Where to stay on the Coromandel Peninsula: Our complete guide

Hello, it’s obviously been a long time since I last wrote a New Zealand article, but here I am again! It’s been a couple of years since I wrote a comprehensive article about the must-see places on the Coromandel Peninsula! Some time ago I thought that a guide to where to stay on the Coromandel Peninsula might help you prepare for your stay there. To tell you the truth, I had the opportunity to spend 5 days there and I can assure you it is well worth the detour! It was a great stop on one of my New Zealand road trips (see how-to article). With its gorgeous beaches, walks and beautiful hidden spots, it was a real change of scenery for all of us! Both wild and authentic, the Coromandel Peninsula is full of surprises! Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to see it all (as always when travelling slowly). But that’s just a postponement, even though I’m now living in Guadeloupe, the places are nowhere near! I have to admit that I’d love to come back and discover what I missed and revisit some of the most beautiful spots, such as the famous Hot Water Beach (out of season), Cathedral Cove, New Chum Beach and many more! I’d say the only downside was the number of tourists who, like me, didn’t want to miss these beautiful spots. I can assure you, though, that it didn’t stop me from enjoying myself, even if I did grumble at times!

As you can see, the aim of this article is to give you a good list of places to stay near the best spots. I’d advise you to spend a few days on the Coromandel Peninsula and stay at different places. That’s it and I’ll leave you to discover the accommodation lists I’ve prepared for you!

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It’s no coincidence that I start with Whitianga. It is often the starting point for exploring the Coromandel Peninsula. And it’s easy to see why! Quite simply, it’s one of the largest towns on the peninsula and, best of all, it’s close to a number of must-sees: Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach and the beaches of Cooks.

The Oceans Resort is ideally located in Whitianga, close to Buffalo Beach and the city centre. There’s a choice of spacious, fully-equipped apartments, perfect for a stay with family, friends or just the two of you! As for amenities, there’s a heated swimming pool, tennis court and even a children’s playground! If you’re looking for a prime location and a relaxing atmosphere in a beautiful facility, Oceans Resort is an excellent choice!

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As the name suggests, this motel is perfect for waking up to incredible views of Mercury Bay! Choose from a variety of comfortable suites and studios. Either way, you’ll have everything you need: kitchenette, terrace or balcony overlooking the ocean! In short, The Oceanside Motel is the perfect place to relax and enjoy Whitianga in all its simplicity.

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A warm welcome awaits you at this guesthouse where you can enjoy your stay in Whitianga! You’ll be a little further from the town centre than the previous accommodation, but in a quiet neighbourhood. As for the rooms, they’re comfortable and beautifully decorated! What’s more, the host offers a good breakfast and practical services such as private parking. In other words, no headaches here: everything is done to make your life easier!

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A change of scenery and we are in Coromandel Town, the peninsula’s little corner of paradise. The atmosphere here is laid back. I really appreciate its authenticity. If you stop here, you’ll be close to the Driving Creek Railway (I didn’t go there myself as I thought it was too touristy at the time).

Reviews of this motel are unanimous: it’s a little oasis of peace between the sea and the mountains! There are studios for two and even a whole apartment with a spa area (jacuzzi overlooking the sea). Sounds pretty tempting, doesn’t it? And that’s not all! You’re just 300 metres from the beach at Long Bay. If you want to pamper yourself and enjoy a beautiful setting, I highly recommend this motel!

Surrounded by lush greenery, this charming lodge is perfect for nature lovers seeking relaxation and conviviality. You can choose between comfortable en-suite rooms or dormitories. Either way, you’ll have access to well-equipped communal kitchens, large gardens and even barbecue areas. In short, this lodge is perfect for sharing moments with fellow travellers!

If you’re looking for an unusual place to stay, you’ll love Hush Boutique Accommodation! It’s set in the heart of nature, surrounded by trees. You’ll enjoy wooden bungalows with terraces. Imagine being in the middle of this extraordinary setting! Personally, this is the kind of off-the-beaten-track accommodation I love.

Long Bay Motor Camp is the perfect place to stay by the sea with its own private beach. This campsite offers a variety of accommodation types, from cabins to chalets, all equipped for simple but practical comfort. Travellers love the location, with its panoramic sea views, and the activities on offer, such as kayaking!

Head to Hahei, a pretty coastal town with a beautiful beach of white sand and turquoise water! You’ll be close to Cathedral Cove and even Hot Water Beach.

As you’d expect, Hahei Beach Resort lives up to its name. You’re right on the beach, with Hahei Beach at your feet! Cathedral Cove is only an hour’s walk away. It may seem like a long walk, but I assure you it’s worth it! Back to accommodation, you can choose from comfortable villas or bungalows for up to seven people (with sea or garden views)! If you ask me, this is the perfect resort for a group stay!

Pamper myself at Hahei Beach Resort

A charming guesthouse where conviviality and tranquility go hand in hand! You’ll enjoy direct access to the beautiful surrounding beaches and Cathedral Cove. As for the rooms, they’ve been recently refurbished and decorated to a very high standard. But that’s not all! Andrea and Mike, the hosts, are very welcoming and will give you the best tips for exploring the area. A real plus in my opinion!

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Vacay Hahei offers a modern one bedroom apartment or a complete three bedroom house. Both options are very well located and offer stunning sea views. In fact, you’re only a stone’s throw away from the beach! In terms of facilities, you’ll find everything you need: a fully equipped kitchenette, dining area and comfortable bedrooms. In other words, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy Hahei to the fullest.

Enjoy your holiday on the peninsula

Let’s stay on the coast of the peninsula with Pauanui! On the outskirts of town you can enjoy beautiful white sandy beaches and lush vegetation in a family friendly atmosphere. A change of scenery guaranteed!

A beautiful 4 star resort on the golden sandy beach of Pauanui! The resort offers a range of well-appointed apartments. In terms of services, you’ll be delighted to find a heated swimming pool, spa and even a tennis court. All in all, it’s the ideal place to relax and enjoy quality services!

Augusta Grand Pauanui, a Golfers Dream House, is a very luxurious villa in Pauanui. As you can see, it’s ideal for golf enthusiasts! It’s also very popular with large families. With 200m², four bedrooms, three bathrooms and an indoor pool, it’s sure to please!

If you choose this accommodation, you’ll be in the middle of a unique natural setting! Here we offer you a stay in the heart of nature with a touch of luxury. After all, you’ll be in the middle of 10 hectares of forest! The rooms are elegant and comfortable, with private balconies. And that’s not all: there’s a heated swimming pool, a spa and a renowned restaurant. As I write this, I can’t think of a better place to relax and enjoy!

Another coastal village not to be missed! Tairua is famous for its beautiful beach and stunning views of Mount Paku. In my opinion, it’s the perfect place to recharge your batteries and enjoy outdoor activities.

Situated on the esplanade opposite Tairua Harbour, this resort has the perfect location: facing the sea (I’ll let you imagine the beautiful sunsets). There’s a choice of studios and apartments, depending on the number of guests, with basic or superior comfort. In any case, all units have sea views! And don’t forget the barbecue area for those cosy evenings!

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This modern 33 m² studio invites you to enjoy a stay between the sea and the mountains. Inside you’ll find everything you need: a kitchenette, lounge area, terrace and even a garden! The real plus of this accommodation: its peaceful location and the warm welcome of its host, who takes care of every detail. For a simple, comfortable and inexpensive stay for two, this studio is ideal!

Plan my dream holiday

The Bluewater Studio offers you a cosy guest room with all the comforts you need! In fact, it’s more of a studio than a single room, with its own bathroom and kitchenette. As a bonus, you’ll have access to a garden dining area complete with barbecue. It’s always nice to have a barbecue on holiday! As well as being welcoming, the hosts will make you feel right at home. Are you convinced?

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We’re staying on the coast of the Coromandel Peninsula in the small village of Kuaotunu. Here you’ll be close to the beautiful beaches of Otama Beach and Kuaotunu Beach.

If you’re looking for a peaceful setting, surrounded by nature and close to some stunning beaches, this is the place for you! You’ll enjoy self-contained accommodation with a fully equipped kitchenette and comfortable bed. The little extra: a beautiful outdoor green space. As an added bonus, you’ll be welcomed by two hosts who are always ready to share their tips for visiting the area. Isn’t that nice?

Surrounded by New Zealand’s natural beauty, Kuaotunu Chalets offers a peaceful stay with sea views! You can choose to stay in one of the modern redwood chalets. Personally, I think it’s a nice change from more ‘classic’ accommodation and adds a touch of authenticity to your stay! As for activities, you’ll have easy access to beaches, hiking trails and even small local shops.

Perched high above Kuaotunu beach, this cottage offers an exceptional setting with spectacular sea views. The apartment is modern and spacious with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large terrace. For your information, if you’re travelling with your pet, they are more than welcome. In my opinion, you’ll feel right at home in Rawhiti Cottage at Kaeppeli’s!

Waihi is a charming little town known for its history and relaxed atmosphere. Situated near the famous Karangahake Gorge, it offers wonderful walks and even the chance to explore an old gold mine.

The Palm Motel offers a truly convenient location, ideal for exploring the surrounding area! Stay here and you’ll be right next to the Karangahake Gorge. The rooms are well equipped. You’ll have everything you need and as a bonus there’s a swimming pool for the summer and a Jacuzzi that’s open all year round.

My stay at Palm Motel Waihi

The Palm Motel offers a truly convenient location, ideal for exploring the surrounding area! If you choose to stay here, you’ll be right next to the Karangahake Gorge. The rooms are well equipped. There’s a swimming pool for the summer and a hot tub that’s open all year round.

Choose Araluen Cottage

For value for money, convenient and comfortable accommodation, this motel is an excellent choice. It is ideally located close to the Martha Gold Mine. What’s more, you can choose from two studios and one apartment, depending on the number of people you’re accommodating. In short, for a great value stay without compromising on comfort, the Waihi Motel is an excellent choice!

Stay at the Waihi Motel

Whangamata is a must for beach and nature lovers. If you want to get out to sea, neighbouring islands such as Whenuakura can be reached by kayak or canoe (a fun way to get around, don’t you think?). Whangamata is a great place to enjoy the beauty of the Coromandel and its many activities.

Just a stone’s throw from the beach and marina, the Breakers Motel is a great option for family stays. You can enjoy spacious accommodations and facilities for children (playground and trampoline). The apartments are modern, and some even have a private jacuzzi and terrace. What stands out in the reviews is the motel’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere. For all these reasons, this accommodation is a sure bet for exploring the Coromandel Peninsula!

This motel is a great choice in Whangamata! Close to the beach and the town centre, it’s conveniently located. But that’s not all! The facilities are first class: swimming pool, spa and tennis court. Plenty of fun to be had! If you’re looking for 4-star accommodation to enjoy the city and relax, I’d say this motel ticks all the boxes.

Discover this little haven of peace in a tropical setting, perfect for recharging your batteries! This B&B has a very good reputation. Everything is done to make you feel at home: a fully equipped kitchen, an outdoor area with barbecue and, to top it all off, an on-site massage service. In short, Estuary Retreat Whangamata promises to make your stay as relaxing as possible.

Thames is a small town with a big feel. Between the cafes, local shops and nearby walks like the one to the Pinnacles (I haven’t done it yet, but it’s on my bucket list if I get the chance to come back), Thames is a great place to explore the region and its surroundings.

This lodge opens its doors to you for a stay in the heart of nature! It’s situated just above the town: imagine the view over the bay. There’s also a spa, a large garden and a terrace. Special mention for hikers: you’ll love the nearby trails. And after a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than a hot tub! What do you think?

Choose Waiothai Valley Lodge

Discover the Rolleston Motel, close to the port of Thames! It boasts a peaceful atmosphere, two saltwater swimming pools and comfortable rooms with kitchenettes. The welcome is warm, and the children’s facilities are excellent. You’ll also find free parking on site, with almost direct access to beaches and hot springs. Honestly, it’s a great place to stay when visiting the peninsula.

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Here you’ll find beautiful cottages with spectacular ocean views! Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi (always a holiday treat). Above all, this property offers a peaceful location, away from it all, in the heart of nature. You can really enjoy this setting as if you were alone in the world. For me, that’s the kind of experience I prefer (away from the crowds, haha)!

Planning my stay

You ask. I’d say December to March, when you’re more likely to enjoy the beaches and water sports. Spring is also a good time to avoid the tourists. As for me, I went in October to avoid the high season and take advantage of the rather mild temperatures. Well, climatically it was perfect, but there were still a lot of tourists for my taste. So it’s up to you! To find out more about when to go to New Zealand, I invite you to read the article at the link above. I hope it will help you agree on departure dates haha!

As you can imagine, having had the chance to visit the peninsula, I can’t recommend it enough! Between the fine sandy beaches, lush forests, hot springs and small coastal villages, it’s a complete change of scenery! Whether you like hiking, outdoor activities or anything to do with history, I’m sure you’ll love the peninsula! And let’s not forget the natural side of things, which will really help you relax. I could go on and on, but I’ll stop here! I hope I’ve inspired you to visit the Coromandel Peninsula!

After this round-up of accommodation in New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula, I hope you’ve been able to get on with organising your trip! I’d also recommend reading our article on budgeting for a trip to New Zealand. But that’s not all! During my New Zealand road trips, I also had the chance to explore the North Island with my family. Frankly, I have fond memories of it! If you’re interested and still planning your itinerary, I’ve written a full article about the North Island.

See you soon for more adventures!

Written by Sylvain PONS

Living in French Polynesia at the time, I explored New Zealand from 2017 to 2020 during two road trips of two months each. As a family, we camped and discovered the beauty of these two islands.

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