Hahei Beach and Cathedral Cove

Coming from America, Hahei was my first beach stop when visiting the Coromandel.  We found a little corner under a huge red blossoming Pohutakawa Tree (the New Zealand Christmas Tree).  We had this section exclusively to ourselves. The water was intensely blue and the waves were very inviting.  I have never had so much fun body surfing for hours.  With every crevice filled with sand we made it back to the beach for another first.  My first Mr. Whippy ice cream, smoothe soft serve ice cream from a cute truck parked right by the beach.  I still get excited and can’t resist every time I see Mr. Whippy now. 

From Hahei we took a trail through a 20 minute scenic bush walk overlooking the ocean to Cathedral Cove.  If I was ever to be stranded on a disserted island, please make it like this.  I first noticed the enormous arched cave you have to time going through as to not get soaked.  On the other side are great rocks and trees to explore and a beautiful beach to work on your tan.  There is a cool waterfall that the kids loved playing in and made for the perfect photo opp.  Sitting on the beach you look out over several jagged rock formations and reefs out to the crystal blue water.  A gorgeous place to watch the sun set.