One of the true hidden gems and still off the tourist path is the stunning coastal town of Onemana not too far past Whangamata Beach heading north.

Onemana Beach is one the Coromandel's best beaches for its white sand, epic surf, stunning scenic walking tracks (including the Peninsula Lookout and the Onemana Walkway to Octopus Bay) and of course it's quiet laid back vibe. You can visit Onemana Beach and be one of the only people there. There are New Zealand Native Dotterel nesting on the beach which you can watch from a distance, rocky outcrops at each end with huge native Pohutukawa trees, and it is perfect for surfing and snorkelling.

There are beautiful compositions from Onemana Beach looking out to the Alderman Islands, and if you have a drone the coastline looks incredible from above. Take the walk over to Octopus Bay where there's a small beach and enjoy the Castaway moments where you feel like you're on a deserted island!

Onemana Beach works best at sunrise and golden hour in the morning.