Hot Water Beach is one of New Zealand’s most iconic experiences! One of the few places you can relax at the beach in the geothermal hot water.
Just 10 minutes from Hahei and an extra 5 from Cathedral Cove, don’t miss this beach when you’re in the area.
About
Unlike any ordinary beach, Hot Water Beach has geothermal springs just beneath its sands, creating hot water that seeps up naturally through the ground.
The hot water is only accessible at low tide. Bring a spade and you can dig your own little private hot tub right on the beach. Or if it’s super busy just wait until someone is ready to leave and you can take over their mini hot pool.
Hot Water Beach gets pretty chaotic over the Summer months which is the most popular time to visit with tourists coming from all over the world. Because it gets so busy, and so hot, one of my favourite times to go is during Spring (September - November) or Autumn (March - May).
Access
Tides - This is the most important part of planning a visit to Hot Water Beach. You must check the tides as you can only access the hot springs around low tide.
The best window to dig and enjoy the pools is generally two hours before to two hours after low tide. Outside this window, the hot water remains under the ocean and inaccessible.
You can check the tides here.
Parking
The beach is easily accessible by car. Take the Hot Water Beach turn off from State Highway 25 and follow the signs.
There is a pay by plate carpark directly opposite the beach which is $4.50 per hour. There are also 2 other carparks which are easy walking distance during the busy season.
Right next to the carpark you will find showers to rinse off the sand, toilets and a cafe where you can hire a spade if you want.
Swimming
Beach - Hot Water Beach is a renown surf beach with multiple beach breaks and a point break. You can hire a board or book lessons at Hot Water Beach Surf School.
Because of the dangerous rip currents and large waves over Summer there is a designated swimming area with Lifeguards where you must swim in between the flags.
Hot Pools - The geothermal water can reach over 60°C, so be careful before dipping your foot into one of the hot pools to avoid burns.
The hot water moves around, so some spots may start out too hot, and cool down later, or vice versa. You can bring a bucket to cool pools down with seawater or dig channels between the pools. Or just wait until someone leaves and you can take theirs.
As the tide comes in it fills the hot pools with seawater and can help cool the pools down.
Where to Eat
Hotties is your closest option, right on the beach next to the carpark. Offering a small store where you can purchase snacks and ice cream along with essentials like sunblock, souvenirs and hire a spade.
They also have a resturant with locally sourced seafood and home grown produce with favourites like tacos, burgers, fries and drinks. You can also get desserts made from New Zealand's iconic Duck Island Ice cream.
A few minutes drive and up in the bush you will find Hot Waves Cafe which is also delicious.
At the local campground which is a Top 10 Holiday Park you will find Hotspot Pizza & Brews. Or head into Hahei for more options.
Where to Stay
The very closest is the Top 10 Holiday Park which is one our faves with great facilities and a heated pool and is walking distance to the beach.
If you’re in the car, your next closest township would be Hahei. You can also check out:
Download your Free Hot Water Beach Guide Here.
Find my Presets Here.
