Fantail Bay campsite is like another planet, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Rebekah Duffin, a Coromandel Department of Conservation community relations ranger, knows the camp well and says it is very peaceful and quiet, with the closest town of Colville 40 minutes away.
"It's nestled among pohutukawa, far removed from shops and roads and towns."
She says it is a great place to relax, with big shady trees and the beach across the road. All the campsites are sheltered under trees, which Duffin likes.
"There really isn't much better than that."
A lot of families and retired people stay at the camp, says Duffin.
"Fantail Bay doesn't attract the rowdies."
She says the same people often come back each year.
"I think that's because it's so peaceful. There's a lot to do if you want to, but you also don't have to do anything at all."
Visitors can fish, dive and swim. There's a ramp from which to launch boats. There are also walks around the area.
Duffin says there is a great, but steep, tramping track from the camp which leads to a spot with outstanding coastal views. She thinks it is a great place to stay.
"It's cheap, it's got atmosphere, it's just an amazing place to camp."
Duffin says the camp's busiest time of year is Christmas and New Year, when it is hard to get a booking.
She recommends people book online and, if they want to come for Christmas this year, they'd better book at least three months in advance.
CAMPER'S INFO
Getting there: From Coromandel take the Colville Rd for 22km until the Whangaahei Junction, then turn left and follow the Port Jackson Rd for 28km. Unsealed road access from Colville.
CAMPSITE INFO:
Campsite fees: Adults $9, children $2, under 5 free.
18 tent sites
11 caravan/motorhome sites
Maximum number: 100
No dogs
No fires
Amenities: Tap water, toilets, rubbish bin, cold showers.
Book at: booking.doc.govt.nz or see doc.govt.nz/parks for more information.