Exploring Opito Bay's Tranquil Beach
Opito Bay, located on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, north of Whitianga and Mercury Bay. The bay is a secluded holiday spot known for its stunning beach. This remote community lacks commercial amenities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. The beach stretches for 6 km, providing ample space to relax, even during busy holiday seasons. The surf is generally mild, making swimming relatively safe.
At the southeastern end of the beach, you can take a short walk to narrow Opito Point, 60 meters above the surf. There is a historic pā site and views of the Mercury Islands.
An Interesting Māori Heritage
Opito Bay has an interesting Māori heritage. The area was occupied very early, as evidenced by sand-dune middens and shell-heaps near the bay. These date back to the 1300s to 1500s. During this time, Ōpito Bay was also a source of basalt, extracted from the Tahanga Quarries. This hard volcanic stone was used to craft adzes and other tools, which were traded throughout the upper North Island. The Tahanga Quarries are situated on the summit and flanks of 211 metre high Tahanga, to the south of the east end of the bay. You can also spot flows of this basalt rock across the beach.
How to Get to Opito Bay
To reach Opito Bay, start by turning off State Highway 25 onto Black Jack Road at Kuaotunu. Continue driving over Black Jack, pass Otama Beach, and follow the unsealed section of the road to its end.
Other options on the northeast coast of the peninsula include Matarangi, Whangapoua and New Chums Beach.
