Hot Water Beach

Hot springs seep up under the sand at the south end of the beach, and for roughly two hours either side of low tide people dig pools and soak in them. Water can be scalding in the hottest spots, so test before you sit. The sea here has strong rips, so the hot pool is for soaking and the surf is not for swimming.

Good to know

• Check the low tide time for Whitianga/Hot Water Beach before you leave
• Hire or buy a spade from the shops near the beach
• Dig a channel to the sea so cooler water can mix in
• Do not swim in the surf, rips are strong and have caught people out
• Moonlit low tides are much quieter

Best time

Within two hours of low tide, ideally a low tide at dawn or after dark

Open

All year

Getting there

Sealed road and a large car park next to the beach. Fine for campervans but crowded on summer low tides.

Vehicles

Campervans fine

Facilities

• Rubbish bins
• Toilets

The location is approximate. Check the official website before you go.

Data: Roadtrip. Things change: check opening times, prices and rules before you go.