Hot Water Beach: Hot Pools in Tune with the Tides
Accommodation in Hot Water Beach
Hot Water Beach combines geothermally heated beach pools with a coastal setting on the Pacific Ocean. This unique experience follows the tides: natural hot pools are available right on the beach all year round. However, the hot springs are accessible only at low tide. About two hours on either side of low tide usually provide an opportunity to dig your own spa pool in the sand.
Hot Pools in Tune with the Low Tide
The tides wash away the hot pools dug by visitors. They are not permanent features on the beach: your own pool is made in the sand and later washed away by the tide. Timing your visit around low tide is therefore essential. You can rent spades for digging at Hotties Cafe, Hot Water Beach Cafe and Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park.
Coastal Scenery and Swimming
Hot Water Beach looks out over the Pacific Ocean and offshore Castle Rock. Cliffs lined with pōhutukawa trees stand at both ends of the beach. These distinctive features give the beach its coastal character, whether you come for the hot pools or primarily for the scenery.
Be aware of the surf when swimming: Hot Water Beach has strong currents and rip currents. Swim between the flags put up by the Surf Lifeguard Service. The flag rule applies to swimming and provides clear guidance for your time in the water.
Culture and Activities in the Area
The natural pools are near a urupā and a pā. Ngāti Hei and the local community protect this taonga. Hot Water Beach is therefore not only a geothermal natural attraction but also a place with this cultural connection.
If you’d like to combine time by the water with another activity, Te Puia Surf Co offers private one-to-one or group lessons in shortboard and longboard surfing. Moko Artspace showcases works by well over 100 artists. The destination brings together a range of interests: digging your own beach pool, surfing and an art-focused visit.
Parking and Choosing a Holiday Base
Car parks are available at Main Beach carpark, Te Waiwai carpark and Main Store carpark. Fees may apply at Main Store carpark. Cathedral Cove is about a five-minute drive from Hot Water Beach, making it another nearby destination to consider when planning your trip.
If the tidal pools and coastal surroundings are the focus of your stay, you can consider Hot Water Beach as a holiday base when looking for a holiday rental. The decision mainly depends on whether you want the beach itself to be the centrepiece of your trip.
More destinations to discover: Hahei, Coromandel, Thames, Hikuai, Te Puru, Whangamata, Hikutaia and Tapu.
Go to the regional travel overview: Thames-Coromandel District.
