Cathedral Cove Walk is closed while work to reinstate the track is underway. The track is expected to be open in December 2024. Until December 2024, access to Cathedral Cove is by the sea only, with a water taxi, boat and kayak tours available. For more information, visit the Department of Conservation(opens in new window).
Cathedral Cove is arguably one of the most picturesque spots (and there are many) in The Coromandel.
The majestic natural rock archway, turquoise waters, rock stacks and golden sands of Cathedral Cove are the most iconic parts of the Coromandel coastline.
You can choose to explore Cathedral Cove from land, on the water, or in the air, with tour operators aplenty offering cruises, water taxi services, kayaking options, diving and snorkelling, heli-tours and sailing boats.
Here a gigantic arched cavern passes through a white rock headland to join two coves. The cathedral-like arch gives the whole area an air of grandeur.
The waters surrounding Cathedral Cove are part of the Te Whanganui-o-Hei/Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve. For swimmers, snorkellers and scuba divers, below the surface provides a visual feast of sponge gardens, reef systems and marine life to observe.
Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve protects a wide range of marine life. Make sure you know the marine reserve rules before you go.
Just off the beach at Cathedral Cove is a large pinnacle of pumice breccia rock known as 'Te Hoho'. Over centuries this has been sculpted by wind and water - it now looks like the prow of a large ship steaming into the beach.
It is recommended that all visitors driving to Hahei Beach and Cathedral Cove use the Hahei Visitor Carpark on Pā Road, or the Cathedral Cove Gateway Carpark on Lees Road.
There are no bins at Cathedral Cove, so please take your rubbish with you when you leave. This helps protect wildlife and keeps the reserve beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
Cathedral Cove Walk is closed but local tour operators are taking visitors to see Cathedral Cove by boat or kayak.
A full list of operators in the area is available on Destination Hauraki Coromandel.(opens in new window)
Visitors are advised not to disembark due to the risk of rockfall and landslides.
Please check the Department of Conservation website(opens in new window) before planning a trip.
Please note there are no toilets on Cathedral Cove beach.
The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand, for now, and for future generations. By following the Tiaki Promise, you are making a commitment to act as a guardian, protecting and preserving our home.
