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Whitianga

Top sights in Whitianga

Whitianga Highlights

Whitianga’s coastline features a mix of historical landmarks and accessible beaches. This selection includes Buffalo Beach, named for the 1840 shipwreck of the HMS Buffalo, and the Shakespeare Cliff Lookout, which provides panoramic views of Mercury Bay. Explore the white sands of Lonely Bay, framed by limestone cliffs, or visit Simpsons Beach for a quieter alternative to the main town front. These locations highlight the geological diversity and maritime history of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Whitianga Highlights — Map
A

Shakespeare Cliff Lookout

Provides 180-degree views of Mercury Bay and Whitianga. Named by Captain Cook in 1769, the cliff is accessible via a walking track from Ferry Landing.
B

Buffalo Beach

The main swimming beach in Whitianga, named after the HMS Buffalo, which was wrecked here during a storm in 1840.
C

Lonely Bay

A secluded white sand beach surrounded by limestone cliffs and pōhutukawa trees. Accessible via a steep walking track and stairs from the Shakespeare Cliff parking area.
D

Summit lookout

Elevated vantage point offering views over the Whitianga estuary, the town center, and the inner reaches of Mercury Bay.
E

Mercury Bay View Point

Overlooks the site where Captain Cook observed the Transit of Mercury in 1769. Offers views across the bay toward the Mercury Islands.
F

Simpsons Beach

Also known as Ohuka Beach, this 2-kilometer stretch of sand is located north of Whitianga and offers calm waters for swimming.
G

Private Viewing: Arnolds Place

Elevated viewpoint overlooking the southern end of Whitianga and the surrounding farmland.
Shakespeare Cliff Lookout
Drive
Buffalo Beach
Drive
Lonely Bay

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