Waikawau Bay DOC Campsite

Waikawau Bay DOC Campsite is the largest Department of Conservation campground in New Zealand, with capacity for over 600 people across an expansive site nestled beside a stunning white sand surf beach on the northern Coromandel Peninsula. The campground backs onto native bush and sits between two estuaries and a significant wetland, creating a setting that feels genuinely remote despite being accessible by road from Coromandel township. Around a third of all campers here are children, making it one of the most family-friendly DOC camping destinations in the country.

The campground offers both unpowered and powered sites. Unpowered sites are spread across the main camping area on the beach side of the road, while powered sites (21 available) are located in Zone 4 for caravans and campervans with a current electrical warrant. Facilities include long-drop toilets and cold showers throughout the site, with drinking water available from taps (boil before use). There are no kitchen facilities, laundry, or Wi-Fi. This is a pack-in, pack-out campsite with no rubbish collection. Bookings must be made online before arrival, and check-in runs from 2pm to 7pm with gates closed from 8pm to 7:30am.

The beach at Waikawau Bay is excellent for swimming, surfing, fishing, and kayaking, with a tidal lagoon that provides safe swimming for younger children at low tide. The Matamataharakeke Walkway starts right from the campground, leading through native bush, while the famous Coromandel Walkway is another 20km further north. New Zealand dotterel and variable oystercatcher breed north of the campsite, so keep your distance from roped-off nesting areas. Access is via unsealed roads from Coromandel township, about 22km on Colville Road then a right turn onto Port Charles Road. The nearest shops and fuel are in Colville or Coromandel town.