This is definitely one of my top hikes on the North Island, I absolutely love it. When I did it, the weather was a solid 10/10, so I really hope you get the same sunshine during your visit!
First things first, the drive to the northern tip of the Coromandel Peninsula is a bit of an adventure, super windy and along gravel roads. Once you make it to Fletcher Bay campsite (after saying hi to all the cows you’ll pass along the way), slap on some sunscreen, put on a hat (the walk is pretty exposed), and you’re good to go.
The full trail is 10 kilometres one way, connecting Fletcher Bay and Stony Bay, so you’re looking at a 20-kilometre return walk. If you're up for the challenge, go for the full distance, but if you’re more like me and prefer a more relaxed hike, you can choose where to turn around. As soon as you climb up the initial hill, you're greeted with incredible coastal views, rolling hills, and crashing waves, it's such a beautiful and peaceful area.
The first stop along the way is Poley Bay, about 3.8 kilometres in. I stopped here, and it was super unique, with lots of shells and cool rocks scattered around. If you're feeling good to go, continue on for another 2.3 kilometres to the next stop which is a lookout (total of 5.1 kilometres in). From there, it’s another 4.9 kilometres to Stony Bay
If you have the chance definitely do this trail even if it's just a small portion of it, the rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush forests are stunning.