Dig Your Own Spa at Hot Water Beach
Photographer: Chris McLennan
(www.cmphoto.co.nz)
Hot Water Beach is a popular beach and geothermal attraction located on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, approximately 12 kilometres southeast of Whitianga.
Hot Water Beach is as good as its name. Hot pools can be dug out of the sand at low tide near the rocks and in places where steam can be seen rising from the open sea at high tide. It's a great family activity, both in summer and winter.
Spades for digging your pool are available for hire.
Volcanic activity is no longer prevalent on the Coromandel Peninsula—the hot mineral pools are a legacy of an exciting geothermal past.
Hot Water Beach is also known as a good surfing spot.
WARNING! Swimming in the sea at Hot Water Beach can be dangerous due to rip tides. Swim only between the flags if the Hot Water Beach Lifeguard Service are on patrol. Otherwise it is advised that you do not attempt to swim in the surf unless you are a strong swimmer.
