Hot Water Beach is one of the most interesting places on the island of Aotearoa in New Zealand. From the sound of the crashing waves to the amazing warmth of the hot sand under your bare feet at low tide, Hot Water Beach presents a landscape and atmosphere like nowhere else.
Popularized by a patch of thermal water bubbling just below the beach’s surface at low tide, Hot Water Beach has gained cult status as a world wonder right here on Coromandel. Visitors flock to the normally deserted Hot Water Beach two hours in advance in both directions at low tide. The temptation of the hot water attracts people in buses, campers, tour groups and rental cars. They pull into the newly expanded parking lot with a mixture of excitement, fascination, and anticipation on their faces.
At high tide, the beach looks just as you would expect – dramatic, undulating surf, a rocky shoreline framed by cliffs, a vast horizon with shadowy glimpses of islands in the distance. At low tide, the scene changes dramatically. Every day (and at night with a full moon), without exception, regardless of weather, holidays, season or circumstances, you will find a community of people gathered within a 20-meter radius. They will be diligently digging a small pool or diving into the results of their or someone else’s previous efforts. The water is hot – up to 64 degrees Celsius.
The main Pay and Display parking lot is located at the extreme southern end of Hot Water Beach. It has restrooms, including a cold outdoor shower. This is a 24-hour parking lot for which an additional fee is charged. Adventure awaits just beyond the shallow creek, which must be crossed with pants rolled up, towels and shovels in hand to reach Hot Rock about 200 meters along the beach.
A larger parking lot further along the road offers overflow paid parking and restrooms, as well as a nice walk along the “Pa Track” near the stream if you prefer not to walk through the water.
The tide will determine when you visit Hot Water Beach. But how long you stay is up to you.
Hot Water Beach is a place loved by brave adventurers and sightseers. It offers a little work, a little play, and a lot of relaxation in an environment that is both social and lonely.
On a cold Coromandel day – or a rainy one – a trip to Hot Water Beach is unbeatable.
This section of surf is dangerous, with dangerous breaks that challenge even the strongest swimmers. Caution is advised. Paddle carefully even when swimming in knee-deep water at Hot Water Beach. Volunteer lifeguards patrol the beach every weekend from Labor Day weekend to Easter in the summer. Regional guards patrol the beach from December to February.