Cathedral Cove, one of New Zealand’s most renowned landmarks, has secured a spot among the world’s top 50 beaches. It stands as the sole representative of Kiwi beaches in the rankings curated by over 1000 travel influencers and journalists. Topping the list is Trunk Bay in the US Virgin Islands, followed by Cala Mariolu in Sardinia, Italy, and Meads Bay in Anguilla.
The evaluation criteria for ‘The World’s 50 Best Beaches 2024’ encompass eight dimensions: distinctive features, wildlife presence, pristine environment, natural ambiance, accessibility to the water, frequency of calm waters, crowd levels, and the occurrence of idyllic conditions.
Cathedral Cove, earning the 46th position, received commendations from the authors for its exceptional attributes, and was described as follows:
ICONIC ARCH WITH PACIFIC VIEWS
Known for its naturally formed archway that stands proudly between two stretches of stunning beach, Cathedral Cove in the Coromandel is set in a remarkable natural environment. The iconic arch gives the cove its name and frames the spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Since the beach is only accessible by water via boat or kayak*, it remains a pristine and tranquil place to visit. The beach itself is made of golden sand and is lined with native pohutukawa trees, enhancing its scenic beauty. The surrounding cliffs are part of the Te Whanganui o Hei Marine Reserve, which helps protect the area’s abundant marine life, also making it a prime spot for snorkeling.
* Access to Cathedral Cove beach by walking track was closed from February 2023, due to damage during Cyclone Gabrielle. Before you visit, please read the Department of Conservation webpage to check whether the track is open.
The report even included a handy table of weather averages and a handy guide to having the best possible experience at Cathedral Cove:
Cathedral Cove Beach Weather Averages
| Month | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Rainy Days |
| January | 22 ° | 17 ° | 5.8 |
| February | 23 ° | 17 ° | 5.5 |
| March | 21 ° | 16 ° | 5.9 |
| April | 19 ° | 14 ° | 6.5 |
| May | 17 ° | 12 ° | 8.4 |
| June | 15 ° | 10 ° | 9.9 |
| July | 14 ° | 9 ° | 10.8 |
| August | 15 ° | 9 ° | 10.4 |
| September | 16 ° | 11 ° | 9 |
| October | 17 ° | 12 ° | 8.2 |
| November | 19 ° | 13 ° | 6.3 |
| December | 21 ° | 15 ° | 7 |
The Perfect Day at Cathedral Cove Beach
- WIND – Look for days where the wind will be blowing from behind the beach towards the water, as well as days with little to no wind.
- CLEAR SKIES – Try to visit during the drier months of the year to maximize your chances at seeing Cathedral Cove Beach at its best.
- CALM SEAS – During the windier months of the year the ocean is more likely to be rough and wavey, creating less than idyllic conditions.
- ROGUE WAVES – Cathedral Cove Beach faces open ocean, which can result in waves even if the wind is blowing out to sea.
Source: The World’s Best Inc. (2024, May 1). Cathedral Cove Beach. The World’s 50 Best Beaches. https://worlds50beaches.com/cathedral-cove-beach/