When Is the Best Time
New Chums Beach is still a true hidden gem. You won’t find a road, café, or any buildings here — just untouched nature. Plan your visit around the tides. Two hours after high tide and close to low tide works best. At high tide you may get wet feet when you cross the lagoon stream, the beach narrows quickly, and rising water can block your way out. Tide level, wind, and surf all play a role. Tide Times New Chums
We spent four nights in Hahei for Cathedral Cove and used one day to drive to New Chums Beach for more Coromandel exploration.
A Secluded World‑Class Beach
This remote beach, once voted among the top 20 beaches in the world, remains undeveloped and wonderfully quiet. Even camping is not allowed. If you want to escape the crowds, this is your spot. The beach stretches for about one kilometre, with soft white sand and clear turquoise water framed by native bush.
How to Get There
Park at Whangapoua Beach and walk to the northern end. Cross the lagoon stream — easy at low tide, knee‑deep at mid tide — and continue over the boulders along the coast. The trail starts at the end of the rocks and leads through dense forest and over a small saddle. The walk is roughly 1 km and takes 20–30 minutes, depending on the tide and the rocks.
Wear proper shoes. The boulders can be slippery after rain, and the forest track has roots and uneven ground.
The Unmarked New Chums Lookout
Don’t miss the lookout above the beach. The track isn’t signposted, but you’ll spot a small side path other hikers follow. The climb is steep and a bit hairy, yet the view makes every step worth it — one of the best coastal panoramas in the Coromandel. From the top, you see the full curve of New Chums Beach, the turquoise water, and the rugged headlands. Exactly the spot shown in my banner photo.
What to Bring
Bring a towel, plenty of water, and a snack. There are no facilities anywhere along the track or at the beach. Shade is limited, so sunscreen and a hat are essential on sunny days. If you plan to hike the steep rock you need proper shoes with traction.
Waiau Kauri Grove + New Chums Beach
Waiau Kauri Grove and New Chums Beach combine perfectly. Start with the peaceful forest loop through the ancient kauri trees, then continue to New Chums for the rewarding coastal hike — or do it the other way around. You must time your visit to New Chums around low tide, because the lagoon crossing and the narrowing beach can block your way out when the water rises.
We spent four nights in Hahei for Cathedral Cove and used one day to drive to New Chums Beach and the Kauri Grove for more Coromandel exploration.
Pictures were taken by me and Johannes Ehrhardt.
Best Months to Visit
Location and Tips
This secluded world-class beach, voted one of the top 20 in the world, is not easily accessible and still a hidden gem.
