Glendhu Bay Wanaka
A serene lakeside haven in Wanaka, offering a popular holiday park, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventure...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden colors abound
Glendhu Bay Wanaka
Best Time
Golden colors abound
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene lakeside haven in Wanaka, offering a popular holiday park, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventure.
"The only NZ campsite I come back to every. single. year. 
Book Campsite Early
Popular Glendhu Bay campsite books up fast! Reserve your spot, especially for powered sites, months ahead. :incoming_envelope:
Explore the Trails
Enjoy smooth, well-maintained trails for walking and biking, suitable for all levels. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lakeside Campsite
Glendhu Bay Holiday Park
A beloved campsite offering stunning lake views and a peaceful retreat. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
+2
Glendhu Bay Track
Starts near the campsite
Scenic walking and biking trails with diverse terrain and beautiful bay and mountain vistas.
Wildlife Spotting
Around the bay and lake
Home to various bird species like tūī and bellbirds, plus ducks and swans.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Accommodation Early
+2Embrace the Outdoors
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Campsite Early
Popular Glendhu Bay campsite books up fast! Reserve your spot, especially for powered sites, months ahead.
Explore the Trails
Enjoy smooth, well-maintained trails for walking and biking, suitable for all levels.
Pack for All Weather
New Zealand weather can change quickly. Bring layers, even in summer, for a comfortable experience. :cloud:
Wildlife Viewing
Keep an eye out for native birds like tūī and bellbirds, plus ducks and swans.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Campsite Early
Popular Glendhu Bay campsite books up fast! Reserve your spot, especially for powered sites, months ahead.
Explore the Trails
Enjoy smooth, well-maintained trails for walking and biking, suitable for all levels.
Pack for All Weather
New Zealand weather can change quickly. Bring layers, even in summer, for a comfortable experience. :cloud:
Wildlife Viewing
Keep an eye out for native birds like tūī and bellbirds, plus ducks and swans.
Scenic Drives
The drive to Glendhu Bay offers stunning autumn colors and beautiful lake views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Glendhu Bay is widely loved for its stunning lakeside setting and the popular holiday park, offering a peaceful escape with beautiful scenery and wildlife. While generally praised, some visitors note the need to book accommodation well in advance due to its popularity.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Glendhu Bay is easily accessible by car from Wanaka, located about a 10-15 minute drive along the Wanaka-Mount Aspiring Road. The drive itself is scenic, with opportunities to stop and admire the views.
Public transport options directly to Glendhu Bay are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or consider a taxi or ride-sharing service from Wanaka.
The road to Glendhu Bay is generally well-maintained and paved, making it suitable for all types of vehicles. During autumn, the road is lined with beautiful golden trees.
Yes, cycling to Glendhu Bay is a popular option for many visitors. The route offers beautiful scenery along Lake Wanaka.
Glendhu Bay is located in Wanaka, which is about an hour's drive from Queenstown. It's a popular day trip destination from Queenstown.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Glendhu Bay itself is a public area and generally free to access for enjoying the scenery and walking. However, if you plan to stay at the Glendhu Bay Holiday Park, there are associated camping fees.
Glendhu Bay is an open natural area and is accessible at all times. The Glendhu Bay Holiday Park has specific check-in and check-out times for its guests.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book the Glendhu Bay campsite in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and school holidays, as it is a very popular spot.
The holiday park offers powered and unpowered sites for campervans and tents, as well as cabins and family rooms that can accommodate 2 to 13 people.
Glendhu Bay has hosted significant events, such as the Airbus Helicopters Kiwi Rendezvous, which brought together over 40 helicopters.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking and biking on the Glendhu Bay Track, wildlife spotting, photography, picnicking, and simply relaxing by the lake. It's also a great spot for bouldering.
Yes, the Glendhu Bay Track offers well-maintained trails suitable for both walking and mountain biking, with options for various skill levels.
Absolutely! Families love Glendhu Bay for its safe lakeside environment, playground at the holiday park, and opportunities for kids to run free and explore.
While the lake is beautiful, swimming conditions can vary. It's advisable to check local conditions and safety guidelines before swimming.
Expect stunning views of Lake Wanaka, surrounding mountains, and the picturesque bay. The landscape is particularly beautiful during autumn with golden foliage.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire bay offers incredible photo opportunities. Look for shots of the lake with mountains in the background, the iconic Wanaka Tree (though not directly in Glendhu Bay, it's nearby), and the golden hues during autumn.
Yes, both sunrise and sunset can offer dramatic lighting over the lake and mountains, creating beautiful photographic moments. The gloomy skyline can also create unique moods.
Autumn is particularly stunning with the vibrant fall colors. However, the clear blue waters and mountain backdrops are beautiful year-round.
While Glendhu Bay itself is the main attraction, the surrounding natural landscape provides endless photographic subjects. The nearby Wanaka Tree is a famous landmark.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the water. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 The gentle lakeside setting is perfect for family picnics and easy walks. The Glendhu Bay Track has sections suitable for younger walkers, and the chance to spot local birds adds an educational element to the visit. Consider booking a cabin or a powered site at the holiday park for added convenience. The park's facilities, like the kitchen and BBQ areas, make self-catering easy for families.
The overall relaxed atmosphere of Glendhu Bay ensures a stress-free and enjoyable experience for everyone. 🚴♀️ Cyclists and Hikers
Bring your mountain bike or hiking boots and explore the diverse terrain. The smooth paths are ideal for hardtail bikes, and the views are consistently rewarding.
📸 Photographers
+1 Capture the expansive views of Lake Wanaka framed by majestic mountains, especially during the golden light of sunrise and sunset. Autumn provides a particularly vibrant palette with its rich fall colors. Don't miss opportunities to photograph the local birdlife, adding a dynamic element to your portfolio.
The Glendhu Bay Track itself offers numerous vantage points for capturing the essence of this picturesque location. A wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the grand scenery. :camerawithflash:Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Glendhu Bay Holiday Park: A Traveler's Haven
+2 The park offers a range of accommodation options, from powered and unpowered sites for campervans and tents to comfortable cabins and family rooms, catering to diverse needs and budgets. Facilities at the park are designed for convenience and enjoyment, including BBQ areas, a kitchen, a lounge, laundry facilities, and a playground. The fast WiFi is also a welcome amenity for many.
The spaciousness of the park allows for a relaxed atmosphere, where children can play freely and adults can unwind amidst beautiful natural surroundings. +1This holiday park is more than just a place to stay; it's an experience. Its popularity means booking in advance is crucial, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot in this sought-after destination.
+1Exploring the Glendhu Bay Track
As you traverse the track, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka, the surrounding mountains, and the serene bay itself. The diverse terrain ensures an engaging experience, whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging ride.
The track is also a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, with opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way. Many visitors recommend the Glendhu Bay Track for its scenic beauty and the quality of the trails. It's an essential activity for anyone visiting the area who enjoys the outdoors and wants to experience the stunning Central Otago landscape up close.
Seasonal Beauty and Wildlife
The clear, crisp air and the vibrant foliage make for unforgettable scenic drives and photography opportunities. +1Beyond the visual splendor, Glendhu Bay is a haven for native wildlife. The area is home to various bird species, including the melodious tūī and bellbirds, as well as common water birds like ducks and swans.
Observing these creatures in their natural habitat adds another layer of richness to the Glendhu Bay experience, making it a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're drawn by the dramatic seasonal colors or the chance to connect with nature, Glendhu Bay offers a consistently beautiful and engaging environment for visitors.
+2
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit