Crayfish Bay at Cathedral Cove features rocky ledges and extensive kelp forests. This marine site offers depths ranging from 2 to 13 metres, with an average of 8 metres. Snorkellers can observe a variety of marine life, including snails, which are very common, alongside uncommon sightings of Common Sydney Octopus, Red Comb Star, abalone, Pink Snapper, and crabs. Rarer species such as the Knobbed Triton, tube worms, and bluebottles are also recorded. The site is accessed from the shore and is suitable for intermediate snorkellers. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of moderate currents, potential surf, and boat traffic in the area.

Old Man Rock, located off Cathedral Cove, offers a combination of open reef and cave diving. The site features depths between 15 and 30 metres with visibility ranging from 10 to 30 metres. Divers encounter an overhead environment within the cave sections, which requires precise buoyancy control and careful air management. Due to the depth and the nature of the terrain, this site is suited for intermediate divers with an Advanced Open Water certification. Access is by boat only, and divers should be aware of potential surface chop that can affect re-boarding. A torch is recommended for navigating the cave sections.

Otama Beach, located near Cathedral Cove, features a white-sand shoreline with rocky outcrops and tide pools at its western end. This site offers shallow reef systems that are accessible from the shore, making it suitable for beginners. Conditions are generally calm, though snorkellers should be aware of potential surf and the presence of sharks in the area. Water temperatures fluctuate between 15C and 22C throughout the year. Toilets are available for visitor use at the beach. This site provides a straightforward snorkelling experience for those looking to explore coastal reef formations in the Coromandel region.

Ohinau offers diverse underwater topography ranging from shallow reefs to deep wall drop-offs. The site is characterised by broken rock and boulder terrain, featuring large cracks, crevices, and several swim-throughs. The south-western side is defined by abundant seaweed, while the north-eastern face consists primarily of bare rock with occasional weed edges. Depths range from 5 to 30 metres. This site requires boat access and is suitable for intermediate divers due to strong currents and deep sections. Typical dives last 45 minutes, with water temperatures fluctuating between 15C and 21C throughout the year.

South Sunk is a pinnacle and reef site located off Whitianga. The topography features boulders adorned with red, yellow, and grey sponges, jewel anemones, and nudibranchs. Divers can explore depths reaching 30 metres. Conditions are variable, with currents and boat traffic present, making this site suitable for intermediate divers. Access is by boat only. Water temperatures range from 15C to 21C throughout the year. Due to the depth and potential for currents, divers should be prepared for changing conditions during their visit.

Danger Rocks at Cathedral Cove is a complex marine site featuring a reef that drops to 30 metres, alongside pinnacles, canyons, and walls. The topography includes large valleys with sandy bottoms, deep cracks along the walls, and numerous swim-throughs. Flat-topped rocks are covered in kelp and seaweed. The site reaches depths between 8 and 56 metres, with an average of 10 metres. Access is by boat only, and conditions involve variable currents and potential surge. Divers should be aware of sea urchins. This site is suited for intermediate divers.

Whenuakura Island features a collapsed volcanic blowhole that creates a sheltered lagoon. Access to this interior space is via a narrow sea cave located on the south-eastern side of the island. Situated 600 metres from the shore, the site requires boat access and is rated highly for snorkeling. Conditions vary, with moderate currents and potential surf near the entrance. Water temperatures fluctuate between 15C and 22C throughout the year. Species recorded around this area include long-nosed fur seals, eagle rays, common Sydney octopus, green moray, wrasses, clown doris, southern rock lobster, snake eel, scorpionfish, pink snapper, blue maomao, goatfish, crabs, and deepwater burrfish.

Onemana Northern Rocks is a shore-entry snorkeling site located at the northern end of Onemana Beach near Whitianga. The site features a series of rocky inlets and reef structures that provide a local alternative to busier coastal areas. Conditions at this site vary, and snorkelers should be aware of potential surf and rip currents in the area. Water temperatures range from 15C to 22C throughout the year. Due to the nature of the entry and potential water movement, this site is best suited for intermediate snorkelers. Parking and toilet facilities are available near the beach access point.