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Hot water beach, New Zealand. Photo by Steve & Jem Copley.

Top 10 Fascinating Facts about Hot Water Beach

Hot Water Beach is a spectacular beach that is located on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand. It is found on the southern side of Mercury Bay and approximately 12 km southeast of Whitianga.

The name of the beach originates from the hot springs which filter up through the sand. Hot Water Beach is a very popular destination for both local and international tourists visiting New Zealand.

The beach is estimated to receive about 700,000 tourists per year, which makes it the greatest tourist attraction in the entire Waikato region.

Hot Water Beach presents a very unique atmosphere and landscape that is rare to find in other places. The area is always gathered with people every single day without the exception of the weather conditions, holidays, or seasons.

The water temperatures are about 64 degrees Celsius and the crowds gather within a 20-meter radius.

 Below are the top ten fascinating facts about Hot Water Beach

1. Visitors Dig Large Holes to Relax and Soak in the Thermal Water

Visitors digging holes on the beach. Photo by Diego Angel.

The visitors enjoy the soothing thermal water by digging large holes to relax and soak themselves. The digging allows the hot water to escape onto the surface which creates a hot water pool.

The water temperatures are about 64 degrees Celsius and the hot water filters from the two underground fissures just found close to one another.

Tourists often bring spades with them and buckets but the spades can also be hired from a near surf shop.

2. Hot Water Beach is known for the Dangerous Rip Currents and Large Waves

The Hot Water Beach is popularly known for the dangerous holes, rip currents as well as large waves. Thus a lot of care needs to be taken since the hot springs are not very far from the sea even when the tides are low. Sometimes the visitors maybe unaware of the incoming large breaking waves.

The visitors are also advised not to swim especially within the 50m on either side of the offshore. The rip currents have however led to the death of several visitors who were unaware.

3. Hot Water Beach is the Most Famous of the Coromandel Beaches

Hot Water Beach on Coromandel Peninsula. Photo by Krzysztof Golik.

Hot Water Beach is considered the most famous of the Coromandel beaches for its unique features. The beach provides a spectacular place to relax with the hot water being easily accessible for two hours from either side of the low tides.

There are always several activities to do with the beach offering the best accommodations and camping grounds that are within easy access.

The visitors also have an opportunity to view the South Pacific Ocean as they enjoy the therapeutic waters.

4. Eateries Offer Seasonal Food and Seafood Farmed or Caught Locally

The magnificent Hot Water Beach is surrounded by eateries that offer a variety of seasonal food, and seafood that is farmed and caught locally.

The eateries are well suited to serve different classes of people from the humble but tasty bakery as well as the classical French cuisine.

The holiday park is also surrounded by farms that range from avocado, and sheep to kiwi orchards. Breweries and cafes are scattered throughout the area.

5. Surfing and Diving in Hot Water Beach are Well Provided

Surfer looking at the rock formation. Photo Jens Theeß.

Water sports in Hot Water Beach including surfing and diving are well catered for with experienced divers for the beginners as well as the experienced divers.

Surfing is a popular activity all year long with reliable point breaks. However, great care has to be taken from the powerful rips and also there are no lifeguards during the winter months.

The holiday parks are also very reliable for large families as well as large groups.

6. Winter is the Best Season to Visit Hot Water Beach

Winter is the best season to visit Hot Water Beach since during the summer, New Zealand is very busy and the crowds are a bother. During the winter, it’s the best time to avoid the crowds and enjoy the great experience.

The water is also hot during the winter and it’s an activity that can be enjoyed on the beach. Especially during the holidays in December, the area is fully packed.

7. Low Tide is Ridiculously Early in the Morning or Late at Night

Low tides at Hot Water Beach. Photo by Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz.

The low tides are most amazing either early in the morning or late at night. During the two periods, the area is also not crowded and it’s a great time for either a family or a group to enjoy.

Some people also get up at 2 am to visit the place and it’s also a great opportunity to view the beautiful sunrise and the sunset.

8. Hot Water Beach is a Two Hour drive From Auckland

Hot Water Beach is located about 109 miles from Auckland city which is on the Coromandel Peninsula of New Zealand. The journey from Auckland to Hot Water Beach takes about two hours.

Traveling during the day is expected to take some more time due to the delay caused by the traffic. Tairua and Hahei are the closest towns and have a great places to stay in case you arrive late.

9. The Sunrise and Sunset are so Spectacular

The sunrise and the sunset on the Hot Water Beach are very spectacular as they provide the most amazing view.

Visitors wake up very early before sunrise just to have a beautiful experience. The area is also not crowded and it is quiet it provides a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

10. Hot Water Beach is Captivating for Couple Dates

The fascinating features in the Hot Water Beach are so welcoming for the couple dates to enjoy and have a good time.

Couples can remain on the beach till late at night and enjoy the beautiful sunset as the place is less crowded. Soaking in the hot water is very relaxing as the couple rest from a long day of activities.

Hot Water Beach is a very fascinating place to visit especially during the winter when the area is less crowded. There are also many water sports to enjoy with large families and groups including diving and surfing.

Hot Water Beach has magnificent eateries that offer delicious meals including seasonal foods and sea foods.