Coromandel Camping & Holiday Parks Where to Stay with Kids

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Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s picturesque landscapes, the Coromandel Peninsula offers an unparalleled camping experience for families seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.

Whether it’s your first time setting up camp under the starlit skies of Coromandel or you’re a seasoned camper revisiting fond memories, the region promises a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.

From the serene beaches to the family-friendly Coromandel holiday parks, every corner of this peninsula whispers tales of nature’s grandeur and the simple joys of outdoor living. Dive into this guide as we navigate the best spots for Coromandel camping, ensuring your family’s journey is both memorable and effortless.

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New Zealand Holiday Parks

While each holiday park in New Zealand has its unique charm, there are common features that make them the preferred choice for families.

Typically, these holiday parks are strategically positioned within walking distance of beaches, lakes, or within regional parks, offering guests an immersive nature experience.

What you can expect from a holiday park in New Zealand:

• Camping Options: Choose between powered and non-powered sites based on your camping needs.
• Accommodation Variety: Whether you’re in the mood for a quaint bach, a modern studio, or a family cabin, there’s a spot just for you.
• Communal Amenities: Benefit from communal kitchens, dining areas and laundries designed for camper convenience.
• Clean Bathrooms: Restrooms and showers often come with access codes or keys. Hot showers may be coin-operated at some holiday parks.
• Child-Friendly Features: Most holiday parks have on-site playgrounds for the little ones, and some of the recently established ones even offer pools and jumping pillows.

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Coromandel Holiday Parks at a Glance

Coromandel Camping: Your Guide to the Best Spots

With so many places to choose from, it might feel a bit overwhelming at first. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break down the Coromandel Peninsula into 4 main areas:

• East Coast Tourist Hotspot: The most popular part of Coromandel. You’ll find the iconic Cathedral Cove and the warm sands of Hot Water Beach.
• Northeast Highlights: Close to Whangapoua, this part of the Peninsula boasts the serene New Chums Beach. These secluded beaches are perfect for families that prefer a quiet day out swimming or kayaking on the calm waters.
• West Coast Charm: This area is all about lovely bays and coves. It’s also where you’ll find the family-friendly Coromandel attraction – Driving Creek Railway.
• Untouched North: The tip of the peninsula is the most remote part of the Coromandel Peninsula. It’s a quiet gem, with places like Port Jackson and Fletcher Bay offering pure, natural beauty. This part of the Peninsula is less developed, so expect basic amenities and raw nature.

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Now, let’s talk about each region of the Coromandel Peninsula and the best holiday parks and holiday homes to stay with families.

Camping on the East Coast: Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach

The East Coast is undeniably the heart of Coromandel’s tourist activity. This side of the peninsula is a magnet for those seeking the best of what Coromandel has to offer. Its accessibility and range of attractions make it a top choice for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers.

When exploring the top things to do in Coromandel, most travellers gravitate towards the iconic Cathedral Cove and the unique Hot Water Beach. For those seeking the perfect base to explore these gems, Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park and Hahei Holiday Resort are our family’s top picks among the Coromandel holiday parks.

Hahei Beach Resort

Nestled a stone’s throw from the pristine Hahei Beach, this Coromandel holiday park offers more than just a place to pitch your tent. It’s about waking up to serene beach walks, witnessing the canvas of sunrise, and basking in the glow of sunset.

Hahei Holiday Resort is a haven for those seeking the quintessential Coromandel camping experience. With its powdery golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Hahei Beach sets the scene for a memorable stay.

Accommodation Types

For those who cherish the classic charm of a Kiwi holiday, Hahei Beach Resort offers a range of accommodation options tailored to different tastes and needs:

Villas & Baches: These fully self-contained homes are perfect for families wanting a touch of luxury. Located right beside the pristine Hahei Beach, they offer a seamless blend of comfort and coastal vibes. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves and the gentle morning sun filtering through your window.

Cabins: The cabins at Hahei are a great choice for a simple family holiday for those who prefer to have a roof over them.

Campsites & Campervans: The campsites at Hahei Beach Resort are within walking distance of the beach. Each site is equipped with power and water hook-ups, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.

Due to the popularity and prime location of this holiday park, Hahei Beach Resort gets booked out in advance, so be sure to lock in your dates as soon as possible.

Family-Friendly Facilities

The communal shower at Hahei Holiday Resort, thoughtfully equipped with a basin and bathtub for infants, has been a game-changer for our daily routines, making it a breeze to bathe our little one.

The BBQ facility, pristine and well-maintained, is strategically placed next to a playground, allowing parents to keep a watchful eye on their children as they cook.

The spacious communal fridge ensures there’s always room for your groceries – remember to label your food.

The Coromandel Peninsula holds a special place in my heart as our family’s end-of-year retreat. I remember the anticipation of school holidays, when we’d load up our caravan and camp at Hahei for months on end. In fact, it was here that I read the entire Harry Potter series cover to cover.

Hahei Holiday Resort has undergone many changes over the decade, but to this day, it remains our top recommendation when it comes to choosing the perfect Coromandel Holiday Park, especially for those exploring the east coast of Coromandel.

We’ve created an interactive packing list tailored for family camping adventures. So bookmark this page and when the time comes to pack, our list will be right here, ready to guide you every step of the way.

Northeast of the Coromandel Peninsula: Holiday Homes

If you’re a fan of pristine white sand beaches, you might have heard of New Chums Beach, which has been ranked among the world’s best 20 deserted beaches by The Guardian (source).

This beach is a hidden gem located just beyond the main Whangapoua shoreline. New Chums is accessible only by a short walk over a headland, through native bush, and along the coast.

For those looking to truly unwind and immerse themselves in the beauty of Coromandel’s best beaches, this region offers a serene escape from the crowds, letting you experience the authentic charm of New Zealand.

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Where to stay in Whangapoua

Whangapoua Beach is lined with a number of holiday homes, which we highly recommend for families. Opting for these homes offers an authentic local experience, allowing you to escape the typical tourist crowds while still being conveniently close to shops and restaurants.

During low tides at Whangapoua Beach, you can collect pipis (small cockles) and savour a fresh seafood meal back at your holiday home. If this appeals to you, choosing a home with a fully-equipped kitchen would be ideal.

Here are two of our top picks:

Whangapoua Holiday Park

During our trip to the northeast region of the Coromandel Peninsula, we chose Whangapoua Holiday Park as our base. (They may operate only during the summer months, so it’s a good idea to check their website for the latest availability.)

We booked both a cabin and a non-powered campsite, as we had extended family with us. The cabin was cosy, equipped with essential kitchenware, and was conveniently located near the communal bathroom. Our campsite, though a bit distant from the main communal area, provided a tranquil retreat amidst nature.

The kitchen and communal areas were always impeccably clean and well-maintained. It was clear to us that the site managers were dedicated to upholding the park’s standards.

Like many other holiday parks in New Zealand, Whangapoua Holiday Park boasts a children’s playground. Our toddler loved the trampoline, which became her favourite spot and kept her entertained throughout our time there.

For families with young children considering a stay at Whangapoua Holiday Park, we’d recommend one of their cabins for added convenience.

Coromandel Holiday Park on the West Coast

The west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse bays in New Zealand. Each bay offers a slightly different experience, making the region a haven for visitors who prefer a slice of paradise to themselves.

As you meander along the bays on the west coast of Coromandel, you’ll find local shops and restaurants serving up some of the freshest oysters and New Zealand mussels you’ve ever tasted. So if you’re a seafood lover, this side of the peninsula makes an excellent base for you.

Oamaru Bay is one of our family’s all-time favourites. Nestled just a short drive from Coromandel Town, Oamaru Bay is a tranquil retreat, perfect for families. The calm waters here are ideal for swimming and kayaking, while the surrounding areas offer scenic walking tracks.

Oamaru Bay Tourist Park and Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park are our recommended Coromandel holiday parks near Oamaru Bay.

Amodeo Bay, on the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, is a hidden gem. The deep waters here are teeming with snapper, kingfish, and other local species, making it a great spot for fishing. The serene environment, coupled with the panoramic views of the coastline, makes Amodeo Bay a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.

The perfect accommodation choices near Amodeo Bay are Papa Aroha Holiday Park and these unique Coastal Chalets.

Wyuna Bay and Long Bay: These neighbouring bays are a haven for those seeking a quiet beachside escape. With golden sands and clear waters, they’re perfect for swimming, picnicking, and simply relaxing.

The best holiday parks to stay near these bays are Coromandel TOP 10 Holiday Park and Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park.

Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

As you can see, Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park is ideally located, offering easy access to some of the most stunning bays on the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Beyond its prime location, what drew us in were its family-friendly pools with a slide and a playground that our kids absolutely loved.

During our stay, we opted for the basic family room with a shared bathroom. Like many basic rooms or cabins at the Coromandel holiday parks, our room here was compact but comfortable. The added convenience of having the back door open out to the communal area made accessing the facilities a breeze.

Just a few steps out from our room, we enjoyed our morning and sunset walks along Shelly Beach. The kids were particularly thrilled with the tiny fish they spotted in the shallow waters, with oyster catchers keenly observing from a distance.

Glamping: For parents who can get away for a night or two, the adult-only beachside glamping pods at Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park are a treat. These Lithuanian-styled pods, overlooking the Kikowhakarere Bay, come with a comfortable queen bed, bar fridge, TV with Freeview, table, chairs, and a sofa.

Imagine watching the sunset from your private deck and then stargazing into the night. It’s glamping at its finest, with the communal bathrooms and kitchen just a short walk away.

5 Minutes to Driving Creek Railway

Only a 5-minute drive from Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park lies one of Coromandel’s most popular attractions: the Driving Creek Railway.

This little train ride will weave through lush native forests, past pottery sculptures, and over trestle bridges. The railway was initially built to transport clay for pottery and bricks, but over time, it has evolved into a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

The highlight of the journey is undoubtedly the EyeFull Tower. Once you reach this observation point, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Coromandel Peninsula, the Hauraki Gulf, and beyond. It was a shame that we were met with rain during our visit. Nevertheless, Driving Creek Railway is a great little adventure for the whole family.

Finding the Best Seafood on the West Coast of Coromandel

For seafood lovers, the best shops to find oysters, New Zealand mussels and smoked fish are found on the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula.

The Coromandel Smoking Co is the best place to get smoked seafood. Specialising in smoked fish and shellfish, this establishment offers a range of products that capture the deep, rich flavours of the ocean. From smoked salmon to mussels, you can enjoy a beautiful smoked seafood picnic by the bay.

Minos Mussel Kitchen is renowned for its fresh mussels, harvested straight from the waters of the Coromandel. Here, you can indulge in mussels prepared in a variety of ways, from classic steamed to rich and creamy sauces. Pair them with a glass of local white wine, and you have a meal that encapsulates the essence of coastal New Zealand.

Beyond its beautiful seafood, Minos Mussel Kitchen stands out for its outstanding customer service, making diners feel instantly drawn into the restaurant’s welcoming embrace.

The outdoor seating area comes alive on a sunny day, resonating with the cheerful buzz of conversation and laughter. We had such a great time at Minos Mussel Kitchen that we had to return for dinner again before leaving the beautiful Coromandel.

Coromandel Oyster Company, on the other hand, takes pride in its farm-fresh oysters, offering them in their purest form. Whether you prefer them raw, garnished with a hint of lemon, or grilled with a touch of garlic butter, the oysters here showcase the region’s abundant seafood offerings.

The seating stretches right onto the sand, providing a casual beachside dining experience. For the little ones, there’s a sand pit to keep them entertained. However, watch out for the sandflies; they aren’t shy about giving a nip and can be quite a nuisance.

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Coromandel Camping at the Pristine Northern Tip

Venturing to the northernmost reaches of the Coromandel Peninsula, you’ll find a world untouched by the hustle and bustle of modern life. Apart from a few basic campsites, there are practically no other accommodation options in this region of the Coromandel Peninsula. This is where you’ll find the ultimate camping experience that’s truly “back to basics.”

Here, the campgrounds are refreshingly undeveloped, free from commercialisation, and offer a raw, authentic connection to nature where cows can be your neighbours. It’s a place where the distractions of the digital age fade away, replaced by the soothing sounds of nature and the gentle rustle of the wind through the trees.

Fantail Bay Campsite is a prime example of this untouched beauty. Nestled amidst lush greenery, it’s a haven for those seeking solitude and direct communion with nature. This is a small campsite managed by DOC and has no power or water.

Port Jackson Camping Ground is another Coromandel camping gem under the DOC’s management. Its pristine location provides campers with a panoramic view of the ocean, and on clear nights, a mesmerising starry sky.

With 300 sites available, it’s larger than Fantail Bay and offers basic amenities like long drop toilets and cold showers.

Fletcher Bay Campsite is another basic camping ground with proximity to the beach. This means you can fall asleep to the gentle lullaby of waves crashing on the shore.

This privately-owned campsite is situated in the scenic Fletcher Bay and can accommodate up to 300 campers. It’s equipped with composting toilets, cold showers, and a communal kitchen.

The bay’s crystal-clear waters make it all worthwhile for those who appreciate the raw beauty of nature.

In a nutshell, the campgrounds in this northern stretch of the Coromandel Peninsula are all about getting back to nature’s basics. They might not have all the bells and whistles of more commercialised sites, but that’s part of their charm. It’s a raw, authentic experience that offers a genuine connection to the land and sea.

This stripped-back style of camping might not be everyone’s cup of tea. For those who truly appreciate the untouched beauty of nature and are content with minimal amenities, staying in the northern tip region of the Coromandel Peninsula is a dream.

Summing Up Our Coromandel Camping Adventures

The Coromandel Peninsula, with its diverse landscapes and untouched beauty, has offered us countless memories and experiences.

From the popular tourist hotspots of the east coast to the rugged bays of the west, and the untouched wilderness of the northern tip, each camping spot has its own unique charm.

While places like Hahei Beach Holiday Park and Whangapoua Holiday Park provide a mix of modern amenities and natural beauty, the more remote sites in the north offer a raw, back-to-basics experience that’s not for everyone but is undeniably special for those who seek it.

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Our adventures across these Coromandel holiday parks have shown us that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing the perfect accommodation in Coromandel. It’s all about what you’re looking for in your camping experience. Whether it’s the convenience of a well-equipped site, the solitude of a basic campground, or even the comfort of holiday homes, Coromandel has something for every kind of visitor.

As we wrap up our journey, we encourage fellow travel families to explore these gems with an open mind and a curious heart. Try new experiences and find your perfect spot on the Coromandel Peninsula.

As always, we strive to provide the best insight for each destination around the world, and Coromandel is no different. We hope you find value in our content and see you in another chapter of travel adventures.

Safe travels and happy camping!

💞 Stay Travel Savvy

For rural regions or underdeveloped destinations, try to support local businesses by booking guesthouses directly with the hosts. Quite often, you’ll be able to negotiate a much better rate and build connections with the locals.

If you’re a frequent traveller, we recommend sticking with one hotel booking site or hotel chain to reap the benefits of its loyalty program. Such as Agoda, Booking, Hotels, Hiltons Honors Program or IHG Rewards Program.

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