Opito Bay - Image 1
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Opito Bay New Zealand

4.7
·126 reviews·Kerikeri, New Zealand

A tranquil Coromandel gem offering sheltered beaches, hidden coves, and scenic walks with stunning island views.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, shoulder seasons

Escape the summer rush

CrowdLow
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Opito Bay - Image 1

Opito Bay New Zealand

Best Time

Weekdays, shoulder seasons

Escape the summer rush

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil Coromandel gem offering sheltered beaches, hidden coves, and scenic walks with stunning island views.

4.7
(126 reviews)

"An absolute gem, peace, quiet and beauty in one place."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Shoes for Walks

Essential for exploring trails to hidden bays like Crayfish Bay.

🚗 Parking Patience

Summer can be busy; arrive early for parking, especially on weekends.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crayfish Bay Seclusion

Crayfish Bay Seclusion

Southern end of Opito Bay Beach

Discover a hidden paradise with turquoise waters, perfect for a peaceful escape. A true Coromandel gem.

Opito Point Historic Reserve

Opito Point Historic Reserve

Opito Bay Road

Hike to sensational views of the Mercury Islands, with historical insights along the way.

Pohutukawa-Shaded Beach

Pohutukawa-Shaded Beach

Opito Bay Beach

Enjoy a sheltered, pebbled beach with ample shade from iconic Pohutukawa trees, ideal for swimming.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Opito Bay is a haven for peace seekers. Visit during weekdays or shoulder seasons to truly soak in the quiet beauty. While summer brings a lively atmosphere, expect crowds and limited parking.

Plan Your Coastal Exploration

Pack sturdy shoes for coastal walks to hidden gems like Crayfish Bay. Check tide times for the best access and consider visiting on calm, sunny days for crystal-clear waters.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, shoulder seasons
Why
Escape the summer rush
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm waters, good light
Crowd
Medium
When
Calm, sunny days
Why
Crystal clear waters
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tucked away near Opito Bay, Crayfish Bay is a secluded spot perfect for a peaceful day in the turquoise waters. A must-visit when exploring the Coromandel 🤌💦 🚶‍♂️ Walking to Crayfish Bay From the Opito Bay Carpark: Head to the southern end of Opito Bay Beach. Find the Track: Look for a faint trail veering to the right, marked by a sign. Cross Fences: Use the provided steps to climb over two sm...
roadynz
239 likes • 28.1K views

👟 Sturdy Shoes for Walks

Essential for exploring trails to hidden bays like Crayfish Bay. Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Patience

Summer can be busy; arrive early for parking, especially on weekends. Reddit

Opito Bay NZ ❤️❤️ #opitobay #ninukwidhosari #newzealand #summerholidays #astungkara #alhamdulillah #greatful #celine #zara
ninukwidhosari
2.5K likes • 5.2K views
LOCATION ⬇️ 📌 Save this post and follow @nicoandsina for more New Zealand hidden gems, travel inspiration and off-the-map locations! 📍 Crayfish Bay, Coromandel 🚗 About 3 hours from Auckland, near Opito Bay 🥾 Walk to end of Opito bay and you will find a little path leading to this unreal spot. 🗓️ Best visited on calm, sunny days when the water turns crystal clear Crayfish Bay New Zealand is one ...
nicoandsina
378 likes • 29.6K views

☀️ Best Light for Photos

Visit on calm, sunny days for the most vibrant turquoise waters. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access to Gems

A short walk from Opito Bay leads to stunning spots like Crayfish Bay. Instagram

Left a piece of me here and carried sand and shells wrapped in a beautiful memory of this place 🏞️🌊💗 📍Opito Bay, New Zealand 🇳🇿 I tried a long continuous video shot with variable altitudes. A bit shaky but improving! 😊 #instareels #travelreels #reelsinstagram #holidayreel #aerialreels #naturereels #dronereel #dji #djivideo #aerialvideo #aerialview #dronestagram #dronelife #droneview #dronepilo...
messy.ah
0 likes • 769 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Shoes for Walks

Essential for exploring trails to hidden bays like Crayfish Bay. Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Patience

Summer can be busy; arrive early for parking, especially on weekends. Reddit

☀️ Best Light for Photos

Visit on calm, sunny days for the most vibrant turquoise waters. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access to Gems

A short walk from Opito Bay leads to stunning spots like Crayfish Bay. Instagram

📜 Historical Insights

Explore the Opito Point Historic Reserve for local history and great views. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(126 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Opito Bay is widely praised as an 'absolute gem' for its peace, quiet, and stunning natural beauty. Visitors love the sheltered beach, the opportunity for safe swimming and boating, and the charming Pohutukawa trees offering shade. While summer can bring crowds and parking challenges, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it a favorite spot.

"An absolute gem, peace, quiet and beauty in one place."

Keith Hartley

"The public toilet is very tidy"

roy emmanuel estampador

"Absolutely beautiful, it was a lovely walk from the car park to the cross. There was interesting signs to read along the path telling you about the history of the area. This is well worth a visit."

Pete Dell

What People Like

Peaceful and beautiful
Safe swimming waters
Shaded picnic spots

What People Dislike

Summer crowds
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Opito Bay is approximately a 3-hour drive from Auckland, located on the Coromandel Peninsula. The journey involves scenic coastal roads. Instagram

Public transport options to Opito Bay are limited. Renting a car or campervan is the most common and convenient way to reach this remote destination. Instagram

The roads leading to Opito Bay are generally well-maintained, but can be winding and narrow in places, typical of the Coromandel region. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at Opito Bay, particularly at the main beach area. However, it can become very busy during peak summer months, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Crayfish Bay is accessed via a walk from Opito Bay beach, not by car. The path is relatively short and well-marked. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opito Bay itself does not have an entry fee. It's a public beach and reserve, making it a free destination to enjoy. Reddit

Opito Bay is a natural attraction and is open to visitors at all times. However, facilities like public toilets are maintained during daylight hours. Reddit

No booking is required for general access to Opito Bay. It's a public space, so you can visit spontaneously. Reddit

Camping is generally not permitted directly on the beach. For specific camping regulations or nearby holiday parks, it's best to check with the local council or DOC (Department of Conservation). Reddit

Yes, the Opito Point Historic Reserve is accessible via a walk from Opito Bay beach. The reserve itself has historical signs and offers great views. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Opito Bay is perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating due to its sheltered nature. The nearby Opito Point Historic Reserve offers walking trails. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, Opito Bay is known for its safe and sheltered waters, making it ideal for swimming, especially on calm days. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The Opito Point Historic Reserve offers a rewarding walk with historical information and stunning views. A walk to Crayfish Bay is also highly recommended. Instagram+3

Opito Bay features a pebbled beachfront that is sheltered and often has calm, clear waters. It's lined with beautiful Pohutukawa trees offering shade. Reddit

Yes, Opito Bay is a popular spot for fishing and boating, with a boat ramp available at the far end of the beach. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Opito Bay is a more remote and natural destination, so there are no restaurants or cafes directly on-site. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks. Reddit

For dining options, you'll need to travel to nearby towns like Whitianga, which offers a range of cafes and restaurants. Reddit

Yes, Opito Bay is an excellent spot for a picnic. There are grassy areas with shade from Pohutukawa trees, perfect for enjoying a meal by the sea. Reddit

There are no dedicated public BBQ facilities at Opito Bay. If you wish to BBQ, it's best to bring your own portable setup and ensure you follow any local fire regulations. Reddit

It's advisable to pack all your food, snacks, and plenty of water, as amenities are scarce. This ensures a comfortable and enjoyable day out. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Opito Bay offers stunning coastal scenery. Key spots include Crayfish Bay for its turquoise waters, Opito Point for panoramic views of the Mercury Islands, and the beach itself with its Pohutukawa trees. Instagram+1

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for photography. Calm, sunny days also enhance the vibrant blue of the water. Instagram+1

Drone footage is possible and can capture incredible aerial views of Opito Bay and its surroundings. Always check local drone regulations before flying. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal landscapes. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors. Instagram

Yes, the Opito Point Historic Reserve has informative signs and the remnants of historical significance that can make for interesting photographic subjects. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Opito Bay is a fantastic destination for families looking for a safe and beautiful beach experience. The sheltered waters make it ideal for swimming, and the pebbled beach is great for building sandcastles or exploring. InstagramReddit The Pohutukawa trees offer plenty of shade for picnics, making it a comfortable spot for a family day out. Reddit

For a bit of adventure, the walk to Crayfish Bay is relatively short and rewarding for older children, offering a sense of discovery. Instagram+1 The Opito Point Historic Reserve walk, while involving steps, can be managed by active families, providing educational insights and stunning views. Instagram Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Campervan Explorers

Opito Bay is a perfect stop for those on a Coromandel road trip. Its scenic location and natural beauty make it a worthwhile detour. Instagram+1 While there are no dedicated campervan sites directly at Opito Bay, nearby towns like Whitianga offer holiday parks. Reddit The drive itself is part of the experience, with winding coastal roads offering glimpses of the stunning New Zealand landscape. Instagram

Be prepared for limited facilities, so stocking up on supplies before you arrive is essential. Reddit The opportunity to explore hidden spots like Crayfish Bay and enjoy the tranquility makes the journey to Opito Bay incredibly rewarding for road trippers seeking authentic New Zealand experiences. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Walkers

For those who love to explore on foot, Opito Bay offers delightful walking opportunities. The Opito Point Historic Reserve is a highlight, featuring a well-maintained track with historical markers and breathtaking views of the Mercury Islands. InstagramReddit The climb, though involving steps, is considered well worth the effort by many. Instagram

Beyond the reserve, the walk to Crayfish Bay is a must-do. It's a relatively easy trek from Opito Bay beach that leads to a secluded cove with crystal-clear waters. Instagram+2 These walks provide a fantastic way to experience the diverse coastal scenery and discover the hidden gems of the Coromandel Peninsula. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Opito Bay's Hidden Coves

Opito Bay is more than just its main beach; it's a gateway to secluded coastal treasures. A must-visit is Crayfish Bay, accessible via a short walk from the southern end of Opito Bay beach. Travelers describe it as an 'unreal spot' with 'turquoise waters' that are perfect for a peaceful day. Instagram+2 The walk involves a faint trail and crossing a fence, adding to the sense of discovery. Visiting on calm, sunny days is key to experiencing its full beauty. Instagram

Another significant exploration point is the Opito Point Historic Reserve. This moderately challenging walk takes about an hour and starts at the end of Opito Bay Road. It involves climbing approximately 196 steps up to Opito Point, rewarding hikers with 'truly sensational views' of the Mercury Islands. Instagram Along the path, you'll find interesting signs detailing the area's history, making it an enriching experience beyond just the scenery. Reddit

These excursions highlight Opito Bay's appeal for those seeking both natural beauty and a touch of adventure. The combination of accessible hidden coves and historical walking trails makes it a diverse destination for exploration. Instagram

The Opito Bay Beach Experience

The main Opito Bay Beach is a sheltered, pebbled stretch of coastline that offers a more relaxed experience. It's ideal for safe swimming, especially on calm summer days, and is a popular spot for boating due to the boat ramp located at the far end of the beach. Reddit The presence of moored boats adds a touch of local maritime life to the scene. Reddit

One of the most charming features of Opito Bay Beach is the abundance of Pohutukawa trees that line the grassy area next to the ocean. These iconic New Zealand trees provide ample shade, making it a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely afternoons. Reddit While the beach can get 'very busy in the summer,' which may restrict parking, the natural beauty and amenities like a 'very tidy' public toilet contribute to its appeal. Reddit

Many visitors describe Opito Bay as an 'absolute gem,' praising its 'peace, quiet, and beauty.' Reddit It's a place where you can truly reconnect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of a beautiful New Zealand beach. Instagram+1

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