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Queenstown
4 km
1 hour 30 minutes
50 metres
If you are looking for a way to escape the high-octane energy of Queenstown's town centre without having to drive for hours, the Sunshine Bay Track is your perfect local secret. It is one of those rare trails that manages to feel remote and wild, yet remains incredibly accessible for almost everyone. Whether you are a local taking the dog for a morning run or a visitor wanting to see the "other side" of Lake Wakatipu, this 4-kilometre out-and-back journey is a quintessential Otago experience.
The walk begins just a few minutes’ drive from the bustle of the CBD, heading out toward Glenorchy. As soon as you step onto the well-maintained path near the Sunshine Bay Boat Ramp, the noise of the road fades, replaced by the gentle lapping of water against the shore and the rustle of native beech trees. The terrain is what we locals call "gentle undulations"—there are no heart-pumping vertical climbs here, just a pleasant 50-metre elevation gain that offers enough variety to keep things interesting without leaving you breathless.
As you wind your way along the shoreline, the track oscillates between pockets of lush, cool native bush and open sections where the canopy thins to reveal staggering views of the turquoise lake. The path is generally wide and smooth, though you will encounter the occasional rocky patch or exposed root, so while you don’t need heavy-duty mountaineering boots, a sturdy pair of sneakers or walking shoes is a smart choice.
What makes this walk truly special is the sense of immersion. On one side, you have the vibrant green of the New Zealand forest; on the other, the deep, shifting blues of Lake Wakatipu. It is a dual-use track, so don't be surprised to see a few mountain bikers sharing the way. The atmosphere is consistently friendly and laid-back, embodying the relaxed "mountain town" vibe that Queenstown is famous for. For families with kids, the track is a winner—it’s short enough to keep them engaged, with plenty of "treasure" to find along the way, from interesting rocks to hidden waterfalls.
The Sunshine Bay Track might be short, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to scenic payoffs.
About 10 minutes into your walk, keep an eye out for a signposted side track. A quick detour leads you to Two Mile Creek Falls. This charming cascade is tucked away in a mossy grotto, feeling like a scene straight out of a fairytale. It is especially impressive after a bit of rainfall, and the air here is always a few degrees cooler—a refreshing treat on a hot summer afternoon.
Free parking is available at the Sunshine Bay car park, located just off the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, near the Sunshine Bay Boat Ramp. Alternatively, hikers can park at the One Mile Car Park or the Fernhill Roundabout parking area and walk to the trailhead. Parking can become crowded during peak times, so arriving early is advisable.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
3km away
A popular cafe known for its wholesome and diverse menu, including excellent vegan and gluten-free options, and organic coffee. Features a cosy fireside in winter and a garden courtyard for warmer days, with custom bike stands for cyclists.
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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.
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.
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.
Queenstown is a four-season destination, and the Sunshine Bay Track changes beautifully with the calendar:
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.
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:
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.
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
Zosterops lateralis
Small bird with distinctive white eye-ring. Commonly seen in flocks, feeding on insects, fruit, and nectar.
Best time: Year-round
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.
3km away
An iconic, award-winning cafe in central Queenstown, offering modern cafe food with fresh, seasonal, and local produce. Known for its excellent coffee and a vibrant atmosphere, with ample indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Lake Wakatipu.
3km away
An iconic Queenstown institution famous for its gourmet burgers, attracting visitors from around the world. Be prepared for a queue, but the burgers are widely considered worth the wait.
3.5km away
A local favourite tucked away at Steamer Wharf, offering a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere with a wide selection of craft beers, delicious pub grub, and fantastic lake views. Known for its support of the local mountain bike community and dog-friendly outdoor seating.