Local Guide

Hot Pools

The hot pools are located below the tideline and are accessible for two hours either side of low tide on most days. Take a 200m walk north from either the village, stream carpark, or south from the middle carpark and look for the rocks.

The springs are fairly concentrated, so if you dig a little and can’t find the heat, move closer and look for the flowing water on the sand.

Getting there early is well worth it, and you might get to see the spring water bubbling up out of the untouched sand.

Aerial view of Hot Water Beach with waves crashing along the shoreline, adjacent to a lush green forest.

We have sorted you out with spades and a waterproof backpack to take your towel and clothes in, along with a carry spot for the spades. If you are going for an evening tide, be sure to grab one of the head torches off the rack so that you can find your way there and back.

If you want to get really fancy or build an extra large pool then you can take down a bucket to add some cold water to your pool to help cool it down and add a bit of extra depth.

Our Hot Pools Engineering Guide in our ‘Adventurer’s Handbook’ is a real winner for our guests, ensuring you have the most envious hot pool there.

A woman relaxing in a hot spring pool on Hot Water Beach, and a man walking in the ocean waves in the background at sunset or early evening.

Hot Water Beach is an international tourist destination, but even without travellers from abroad, it can get quite busy. The springs are in a small area, so get there early to find a good spot. Get in and enjoy the reduced numbers for a more personal experience.

There are two springs, one at 60 °C (140 °F) and one at 68 °C (154 °F), which is much hotter than your average spa pool, which sits around 38 – 44 °C (100 – 111 °F). To make the best pool pick a spot half on and half off the spring so you can mix the hot and cold water for a nice relaxing soak.

If you get there a bit later on other beach goers will have dug a few pools already just pick a spot backing onto theirs closer to the waterline but be courteous and don't dig too close or their pool will collapse into yours.

If you want a longer soak add extra sand to the wall of your pool because the tide will be sure to get you first !

Hahei Marine Reserve

Te Whanganui-A-Hei has been a marine reserve since 1992 and is host to a variety of species. Pair this trip with the walk to Cathedral Cove and stop at Mares Leg Cove for a snorkel on your way through.

Pink Snapper, Blue Mao Mao, Kahawai, Kingfish, Red Moki, Trevally, Eagle Rays and Crayfish are just some of the species that you can see when you take a swim in the reserve.

If getting under the water isn't your thing then pack up the kayaks and take a paddle from the north end of Hahei beach to enjoy the beautiful scenery above water, the fish will come right up to you when you are in the reserve. Beach the Kayaks and take a picture in the incredible natural rock formations.

A woman in black athletic wear, a black cap, and sneakers stands on a rocky path taking a photo with her smartphone of a scenic coastal view with cliffs, greenery, and a body of water under a partly cloudy sky.

Hikes & Walks

If you want to take in some of the amazing local scenery while you are here you simply must check out some of the walks you can do. Cathedral Cove, The Twin Kauris & The Cooks Beach - Shakespeare Cliff - Whitianga Rock loop are some of our nearby favourites.

If you are wanting to travel a little further, the Pinnacles or the Coromandel Coastal Walk are well worth the trip. There are far too many to list here but check out The Adventurer's Handbook for more information.

A person walking down a wooden staircase in a lush, green forest with dense trees and foliage.

Exploring Estuaries

There are three main waterways nearby, all of which are well worth exploring. The scenery and birdlife are incredible, and if you know where to look, there are shellfish to gather, Snapper, Trevally & Kahawai on a line, or our favourite Flounder that can be speared at night.

The Purangi Estuary, Cooks Beach, has a strong tidal flow but is very pleasant an hour either side of high tide, and the water flow is slow and steady. Be sure to have a look through The Adventurer's Handbook to see where to go for all our spots.

A woman wearing a black swimsuit and a cap paddleboarding on a narrow river surrounded by lush green trees and plants under a bright blue sky.

EAT & DRINK

A big part of fishing, adventuring, and gathering is knowing what to do with your catch once you get home. If you want to get started but are unsure of what to do, we can help you out. Check out The Adventurer's Handbook for all our local spots to go out and have a great time and get a feed while doing it.

The ‘catch, clean, cook’ idea is much more than just getting something for dinner; it’s getting in touch with our roots as human beings, providing for our family and community, being a part of your environment, and understanding how we can be a sustainable part of it. Nothing beats getting the intrinsic reward of feeling fulfilled when you sit down to a meal with your loved ones that you have put together by hand.

A tray of cooked mussels topped with a tomato-based sauce and cheese.

Outdoor dining table with two plates of food, a cocktail, and two glasses of water with a beach and ocean view in the background.

Hotties Eatery

Hotties Eatery is a small kitchen with big style, Mark takes amazing care with every dish and makes the most delicious cocktails. Located only a short walk up the reserve, this is a great option for a care-free night with amazing food right on your doorstep.

Outdoor dining area at a restaurant during evening with string lights overhead, picnic tables, umbrellas, and people seated at tables.

The Hive

Located on Purangi Road a short ten-minute drive from Hot Water Beach, The Hive operates in the summer months and is one of our top picks. With an incredible alfresco area to relax and enjoy the sunshine in you don't want to miss Ezra's amazing food or Lisa's top-notch service and boutique gift shop.

Pizzas and share plates are the theme here, and you won’t be disappointed.

The Church

The Church Bistro is one of our favourites and offers fine dining cuisine that can rival the best. If we are looking to spend a special night out together, then The Church is at the top of the list. They have a wine list I have nothing but respect for and offer matching options with their dishes.

The Church is the place you must go!

A cozy outdoor patio of a modern house surrounded by lush greenery and trees, with a grass lawn, stone pathway, patio furniture, and umbrellas.

Hot Waves Cafe

Hot Waves Cafe in Hot Water Beach is a great spot to chill in the beautiful gardens or their cosy fireplace, enjoy a coffee, and a bite to eat for breakfast or lunch.

Check out their gallery of local artists’ work on display while you’re there too.