An iconic white sandy beach supporting a vibrant summer holiday community. A crescent shaped beach with shallow water is an ideal walking, swimming or kayaking destination. Cooks beach has Shakespeare Cliffs on the west and the sheltered Purangi Estuary to the east. The area is rich in history with Kupe landing in 950 AD and Captain Cook in 1769. There are historic pa (village) sites and walking tracks. Sheltered bays lead to the sandy beaches of Front Beach and Flaxmill Bay with native bush reserves offering trails and shade from the summer heat.
Purangi Regional Reserve has toilets and a boat ramp launching into the calm estuary water.
TIP: Walkers will be intrigued by the Shakespeare Reserve walkway down to Lonely Bay where white sand is replaced by crushed shells and massive limestone boulders.
Getting to Cooks beach
GETTING THERE
Driving from Whitiangi travel 35km around the picturesque harbour. The 3 km white sandy beach is in the locality of Hahei. Hahei is a starting point for many visitors intent on exploring Cathedral Cove. Check best bits travel tips Guide to best beaches for more Coromandel beach destinations. Cooks Beach is signposted on the aerial route State Highway 25.
You have the option of catching the Whitianga Ferry to Ferry Landing and walking. It is a moderately challenging 1 ½ hour walk with outstanding views of the Coromandel Peninsula. Ferry Landing, Stone Wharf is the start for several coastal walks to nearby beaches. The walking tracks involve a number of steep steps and descents.
