If you’re visiting the Coromandel Peninsula, chances are Cathedral Cove is already on your list. It’s known for having some of the most beautiful ocean water in the country, and the spot itself is absolutely stunning.

To get to Cathedral Cove and the surrounding beaches, you’ll need to follow the Cathedral Cove Walkway, which has only recently reopened after being closed for years due to landslides caused by extreme weather. The trail starts at the Grange Road car park and is 4.18 km in total, so a nice 2 km walk each way. There are a few ups and downs, but overall, it’s a manageable walk for all fitness levels.

The coastal views along the way are incredible, with dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and plenty of ocean panoramas. But of course, the real highlight is reaching Cathedral Cove itself, a breathtaking beach framed by towering cliffs and the iconic rock archway. On your visit, snap a photo standing under the cove, it’s about as classic New Zealand as it gets.