Herons Hangout guidebook
Sightseeing
A unique experience and a must do if you are in the area. Sample the hot springs simply by digging your toes into the sand at the correct spot, or go all out and dig your own spa pool to relax in. Note: this place can get very busy in summer so if you prefer it quieter, if possible, try to avoid it from say 10am to 5pm when the tour buses will be around - remembering that it is only accessible around low tide. Many guests have gone in the dark and said it was the best experience as it is by starlight so if this is the only 'low-tide' time for you, give it a go.
202 locals recommend
Hot Water Beach
A unique experience and a must do if you are in the area. Sample the hot springs simply by digging your toes into the sand at the correct spot, or go all out and dig your own spa pool to relax in. Note: this place can get very busy in summer so if you prefer it quieter, if possible, try to avoid it from say 10am to 5pm when the tour buses will be around - remembering that it is only accessible around low tide. Many guests have gone in the dark and said it was the best experience as it is by starlight so if this is the only 'low-tide' time for you, give it a go.
This is an iconic landmark that has also featured in the Narnia film. A beautiful walk through native bush and scenic tracks, enhanced by the spectacular Cove at the end of your journey.
41 locals recommend
Cathedral Cove
This is an iconic landmark that has also featured in the Narnia film. A beautiful walk through native bush and scenic tracks, enhanced by the spectacular Cove at the end of your journey.
If you are in the area long enough to add this to your list of things to do, it is well worth the effort. A beautiful walk through native bush, popular with many locals especially dog walkers. The track takes you to a lookout point offering amazing views over Cooks Beach and across to Whitianga.
34 locals recommend
Shakespeare Cliff Lookout
If you are in the area long enough to add this to your list of things to do, it is well worth the effort. A beautiful walk through native bush, popular with many locals especially dog walkers. The track takes you to a lookout point offering amazing views over Cooks Beach and across to Whitianga.
Food scene
Quality innovative dining on your doorstep. A unique dining experience that you can even walk to if you like to enjoy a drink without worrying about driving.
36 locals recommend
Go Vino
19 Captain Cook RdQuality innovative dining on your doorstep. A unique dining experience that you can even walk to if you like to enjoy a drink without worrying about driving.
This is a favourite of ours. Great pub grub with some of the best views in Whitianga and right next to the Ferry. Get a decent feed at a decent price and enjoy a Guinness or two at the same time.
28 locals recommend
Grace O'Malleys Irish Inn
9 The EsplanadeThis is a favourite of ours. Great pub grub with some of the best views in Whitianga and right next to the Ferry. Get a decent feed at a decent price and enjoy a Guinness or two at the same time.
Looking for the cheap and cheerful option? This is the place to go. On your doorstep and offering fish, chips, burgers and more.
9 locals recommend
The Frying Scotsman
27 Captain Cook RdLooking for the cheap and cheerful option? This is the place to go. On your doorstep and offering fish, chips, burgers and more.
Enjoy the relaxed open air atmosphere whilst enjoying some food, just a drink or both.
11 locals recommend
The Vessel
37 Captain Cook RdEnjoy the relaxed open air atmosphere whilst enjoying some food, just a drink or both.