An absolute must for any New Zealand itinerary is at least a few hours at Hot Water Beach. Here are five good reasons you don’t want to miss Hot Water Beach New Zealand.
1. Only in New Zealand
Hot Water Beach is one of those unique “only in New Zealand” activities that you must do. Where else in the word exists a thermal hot spring along the coastline?
Because Hot Water Beach is such an exclusive attraction in New Zealand, hundreds of thousand of tourists visit it every year. I’ve heard stories of the beach packed with loads of tourists; however, that was not my experience on a Wednesday evening from 7 pm until sunset.
In any case, don’t let the other tourists scare you away. Take my word—Hot Water Beach is a must-see while you’re in New Zealand.
2. Hot Water Beach is Free!
While New Zealand is a notoriously expensive destination, any activity that is cheap or free is very much welcomed in my book. Hot Water Beach certainly fits that bill as it is a 100% free New Zealand activity.
The only cost that you may incur at Hot Water Beach is a shovel or spade rental. You’ll want a shovel to dig out a hole for your DIY hot tub, especially if you arrive early before any holes are dug. By digging down into the sand, you allow the hot water below the sand to surface.
In any case, a shovel rental will cost you $5 or $10. You also have the option of borrowing a shovel or hopping in a deserted, pre-dug hot tub.
3. Up to 147°F Water Temperature
Hot Water Beach has some of the hottest water temperatures. With water temperature topping 147°F, you have to be careful not to burn yourself.
As you dig your spa in the sand, you’ll typically find a vent of hot water. This water source will serve the purpose of heating the rest of the tub. In other words, one side of the hot pool will probably be a lot hotter than the other side.
I remember sitting on the side with the source of the hot spring water. You could easily burn yourself if you aren’t careful.
Check out this website for the latest information regarding when is the best time to visit Hot Water Beach and tide times.
4. Hot Water Beach Is About 2 Hours from Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city with a population of over 1.5 million. It’s for that reason that you’ll probably fly into the Auckland airport.
Hot Water Beach New Zealand is located a little more than a 2 hour drive from Auckland on the Coromandel peninsula. We stayed in Hahei, just 8 minutes north.
Although I don’t recommend it, you could probably do Hot Water Beach as a day trip from Auckland. Instead, spend some time in the area and check out Hahei Beach’s bioluminescent water.
5. Mineral Rich Spring Water + Ocean Saltwater Benefits
You’ll get double the health benefits as you take turns soaking in the healing mineral hot spring water and dunking into the cold ocean saltwater.
While the hot spring water is relaxing, you’re bound to get overheated at some point. Just steps away is the grand Pacific Ocean where you can cool off in the ocean water.
You skin and muscles will thank you.
Hot Water Beach New Zealand was just one of the many highlights from my 20 guided tour of New Zealand in 2019. Check it out for more New Zealand inspiration, and let me know if you have any questions about it in the comments below.
