Covetrip / Beach / Waihau Bay, East Cape approach, New Zealand

Waihau Bay

4.5 / 5 · 1 204 reviews Oceania Updated June 2026

Waihau Bay is at Waihau Bay, East Cape approach, New Zealand in Bay of Plenty, New Zealand.

Remote east-coast bay on the way toward East Cape. Shore type: sand. Use the map and nearby stays on this page to plan access and overnight options.

CoveTrip lists verified coastal places with practical details for travellers comparing New Zealand beaches.

At a glance

Water temperature

17 °C

Sea state

Moderate

Waves

1.16 m

Shoreline

site.features.sand

Region

Bay of Plenty

Country

New Zealand

Frequently asked questions

Where is Waihau Bay?

Waihau Bay, East Cape approach, New Zealand

What type of shore is it?

sand

Which region is it in?

Bay of Plenty, New Zealand

Is it good for swimming?

Check local conditions and lifeguard advice; NZ beaches vary with surf and currents.

How do I find nearby hotels?

See the stays section on this page for properties within driving distance.

7-day forecast

05/11

18°

14°

Wind 19 km/h

UV index 8

06/11

20°

14°

Wind 15 km/h

UV index 8

07/11

18°

17°

Wind 28 km/h

UV index 6

08/11

19°

16°

Wind 21 km/h

UV index 8

09/11

21°

15°

Wind 10 km/h

UV index 8

10/11

18°

17°

Wind 24 km/h

UV index 6

11/11

20°

16°

Wind 16 km/h

UV index 1

Best season to swim

Real historical monthly sea temperature averages.

Jan

21.2°

Feb

21.7°

Mar

20.9°

Apr

19.3°

May

17.6°

Jun

16.2°

Jul

15.1°

Aug

14.3°

Sep

14.7°

Oct

16°

Nov

18.4°

Dec

20.4°

Places to stay nearby

Waihau Bay

At a glance

Frequently asked questions

Where is Waihau Bay?

What type of shore is it?

Which region is it in?

Is it good for swimming?

How do I find nearby hotels?

7-day forecast

Best season to swim

Places to stay nearby

Te Kaha Beach Hotel

Amongst the Action

Airi Kainga

Banana Bach

The Best Hotels in Waihau Bay

Little Kowhai