Whiritoa to the south, Onemana and Opoutere to the north are only minutes away by car, and for further trips a field, Thames (52km) and Whitianga (83km) are reached by sealed roads.
It is possible to make a round trip in a day, travelling north to Whitianga, west to Coromandel, south to Paeroa via Thames and east to Waihi, finishing with 30kms north back to Whangamata, without undue strain. Trips to the Coromandel north of Whitianga or Coromandel town require a little more planning.
Whiritoa
Beach resort about 15kms south of Whangamata. Beach very rough but at
northern end is Moa Reserve, (with toilets, bathing shed, inland lagoon
popular with children in particular)
If you wade across the lagoon
you reach the start of a walking track to Waimana Bay (20 mins). At the
southern end of the beach is a blowhole which can be reached after a
scramble up the rocks.
Onemana
North of Whangamata for 8kms, turn right before the long straight,
taking the Onemana Road. Continue on and over the hill. Onemana is
bounded by the Tairua Forest, the rolling contours of the landscape
provide views of infinite distances across the Pacific Ocean. Onemana
is placed among the spectacular coastline of the Coromandel Peninsula,
with the Aldermen Islands to the north and Mayor Island to the south.
Onemana Page >
Opoutere
Opoutere
village is located some 3.5km from the turnoff on S.H.25 halfway
between Whangamata and Hikuai. A Youth Hostel and public car park
for beach access are another 1km further on around the side of the
Wharekawa Harbour.
Opoutere Page >>
On the Coromandel Peninsula
Cathedral Cove
Some of the finest beaches for many, many miles dot this coast, the
most well known is Cathedral Cove - a 40 minute scenic walk from Hahei.
The surrounding marine reserve, established in 1992, protects all
marine life and features.
Driving Creek Railway
New Zealand's only narrow gauge mountain railway. Replanted New Zealand
Native Forest. Massive environmental and civil engineering features.
Trains now run to summit terminus after 20 years of construction.
Unique owner-designed and built rolling stock.
Hot Water Beach
Is one of the region's most fascinating places. For two hours either
side of low tide, you can dig in the sand for hot spring water and make
your own spa pool. Check out more about the Cook's Coast area.
Miranda Hot Springs
Nothing to do? Come, relax in the soothing hot waters of the largest
100% natural mineral pool in the Southern Hemisphere. 35 - 37ºC, warmer
in Winter - cooler in Summer. Also Adults sauna pool 40 - 41ºC. Private
spa tubs. Children's pool.
Karangahake Walkway
The Waikino Rail Station marks the eastern end of this popular 2 - 3
hour walkway. A shuttle is available back to Karangahake on school
holidays and summer weekends. A short 1 hour loop walk is possible at
the Karangahake end of the walkway.