Hahei is a fantastic place for touring because it offers a mix of stunning coastline, clear waters, and easy access to some of New Zealand’s most iconic sights. It’s especially well-suited for boat trips and snorkeling adventures, thanks to the calm, sheltered waters and abundance of marine life. We particularly like Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve: Snorkeling Boat Trip for its combination of underwater exploration and scenic boat ride, giving you a chance to see both the marine environment and the breathtaking coastline all in one go.
If you’re looking for a quick, fun experience, the Hahei Explorer Cathedral Cove Boat Tour offers a relaxed way to see sea caves and hidden bays, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike. For those wanting a full-day adventure, the Auckland: Cathedral Cove & Coromandel Small-Group Tour combines scenic drives with visits to multiple beaches and iconic spots, ideal for first-time visitors and curious explorers. Below, we go into detail about each of these top-rated experiences to help you decide which might be best for your trip.
1. Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve: Snorkeling Boat Trip
At number one, the Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve: Snorkeling Boat Trip scores a stellar 4.8 out of 5 based on 32 reviews, making it one of the most popular ways to explore Hahei’s underwater world. For around $93 per person, you get a 2-hour boat trip starting from Hahei Beach, where you’ll don warm wetsuits and high-quality snorkel gear, making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned swimmer.
This tour is unique because it combines a scenic boat ride with expert-guided snorkeling around the Marine Reserve, which is teeming with marine life, including large rays. The skippers are also seasoned scuba instructors, so they provide a safe, friendly environment. The boat stops near Cathedral Cove on the way to the snorkeling site, giving you a snapshot of this famous landmark from the water. Many reviewers highlight how close they felt to the marine life and the professional, enthusiastic guides. If you love underwater encounters and want a small-group experience, this tour offers excellent value. The only potential drawback is the short duration, but for that, it remains a top pick for a quick, memorable adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for snorkelers and marine life enthusiasts who want a guided, hassle-free experience with a mix of stunning scenery.
2. Hahei Explorer Cathedral Cove Boat Tour
Second on our list is the Hahei Explorer Cathedral Cove Boat Tour, which has a perfect 5-star rating from just 4 reviews. Taking only 1 hour and costing about $79 per person, this tour is a quick yet comprehensive introduction to the coastline. It departs directly from Hahei Beach, just minutes from Cathedral Cove, making it highly convenient for visitors staying locally.
This tour has been running since 1992, making it the original boat trip to Cathedral Cove. It explores 14 km of ancient volcanic coastline, including sea caves, blowholes, and hidden bays. What makes it stand out is its relaxed style, with knowledgeable guides providing lively commentary about the geology, history, and local marine life. Many guests comment on how close they got to sea caves and how the guides’ passion made the experience lively and engaging. It’s perfect for travelers looking for an authentic, no-frills adventure with great photo opportunities. However, because of its short duration, it’s less suited for those wanting an in-depth exploration but perfect for a quick highlight reel of the coast.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a brief but rich journey along the coastline with expert guides and excellent photo opportunities.
3. Auckland: Cathedral Cove & Coromandel Small-Group Tour
Finally, the Auckland: Cathedral Cove & Coromandel Small-Group Tour offers a full-day, 12-hour adventure for around $124 per person. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience that combines scenic drives, beach visits, and free time to explore on your own.
Starting from Auckland, this small-group tour takes you across the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, with stops at stunning beaches like Te Pare, Cooks Beach, and Lonely Bay. Of course, the highlight is visiting Cathedral Cove, where you can enjoy the iconic coastal scenery and walk along the soft sands. The small-group aspect ensures a more personalized experience, with guides sharing insights into the area’s geology and history. Guests frequently praise the breathtaking landscapes and the relaxed pace, which allows plenty of time for photos and exploration. The trip is best suited for active travelers comfortable with 12-hour days and looking for a more immersive experience beyond just a boat ride. Keep in mind, this is a longer excursion, so it’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive tour rather than a quick trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to see multiple highlights of the Coromandel with a knowledgeable guide in a small-group setting.
$124 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Hahei Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: Are you eager to snorkel and see marine life? Then the Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve Snorkeling Boat Trip is your best bet. Prefer a quick, scenic boat ride with a focus on caves and coastline? The Hahei Explorer Boat Tour offers that in a compact format. Want a full-day, in-depth exploration, combining coastal scenery with multiple beaches? The Auckland: Cathedral Cove & Coromandel Small-Group Tour suits active travelers seeking variety.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a guided small-group experience or a shorter, energetic trip. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Hahei offers a range of fantastic tour options that cater to different interests and schedules. If underwater wildlife gets you excited, the snorkeling trip promises an intimate look at marine life. For those who love dramatic coastlines and caves, the Hahei Explorer Boat Tour provides quick access to stunning sights. Travelers with a full day to spare should consider the Auckland day trip for a comprehensive experience.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early will help you lock in your preferred date and avoid missing out. With so many memorable ways to explore, Hahei makes it easy to find a tour that fits your style and interests—just be ready to enjoy some of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastline.