Swim Your Way Through The Coromandel

Kauaeranga Valley, Thames

The Kauaeranga Valley is home to numerous swimming holes, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. The Shag Stream swimming hole is easily accessible, located just across the road from the Kauaeranga DOC Visitor Centre and adjacent to the Shag Stream campsite. A sandy edge allows for easy movement between the land and pools.

A favourite among locals, Hoffman’s Pool is an ideal spot for a picnic and a swim. Adventurous swimmers can enjoy rock jumping into its deep pools. Located 10 minutes past the Kauaeranga DOC Visitor Centre, the pools are accessible via a 500-metre walk from two nearby carparks.

Whangamatā

At the Whangamatā Wharf, summer visitors often perfect their manu dives from the wharf or enjoy the pontoon for more laid-back swimming.

Wentworth Valley Falls offers an easy 3km walk suitable for families (dogs must be on a lead). A small track from the lookout leads to the swimming spot at the base of the stunning two-drop falls. Note that the climb down is steep and requires caution. Access is via Wentworth Valley Road, 7km south of Whangamatā on State Highway 25, where you'll also find a DOC campsite, picnic areas, and historic gold mining features.

Karangahake Gorge

Owharoa Falls, located just a few metres up Waitawheta Road opposite The Falls Retreat, is a picturesque swimming spot. While popular, it requires caution due to strong currents, slippery rocks, and hidden snags.

Tairua River - Hikuai

Along SH25a, 7km from the Whangamatā turnoff, lies a great swimming hole on the Tairua River. Just before the bridge, a narrow vehicle track on the left leads through the bush to this inviting spot.

Frog Rock - Puketui Valley
A short drive from Broken Hills campground, Frog Rock is a beloved local swimming hole. The flat, froggy-shaped rock sits in the middle of a wide, deep river section. Park at the roadside and cross rocky terrain and river currents to reach the sloping rocky embankment. Access is via Morrison’s Road off SH25, continuing onto Puketui Valley Road for 6km to the carpark.

Pāuanui

Tangiteroria Stream Waterfall offers a popular swimming hole with rocky edges and deep pools. The unmarked parking area on the right, just before the entrance to Pāuanui on Hikuai Settlement Road, connects to a 20-minute walk leading to this serene spot.

Whitianga

Egan Park is a tranquil nature reserve located about 7km from the Waiau Kauri Grove, or 1.7 km from State Highway 25 Whitianga side. Tucked against the hillside, it offers a peaceful spot for picnics and freedom camping, complete with ample parking. The park features a secluded Nikau grove with shaded picnic tables, perfect for relaxing on a sunny day. A small ‘beach’ and a refreshing waterhole invite you to swim, skim stones, or enjoy the rope swing for a laid-back afternoon by the water.

309 Road

Waiau Falls is a must-visit along the 309 Road. A short track through lush bush leads to the waterfall, which cascades over rocks into a deep pool. The falls can also be admired from the roadside, just 7km from the Coromandel Town end.

Swimming Complexes

For a family-friendly day out, visit one of the region’s community pools in Thames, Paeroa, Ngatea, Waihi, Whangamatā, Whitianga, or Coromandel Town.

Swim Safely

Always swim with care. Check local conditions, know your limits, and follow safety guidelines. When swimming in the sea, remember to swim between the flags.