Queenstown is world-famous for adventure, stunning scenery, and bustling tourist spots—but as a local, I know there’s so much more beyond the crowds. From lakeside escapes and boutique cafés to vineyard adventures and wellness retreats, these 10 experiences showcase the authentic charm of Queenstown and the spots locals love.
1. Hidden Lakeside Gems – Sunshine Bay & Secret Jetties
Queenstown has more lakeside spots than most visitors realise. Sunshine Bay offers a peaceful retreat for picnics, reflection, or photography, while smaller jetties and coves along Lake Wakatipu—like Earnslaw Park and hidden nooks off Marine Parade—offer quiet swimming and picnic areas away from the crowds. This combined lakeside experience lets you enjoy the lake in multiple ways
Local tip: Morning or late afternoon visits are best for peace and photography. Bring a picnic or swimmers to make the most of these spots.
2. Queenstown Marina – Lakeside Food & Wine
Queenstown Marina is a hidden gem for food lovers, offering lakeside dining, boutique wines, and relaxed vibes:
- Norka’s Kai Café – Pet- and boat-friendly, serving fresh sandwiches, bagels, smoothies, and gluten-free/vegan desserts. Perfect for a casual coffee or light bite by the water.
- Italian Way – Authentic wood-fired pizzas, calzones, polenta fries, and cold beers in Shed 10. A taste of Italy with stunning lake views.
- Fino Wine Bar – Seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients and a curated wine list. Ideal for lunch, dinner, or sunset drinks.
- Wet Jacket Wines – Wine tastings showcasing boutique wines, with a portion supporting conservation projects. Located in Shed 3, overlooking Lake Wakatipu.
Local tip: Arrive before sunset to enjoy the marina’s peaceful atmosphere and spectacular reflections.
3. Gibbston Valley E-Bike & Wine Tour
Explore Gibbston Valley vineyards on an e-bike. Cruise through rolling vineyards, stop at boutique wineries for tastings, and enjoy breathtaking mountain views.
Local tip: Book your tour in the morning to avoid the peak wine-tasting crowds.
4. Dorothy Browns Cinema – A Cosy Cultural Experience
Located in charming Arrowtown, Dorothy Browns Cinema combines boutique movie screenings with a gin bar and bookstore. It’s a cosy, intimate experience that many tourists miss.
Local tip: Check their schedule for classic or themed movie nights.
5. Queenstown Gardens – Frisbee Golf and Lakeside Strolls
While the Queenstown Gardens are well-known, most visitors overlook the free frisbee golf course nestled among the pine trees. Bring your own disc or rent one nearby and enjoy a leisurely game surrounded by beautiful scenery. The Gardens also offer peaceful lakeside walks, botanical displays, and stunning views of Lake Wakatipu.
Local tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the course without crowds and capture the best light for photos.
6. Lake Hayes – Scenic Walks and Tranquil Waters
Lake Hayes offers a 2–3 hour loop trail with reflective waters and mountain views. Suitable for all fitness levels.
Local tip: Early morning or late afternoon gives the best light for photos.
7. Onsen Hot Pools & Aluume – Thermal Bliss with a View
For a truly relaxing experience, consider visiting Onsen Hot Pools or Aluume Wellness:
- Onsen Hot Pools: Private thermal pools with retractable roofs overlooking the Shotover River canyon.
- Aluume Wellness: A curated wellness retreat featuring the Bathe Hot Pools and the Thermae Floating Sauna, designed to blend seamlessly with the surroundings for a tranquil, restorative experience.
Local tip: Both are popular; book ahead to secure your preferred time. Sunset sessions are particularly magical.
8. The Boatshed Café – Lakeside Dining with a View
Situated on Lake Wakatipu’s edge, The Boatshed Café is perfect for breakfast or brunch. Quiet and scenic, it’s a great escape from the busier waterfront cafés.
Local tip: Try their freshly baked pastries and coffee; go before 10am to avoid the crowds.
9. Moke Lake – Serenity Amidst Nature
Moke Lake is about 20 minutes from Queenstown and perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or hiking the lakeside track. Its mirrored waters make it ideal for photography.
Local tip: Bring your own kayak or paddleboard; rentals are limited.
10. Arrowtown Chinese Settlement – A Slice of History
The Arrowtown Chinese Settlement preserves 19th-century miners’ huts and gardens. A quiet spot with great photo opportunities and insight into local history.
Local tip: Visit on a weekday morning for the quietest experience.
Why Choose Element Escapes?
At Element Escapes, we offer comfortable, self-contained, and thoughtfully designed holiday homes at unbeatable value. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a long-term stay, our properties are strategically located and fully equipped to ensure a memorable Queenstown experience. Plus, with direct booking discounts, enjoying Queenstown affordably has never been easier.
💻 Book directly with us today for exclusive savings and a hassle-free stay.
📍 Explore our properties: Click Here
Element Escapes for your Queenstown Holiday
Element Escapes have solidified themselves in the accommodation arena and here’s why; they care about the world they live in, they want you to have…
13 Reasons Why You MUST Visit Queenstown
Queenstown is one of the most popular visitor destinations in New Zealand. A quick glance at the stats shows the scale of Queenstown’s desirability…