Located in Coromandel, New Zealand, Crayfish Bay is a true, hidden gem.
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Wondering where to find Crayfish Bay or if it’s worth visiting? Discover why we believe it’s an unmissable destination, alongside essential information about this pristine, white stone bay.
CRAYFISH BAY
The Coromandel Peninsula is famed for its incredible beaches, from Pauanui to the iconic Cathedral Cove and secluded New Chums. With gems like Crayfish Bay, it’s a must-visit.
Nestled at the southern tip of the Kūaotunu Peninsula, along the east coast of the Coromandel you’ll find this spot. Nestled right next to Opito Bay this is a secluded, pristine white stone bay with stunning blue water.
Crayfish Bay boasts a rocky terrain and cliffs, creating a paradise for thrill-seekers to explore. So, if you’re a fan of cliff jumping this is definitely a place for you. As the beach itself is quite rocky and the space remaining is snug the cliffs are the best place to sit and relax. This is also an ideal vantage point for soaking up the sun or enjoying a leisurely picnic against the backdrop of panoramic views.
During my visit, the elevated viewpoint from the top of the hill became my personal favourite. It offers an outlook across Crayfish Bay and the coast.
THE JOURNEY
Located two hours from Thames (92km), three hours from Auckland (214km) or if you’re heading from Whitianga (the nearest town), expect about a 40 minute drive (26km).
In order to get to Crayfish Bay you’ll initially follow Pacific Coast Highway. This then turns into Kūaotunu Wharekaho Road–a winding road through the hills.
Once you arrive at Kūaotunu–a laid back coastal town and one of the gateways to venture further north (if you opt to explore more of the Coromandel), watch for the turn onto Black Jack Road. Black Jack Road is paved to a certain point but a large section of this drive is gravel. Even though it’s a slow drive it means you’ll get to soak up the views along the way–they are stunning!
The journey to reach here might be long, but it’s definitely worth it. Also along the way, you’ll find various places to stop, including Waitaia Track, Lukes Kitchen, and Ōtama Beach.
Once you arrive at Opito Bay, you’ll be able to take the short walk to Crayfish Bay.
LOCATION
To get to Crayfish Bay from the carpark, walk along Opito Bay Beach until you spot a goat’s trail veering to the right. Follow this path through farmland for roughly 5 minutes and you’ll find yourself at its shores.
PARKING
Parking is quite easy to navigate as all you’ll need to do is drive to the end of Opito Bay Road (before it turns into Moore Crescent). Here you’ll see a large grass area for parking which is the closest you’ll get to the entrance of Crayfish Bay.
For the exact location click here for Google Maps.
If you opt for a longer walk there are plenty of parking spaces along Opito Bay Road.
OPITO BAY
If you have opted to visit Crayfish Bay, and hadn’t heard of Opito Bay before, you certainly have now! Opito Bay is one of my favourite places in the Coromandel. For everything you need to know about this magical area I’ve got you covered.
ACCOMMODATION
If you’re wanting to stay near Crayfish Bay there are plenty of choices for accommodation. For a place like this Airbnb is usually my first port of call but if you’re wanting to discover a diverse range of accommodations across the Coromandel region, catering to various preferences, from backpackers to bespoke stays click here.
While there are no campsites near Crayfish or in Opito Bay, Kuaotunu Campground is conveniently situated a 20-minute drive away. And it comes highly recommended.
In this post, we’ve unveiled Crayfish Bay, a hidden gem in the breathtaking Coromandel. Whether you’re craving a thrilling cliff jump or a tranquil sunbathing spot with panoramic views, this pristine bay has something for everyone.
For more places to stop off on your Coromandel adventure check out my post here.