Cathedral Cove

If there's any single spot that serves as the perfect icon of the Coromandel region as a whole, it's undoubtedly the golden, rocky and spectacular Cathedral Cove - otherwise known as Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve. With an internationally famous, naturally formed stone archway that opens out into a wondrous beach environment, it's a location that looks akin to something out of a magazine shoot. This is easily one of the most picturesque spots in the Coromandel and possibly even New Zealand as a whole, as it embodies NZ's coastal and beachside in contrast to its typical alpine nature in full. If there was one word to best sum up Cathedral Cove, “secluded” might be it; despite its popularity it still conveys a feeling of isolation and escapism that is hard to match anywhere else in the country. Reaching the cove requires a fair walk – expect to spend about 45 minutes return without rushing - from its nearest carpark, however upon first viewing the iconic archway any effort put in will immediately be seen as more than worth it. With a scenic walk to undertake, pristine beach, incredible marine life and inspiring rock formations, if you've ever wanted to walk into a scene from a postcard, Cathedral Cove is your go-to destination of choice in the Coromandel region.