Cathedral Cove makes World's Best 50 Beaches list

The beautiful white sand and rocky outcrops of Coromandel's Cathedral Cove beach have made the World's Best 50 Beaches list for 2025.

The annual list by The World's 50 Best Beaches website used insights from more than 1000 judges, Beach Ambassadors and World's 50 Beaches team exploring beaches all over the world.

Coming in at number 45 this year — one place higher than last year's 46th ranking — was New Zealand's very own Mautohe Cathedral Cove.

The website highlighted the "iconic arch" which gave the beach its name and framed the view of the Pacific Ocean.

"The beach is accessible by water via boat or kayak or by a walking trail, and it remains a pristine and tranquil place to visit," it said.

Judges also noted the "scenic beauty" of the landscape, with golden sand lined with native pohutukawa trees and surrounding cliffs of the Te Whanganui o Hei Marine Reserve.

Topping the list was Cala Goloritzé on Sardinia, Italy, with Entalula Beach in Palawan, Philippines second and Bang Bao Beach on the Thai island of Koh Kood third.

Destination Hauraki Coromandel marketing manager Megan Nunn said she was "incredibly proud to see Mautohe Cathedral Cove named among the world’s top 50 beaches for the second year running".

"This iconic location is not only a treasured jewel of Hauraki Coromandel but also a must-do experience for visitors to New Zealand.

"Its natural beauty, cultural significance, and place in the hearts of so many make this recognition truly special — reaffirming Mautohe Cathedral Cove’s status as one of the most spectacular and valued coastal destinations in the world," Munn said.

In December last year the walking tracks reopened following damage sustained during in the summer of 2022-2023, including by Cyclone Gabrielle.