Coromandel Peninsula: Visit a Unique Hot Spring in New Zealand
If you’re a hot spring enthusiast, a trip to Hot Water Beach on New Zealand‘s Coromandel Peninsula is an absolute must. Hot Water Beach is home to one of the most unique hot springs in the world. During a two-hour window, between high and low tide, visitors can dig a hole on the beach and create their very own private thermal pool, thanks to hot water that bubbles up from deep inside the earth.
Photo by depositphotos.com
The water at Hot Water Beach can reach temperatures as high as 147 degrees Fahrenheit. Most visitors mix the hot thermal water with the cooler Pacific Ocean water to achieve their ideal temperature. The thundering waves at Hot Water Beach offer great surfing opportunities, but be aware of the treacherous rip tides. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and only dig thermal pools in spots marked by flags and signs as safe.
Photo by depositphotos.com
Visitors can bring their own shovels to dig a thermal pool or rent one from a nearby surf shop. Many health enthusiasts believe the combination of thermal water and salty sea water offers numerous health benefits. Hot Water Beach is considered an open-air spa that does wonders for one’s skin, lungs, and overall well-being. Spending a few hours basking in a self-excavated thermal pool at Hot Water Beach is even more rejuvenating than the priciest spa treatment.
A stunning rock formation known as Cathedral Cove is located a short distance from Hot Water Beach. Cathedral Cove features a towering arch that resembles the ceiling of a stately cathedral. Cathedral Cove has become increasingly popular since it was featured in the 2008 film ‘The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian‘.
Photo by depositphotos.com
The best way to experience Cathedral Cove is by kayak or boat, as pedestrian access is currently limited due to recent severe weather. Several local companies offer guided tours that allow visitors to kayak or cruise near the majestic entrance of Cathedral Cove.
New Zealand‘s Coromandel Peninsula is celebrated for its unique landscapes and striking beauty. Hot Water Beach is one of the peninsula’s most curious and captivating attractions. There are very few places on Earth where you can soak in a hot spring and enjoy the ocean in a single visit. Hot Water Beach offers nature’s ultimate spa treatment.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Hot Water Beach, southern geothermal hot-pool area near Pye Place, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand
- Coordinates
- -36.88548, 175.82224
- Access
- Public beach access. The geothermal pool area is near the southern end; allow about a 200 m walk from the main car park, crossing a shallow stream. Hot pools are exposed around low tide. Strong surf rips occur; swim only between lifeguard flags and follow local safety notices.
- Admission
- No separate beach admission fee is listed. Parking is paid: the Thames-Coromandel District Council 2026/27 schedule lists the Main Car Park at NZ$6/hour or NZ$35/day and Taiwawe at NZ$4/hour or NZ$25/day. Spade hire is extra; confirm posted prices.
- Time needed
- Flexible. Visit around low tide, generally within about two hours either side. Allow time for the walk and tide timing; no official total visit duration is published.
- Best season
- The local community site says the natural pools are available year-round. No best season is designated; tide and weather matter more. Lifeguard patrols are seasonal, so check local safety notices before swimming.
- Opening hours
- The beach is an outdoor public place; no fixed beach hours are published. Hot-pool access depends on the low tide, generally within about two hours either side. Destination Coromandel describes the main car park as open 24 hours; parking fees apply. Check tide times and local safety notices.
- Location checked
- 2026-10-14
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-14
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