Cathedral Cove

Waking up early is doubly worth it. Not only can we enjoy the sunrise almost alone, but also at our next destination the tourist masses have not yet arrived.

After the sunrise we drive along the coast to Cathedral Cove. Or rather to the parking lot of Cathedral Cove. From there, a 45-minute walk leads to the coastal formation, which is a true crowd puller. Rightly so!! However, the small beach section is almost empty at 8:30 a.m. Again, it is not worth describing the whole thing in words. You have to see it. Once again, it's time to say: Look at the pictures :)

We spend the rest of the morning at the nearby Hahei Beach. After a coffee break, shaking our heads over the associated salty prices, and having lunch on the cliffs above the Pacific, we continue to the "Hot Water Beach". A beach where you can create your own warm pool with a shovel at low tide. But after looking at the crowds of people digging like crazy on a few square meters, we don't feel like participating and save ourselves the parking fee and shovel deposit.

A few hours later, we agree: A great decision. We are now further south on a beach near Waihi. On the beach, there are sometimes only a white and a slightly less white German vacationer (us) and no one else. Cliffs, dunes, beach, waves, and sun. That's the life!

The adjacent campsite has a sea view and is well equipped. Price-wise, it is the most expensive place we have spent a night so far, but it's worth it.