Sunshine Bay Track

Out and back

Further along, you will reach Gilly’s Point. This is arguably the best photo spot on the entire trail. There is a perfectly placed wooden bench here, inviting you to sit for a moment and soak in the panorama. From this vantage point, you have an uninterrupted view of the Remarkables mountain range. If you time it right, you might even see the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship puffing its way across the lake, its white smoke contrasting beautifully against the dark water.

The ultimate destination is, of course, Sunshine Bay itself. Unlike the main Queenstown beach, which can get quite busy, Sunshine Bay is a tranquil, pebbly sanctuary. It feels secluded and peaceful. On a calm day, the water here is crystal clear, reflecting the mountains like a mirror. It’s the perfect spot to skip stones, enjoy a picnic, or simply sit and listen to the silence of the lake.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is a breeze. If you are staying in central Queenstown, you can actually walk to the start by following the lakefront path past the One Mile power station. If you’re driving, head out of town on the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road.

There is a dedicated Sunshine Bay car park located near the boat ramp where the track officially begins. This is free, which is a rare treat in Queenstown! However, because this is such a popular spot for locals, the car park can fill up quickly, especially on sunny weekends. If it’s full, you can try parking at the One Mile Car Park or near the Fernhill Roundabout and walking the short distance to the trailhead. Arriving early (before 10:00 am) or heading out for a late-afternoon "golden hour" stroll is usually your best bet for snagging a spot.

Wildlife Spotting

The Sunshine Bay Track is a fantastic place for birdwatching, as the pockets of native bush provide a sanctuary for many of New Zealand’s most iconic species. Keep your ears open for the melodic, bell-like call of the Korimako (Bellbird) or the complex, soulful song of the Tūī. The Tūī are easy to spot with their iridescent blue-black feathers and the distinctive white tuft under their throats.

You are also very likely to be visited by the Piwakawaka (Fantail). These cheeky little birds are known for following hikers along the trail. They aren’t being friendly just for the sake of it—as you walk, you kick up small insects from the leaf litter, and the Piwakawaka dart around you to catch a quick snack! If you look closely into the canopy, you might also spot the tiny Riroriro (Grey Warbler) or the bright-eyed Tauhou (Silvereye).

The best tip for wildlife spotting is to take a moment of silence at Gilly’s Point or down at the beach. When the human noise stops, the forest really comes alive.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

Queenstown is a four-season destination, and the Sunshine Bay Track changes beautifully with the calendar:

• Spring: The forest is at its most vocal, with birds nesting and the new growth making the bush look incredibly vibrant.
• Summer: This is the time for swimming! The water of Lake Wakatipu is famously "refreshing" (read: cold), but on a 30-degree January day, a dip at Sunshine Bay is unbeatable.
• Autumn: While the track itself is mostly evergreen native bush, the surrounding hillsides turn shades of brilliant gold and orange, making the views across the lake spectacular.
• Winter: The track is low-elevation, so it rarely sees heavy snow that lingers, making it a great option when the higher alpine trails are closed. The crisp, clear winter air often provides the best visibility of the snow-capped Remarkables.

• Water & Snacks: There are no water fountains on the trail, so bring a bottle with you. A small snack to enjoy at the bay makes the trip feel like a real adventure.
• Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the Otago sun is fierce. Wear a hat and apply sunscreen—the reflection off the lake can double your exposure.
• Dogs: This is a dog-friendly track! Please keep your furry friends on a lead to protect the ground-dwelling birds and to be respectful of other trail users.
• Weather: Be aware that the track is quite exposed to the lake. If there is a strong "nor'wester" wind blowing, it can get quite choppy and chilly on the points, so a light windbreaker is always a good addition to your pack.

Local & Regional Context

To the local Māori people, Lake Wakatipu is known as Whakatipu Waimāori. Legend tells of a giant ogre named Matau who kidnapped a chief’s daughter. He was eventually defeated and set on fire while he slept, and his body burnt a deep hole in the earth. The snow melted to fill the hole, creating the lake. It is said that Matau’s heart still beats at the bottom of the lake, which causes the "seiche"—a natural rhythmic rise and fall of the water level every few minutes. As you sit at Sunshine Bay, watch the water line on the pebbles; you might just see the "heartbeat" for yourself.

In more recent history, this area was vital for the early European settlers and miners who used the lake as their primary highway. The TSS Earnslaw, which you can often see from the track, has been puffing across these waters since 1912. Walking this track feels like walking through a living timeline of Queenstown, from the ancient native forest to the modern-day mountain bikers.

After the Walk

One of the best things about a 1.5-hour walk is that you’ve perfectly earned a treat afterward. Since you are only 3km from the centre of town, you are spoiled for choice:

• Bespoke Kitchen: Located just up the hill from the bay, this is a local favourite. Their organic coffee and wholesome menu (including brilliant vegan and gluten-free options) are the perfect fuel. In winter, their indoor fire is incredibly welcoming.
• Patagonia Chocolates: If you’ve finished your walk on a hot day, head to the lakefront for their award-winning ice cream. Their dark chocolate and sorbet flavours are legendary.
• Vudu Cafe & Larder: An iconic spot for a "long black" and a slice of something sweet. It has a vibrant, busy atmosphere that captures the heart of Queenstown.
• Atlas Beer Cafe: If you’re hiking with your dog or you’re a mountain biker, Atlas is the place to be. It’s tucked away at Steamer Wharf, offers great craft beers, and is famously dog-friendly.
• Fergburger: You can’t mention Queenstown food without the "Ferg." If you’ve worked up a real appetite, join the queue for a gourmet burger. It’s a rite of passage for any visitor!

The Sunshine Bay Track is a reminder that you don't need to climb the highest peak to find the best views. It’s a gentle, beautiful, and soul-soothing walk that showcases the very best of Queenstown’s natural landscape.

Patagonia Chocolates

3km away

Located on the lakefront, this spot is famous for its award-winning ice cream, handmade chocolates, and signature hot chocolates. Offers great views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables from its central Queenstown location.