Waiau Falls
A stunning, easily accessible waterfall and swimming hole on the scenic 309 road, perfect for a quick dip or photo op.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for a swim
Waiau Falls
Best Time
Perfect for a swim
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning, easily accessible waterfall and swimming hole on the scenic 309 road, perfect for a quick dip or photo op.
"Beautiful waterfall and swimming hole a two-minute stroll from Road 309!"
🚗 Drive Carefully on 309 Road
The 309 road is partially gravel and narrow. Drive with caution and enjoy the scenic route!
🏊♀️ Take a Refreshing Swim
The clear waters of the swimming hole are perfect for a cool dip on a hot day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Waterfall
Roadside
A stunning, easily accessible waterfall cascading into a clear swimming hole. Perfect for a refreshing dip or a photo.
Swimming Hole
Base of the falls
Take a dip in the cool, clear waters of the natural pool beneath the falls. A perfect way to cool off on a warm day.
Kauri Grove
Short walk from parking
If parking is full, this nearby grove offers a chance to see impressive Kauri trees and is a pleasant walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Easy Access, Big Reward
Road Conditions & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Coromandel suggestion
🚗 Drive Carefully on 309 Road
The 309 road is partially gravel and narrow. Drive with caution and enjoy the scenic route!
🏊♀️ Take a Refreshing Swim
The clear waters of the swimming hole are perfect for a cool dip on a hot day.
Where to stay and what to do in Coromandel?
📸 Capture the Beauty
This picturesque spot is ideal for photography. Don't forget your camera!
🅿️ Limited Parking
Parking is limited. If full, park at Kauri Grove and enjoy a short walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully on 309 Road
The 309 road is partially gravel and narrow. Drive with caution and enjoy the scenic route!
🏊♀️ Take a Refreshing Swim
The clear waters of the swimming hole are perfect for a cool dip on a hot day.
📸 Capture the Beauty
This picturesque spot is ideal for photography. Don't forget your camera!
🅿️ Limited Parking
Parking is limited. If full, park at Kauri Grove and enjoy a short walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Waiau Falls is a highly praised natural attraction, lauded for its stunning beauty and incredible accessibility, being just a short walk from the road. Visitors love the opportunity to swim in the clear waters and appreciate its free entry. Some note that parking can be limited and the 309 road requires cautious driving.
"The beautiful Waiau Falls! Literally just a stone’s throw from the road! And absolutely free!!! Fresh water but you can go for a swim if you want. Only about 5 mins drive away from Coromandel Town."
WAL51
"On 22/8/2024, we celebrated our 9th Wedding Anniversary at Waiau Falls.
It took us only around 3 minutes from the area where we parked our car to Waiau Falls. On that day, there was nobody there. We could enjoy the tranquility and peacefulness there.
We highly recommend you to visit there and take photos there."
Addie Lane
"Beautiful waterfall and swimming hole a two-minute stroll from Road 309! There is a sign marking the spot, as well as parking for a handful of cars. We were here on two consecutive days. The first day it had been rainy heavily, and the falls were out of their banks, ferocious, and a little scary in their speed and power. The next day, the falls was back to a more normal flow, with lovely clear water instead of the brown runoff from the day before. I was glad we had the opportunity to see it both days — it was beautiful in both cases."
Marsha Russell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waiau Falls is located off the scenic 309 road between Coromandel Town and Whitianga. The road is partially gravel and can be narrow, so drive with caution. There is a sign marking the spot and parking available.
The 309 road is partially gravel and narrow, requiring careful driving. It's generally accessible by most vehicles, but be mindful of conditions, especially after rain.
Waiau Falls is a short drive, approximately 5 minutes, from Coromandel Town.
Yes, Waiau Falls is conveniently located on the 309 road, which connects Coromandel Town and Whitianga, making it a great stop between the two.
The road is partially gravel and can be narrow. It's advisable to drive slowly and be aware of other vehicles and potential hazards.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Waiau Falls is absolutely free to visit and enjoy.
Waiau Falls is a natural attraction and is open to visitors at all times.
There's no need to book tickets as Waiau Falls is a free, natural attraction.
The walk from the parking area to the falls is very short (1-3 minutes) and generally easy, making it quite accessible.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms directly at Waiau Falls, but it's a natural spot for a quick visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Yes, the beautiful waterfall feeds into a clear swimming hole, perfect for a refreshing dip.
The walk from the roadside parking to Waiau Falls is very short, typically only 1-3 minutes.
Visiting in the morning or on weekdays can offer a more tranquil experience with fewer people. Summer afternoons are great for a swim.
Bring swimwear if you plan to swim, a towel, and your camera to capture the scenic beauty.
Crowds can vary. Weekends and peak summer afternoons might be busier, while weekdays and mornings tend to be quieter.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The main waterfall itself and the swimming hole offer picturesque views. Experiment with different angles from the bank.
Early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light, but the falls are beautiful in various conditions. Consider the flow after rain for dramatic shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check local bylaws and be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment.
For silky water effects, use a slower shutter speed. A tripod is recommended for stability, especially in lower light.
The contrast between the lush forest and the cascading water is a key feature. Capturing the reflections in the pool can also be stunning.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with other family-friendly stops along the 309 road, like The Waterworks, for a full day of exploration. The accessibility makes it stress-free for parents, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural beauty without a strenuous trek.
🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trippers
Make sure to factor in the 309 road's conditions – it's scenic but requires careful driving. If parking is full, the nearby Kauri Grove offers an alternative parking spot and a chance to see impressive native trees, adding value to your stop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the 309 Road
Along the 309 road, you'll also find other attractions like The Waterworks and the Kauri Grove. These stops make the drive a destination in itself, perfect for a day trip or a leisurely exploration. The road's partially gravel surface means caution is advised, especially for those not accustomed to such terrain.
Many visitors recommend taking their time on the 309 road to fully appreciate the surroundings. It's a chance to escape the busier tourist spots and discover the quieter, more natural side of the Coromandel. The drive itself is an adventure, with opportunities to pull over and soak in the forest atmosphere.
The Magic of Waiau Falls
Visitors often remark on the tranquility and peacefulness of the area, especially if visiting during off-peak times. The sound of the water and the surrounding lush greenery create a serene atmosphere. It's a place where you can easily spend a few minutes or a couple of hours, depending on whether you're just passing through or planning a swim and a picnic.
The falls can change dramatically with rainfall. Some visitors have experienced them as powerful and ferocious after heavy rain, while at other times, they are a gentle cascade. This variability adds to the unique charm of Waiau Falls, offering different perspectives on its beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit