our partner, Viator

12 hours (approx.)Pickup Available Mobile or paper ticket accepted Offered in: English

Explore the Coromandel on a small-group day tour from Auckland with Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach (tide-dependent), stunning coastal scenery and secret stops.

Tour Overview

Leave Auckland behind and delve into the heart of the North Island as you journey towards the Coromandel Peninsula. This tour offers a deep dive into the region's lush landscapes and cultural highlights, starting with a scenic drive through the expansive Waikato countryside, known for its rolling fields and pastoral beauty.

One of the first major stops is Hot Water Beach, an extraordinary natural phenomenon where visitors can dig into the sandy shores to uncover hot springs bubbling just beneath the surface. Here, the Pacific Ocean gently moderates the temperature, creating a unique spa experience right on the beach. Remember to bring a towel and some swimwear for this part of the adventure.

As we continue, the tour takes you to Cathedral Cove, accessible by a 30 to 45-minute walk. This iconic natural archway offers breathtaking views of the coastline and serves as a gateway to one of the country's most beautiful beaches. The path to Cathedral Cove is nestled within native bush, providing a refreshing trek with panoramic views of the ocean.

Throughout the journey, stops at several viewpoints allow you to soak in the vast, untouched beauty of the peninsula, with its white sand beaches and dense native forests. The drive itself, coupled with our knowledgeable guide, ensures a rich and engaging experience, highlighting both the natural and cultural significance of the area.

As the day winds down, the return trip to Auckland includes a few secret stops, adding an element of surprise and delight to your adventure. Each element of the tour is carefully planned to ensure a fulfilling and memorable day in one of New Zealand's most cherished regions.

What's Included

  • Hot water Beach is tide dependent - only "Cathedral Cove Hot Water Beach" visits Hot Water Beach
  • Spades for Hot Water Beach (if booked Hot Water Beach option)
  • Fully guided small group tour
  • Water available & snacks provided

Not Included:

  • Lunch (opportunities to purchase at own expense)
  • Towels & Swim wear

What To Expect

  1. 1

    Auckland Central

    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.

    Pass by without stopping

  2. 2

    Waikato Region

    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.

    Pass by without stopping

  3. 3

    Coromandel Peninsula

    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!

    2 hours

  4. 4

    Hahei

    Time for lunch to refuel! We'll stop in Hahei where you can purchase something tasty, before we continue our adventure.

    1 hour

  5. 5

    Cathedral Cove Walk

    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.

    2 hours

    Admission: Included

  6. 6

    Auckland

    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.

    Pass by without stopping

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup available

Please select your preferred pickup location when booking through Viator.

Pickup details

*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point (SkyCity Hotel). You are welcome to update this at any time. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there. *Pick-ups can begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 5 minutes prior to your specific pickup time. ...

Important Information

• Hot water Beach is tide dependent - only "Cathedral Cove Hot Water Beach" visits Hot Water Beach • You will receive an email with important pickup information in the days prior, please read this information.

Additional Info

  • 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
  • A high level of fitness and good mobility is required, including a challenging 40-minute walk to and from Cathedral Cove over uneven terrain and stairs. Not suitable for guests with mobility difficulties.
  • Hot Water Beach access is tide-dependent and may not always be possible for safety reasons.
  • Tracks may be unsafe during or after heavy rain; alternative arrangements will be made if required.
  • Bring swimwear and a towel if you wish to swim. Closed-in, sturdy footwear is mandatory.
  • Children aged 7 and under must use a child safety seat. You may bring your own or hire one for NZ$20 with 24 hours’ notice.
  • 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.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.