Whitianga is a small town with fewer than 5,000 residents – pronounced "Fitianga", so don’t be confused! It’s the perfect base to explore some of the Coromandel’s most stunning beaches. Hop on the mini ferry to cross to the other side, then catch a shuttle bus along the coast to visit the area’s top beaches. Be sure to book the shuttle in advance. A highlight is the Hot Water Beach, a unique and fun spot where visitors dig into the sand to find natural hot springs – yes, it’s touristy, but definitely worth the experience!