Hahei in the Coromandel is bigger than nearby Hot Water Beach, with several restaurants and cafes while retaining a distinctly holiday/beachy vibe. It is also one of the safest beaches on the east coast, well sheltered by offshore islands. If you want to take a boat tour around the coastal marine sanctuary and islands, including Cathedral Cove, this is a good place to start.
There is commercial camping near the beach, plus other accommodation options. It is also the gateway for the 40 to 60-minute walk to Cathedral Cove at the north end of the beach. At the southern end, there is a short walk to spectacular pā sites on the Hereheretaura Point clifftop.
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