When I first heard about Cathedral Cove, I wasn't entirely sure what the fuss was all about. You see the pictures on social media – crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and that famous rock arch – and you think, “It looks nice, but is it really that special?” Well, spoiler alert: it is. And the best way to experience it? A proper cathedral cove tour that lets you explore the area from all angles – whether by land or sea.

The First Time I Took the Walk

The first time I went to Cathedral Cove, I opted for the classic walk from the car park. It’s about a 40-minute walk each way, and while that might sound like a bit of effort, the path takes you through some beautiful bushland and offers stunning views along the way. If you’re not a huge fan of hiking, don’t worry – it’s a pretty relaxed walk, suitable for all fitness levels.

Personal anecdote: I remember starting the walk late in the afternoon, just as the sun was beginning to dip. The light filtering through the trees gave everything a golden hue, and I could hear birds singing in the distance. It was one of those moments that makes you stop and appreciate being in nature. By the time we reached the cove, we were just in time to catch the sunset, which made the whole place look even more magical.

Tour Options for All Types of Travellers

If walking isn’t really your thing, don’t worry – there are plenty of other ways to explore Cathedral Cove. One of the most popular options is a guided tour, and there are a few different styles to choose from.

• Walking tours: These are perfect if you want a bit of commentary along the way. Local guides will give you insights into the history and geology of the area, which adds a bit more depth to your visit. Plus, they know all the best spots for photos.
• Boat tours: This is probably my favourite way to experience Cathedral Cove. You get a completely different perspective from the water, and the boat takes you to some hidden spots you’d never see on foot.
• Kayak tours: If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a paddle and hit the water. Kayaking around Cathedral Cove is a brilliant way to get up close to the rock formations, and it’s an active way to enjoy the day.

Top tip: If you’re going for a tour, especially in peak season, book in advance. The Coromandel can get pretty busy, and you don’t want to miss out on your preferred option.

Boat Tours – The Best of Both Worlds

For me, the Cathedral Cove boat tour was a game changer. I’d already done the walk and thought I’d seen it all, but seeing it from the water gave me a whole new appreciation for the place. The boat tours typically start from Hahei Beach and take you along the stunning coastline, with stops at various bays and rock formations.

Personal anecdote: I’ll never forget the first time we pulled up to Cathedral Cove from the boat. The scale of the cliffs and the arch seemed so much more impressive from the water. We got right up close, and the skipper even pointed out a few sea caves that aren’t visible from the shore. At one point, we saw a group of seals lounging on the rocks – not something you’d spot if you were just walking!

The Geology and History Behind the Cove

One of the things that really adds to the experience of a Cathedral Cove tour is learning about the history and geology of the area. The rock formations you see today were shaped over millions of years by volcanic activity and erosion. It’s fascinating to think about how long it took for nature to create something so beautiful.

Top tip: If you’re on a guided tour, don’t be shy about asking questions. The guides are super knowledgeable and always happy to share more details about how the landscape came to be.

Hidden Gems Along the Way

One of the great things about taking a tour is that you get to discover some hidden gems that most tourists miss. The guides or skippers often take you to secret beaches, hidden caves, and even some snorkelling spots. On our boat tour, we stopped at a tiny beach that was only accessible by water. We hopped off the boat for a quick swim, and the water was crystal clear – it felt like we were in a private paradise.

Personal anecdote: I wasn’t planning on swimming that day, but the water looked too inviting to resist. I didn’t have any swimwear with me, so I just went in with my shorts – a spontaneous decision that ended up being one of the best parts of the trip. Sometimes, those unplanned moments are the most memorable.

Cathedral Cove – More Than Just a Pretty Picture

At the end of the day, Cathedral Cove is more than just a spot for an Instagram photo (although, let’s be honest, it’s one of the most photogenic places you’ll ever visit). Whether you’re walking, kayaking, or taking a boat tour, the real magic lies in experiencing it for yourself. You’ll feel a sense of peace as you stand on the beach, surrounded by towering cliffs and the sound of the ocean lapping at the shore. It’s one of those places that sticks with you long after you’ve left.