Blue Lake Lookout Green Lake View
Witness the breathtaking contrast of Blue Lake and Green Lake from an elevated lookout, with accessible walking tracks around Blue Lake.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant colors are best seen
Blue Lake Lookout Green Lake View
Best Time
Vibrant colors are best seen

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the breathtaking contrast of Blue Lake and Green Lake from an elevated lookout, with accessible walking tracks around Blue Lake.
"Majestic views to the Blue Lake and Green Lake, spectacular serene place."
📸 Capture the Colors
Visit on a clear day to see the distinct blue and green hues of the lakes.
🚶♀️ Easy Loop Walk
The Blue Lake loop is a short, serene walk perfect for families.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Blue Lake Lookout
Elevated viewpoint
Majestic panoramic views of both Blue Lake and Green Lake, showcasing their unique colors.

Blue Lake Walking Track
Around Blue Lake
Enjoy a serene loop walk, less than an hour, with opportunities for swimming.

Color Contrast
From the lookout
Witness the striking difference in water colors due to varying bedrock and vegetation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Accessing the Lakes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rotorua - what are some cool things to do there that don't break the bank?
📸 Capture the Colors
Visit on a clear day to see the distinct blue and green hues of the lakes.
🚶♀️ Easy Loop Walk
The Blue Lake loop is a short, serene walk perfect for families.
🏊 Swim in Blue Lake
Blue Lake is accessible for swimming, offering a refreshing experience.
🚗 Small Carpark Available
There's a small car park and public toilets nearby for convenience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Colors
Visit on a clear day to see the distinct blue and green hues of the lakes.
🚶♀️ Easy Loop Walk
The Blue Lake loop is a short, serene walk perfect for families.
🏊 Swim in Blue Lake
Blue Lake is accessible for swimming, offering a refreshing experience.
🚗 Small Carpark Available
There's a small car park and public toilets nearby for convenience.
🚁 Drone Views Recommended
Some visitors suggest a drone would offer incredible aerial perspectives.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the majestic views of Blue and Green Lakes from the lookout, especially on clear days. The easy walking track around Blue Lake and the opportunity to swim are also highlights. However, some are disappointed by the limited access to Green Lake and its less vibrant appearance from the shore.
"This is a elevated lookout offering majestic views to the Blue Lake and Green Lake.
There are a few steps to reach the lookout point, but have handrails which make it easy enough.
Well marked sign boards are there, which describe the history and geology of the lakes.
On a clear sunny day, one can easily see the difference in the colours of the water due to difference in composition of the bedrock and vegetation in the lakes.
This is also a part of the Blue lake walking track.
There is a small carpark and a public toilet nearby.
Highly recommended."
Raghav Abbhi
"Beautiful lake. Been there at 5pm and nobody in the car park. Breathtaking views. Bit of stairs down to the lake. Definitely coming back."
PATHUM DADIGAMUWA (PATO)
"Nothing special really. From the viewpoint, you can see both lakes.
The Green Lake is privately owned, so no access."
Prijs Beer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Blue Lake Lookout is a short drive from Rotorua. Follow the signs towards the lakes. There is a small car park available near the lookout point.
Public transport options to Blue Lake Lookout are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access the site. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.
A small car park is available at the lookout. It can fill up during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
The main lookout point has a few steps with handrails, which might be manageable for some. Access to the walking tracks around Blue Lake may vary in accessibility.
The lookout is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times mentioned, but it's best to visit when there's sufficient light to appreciate the views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees to visit Blue Lake Lookout. It's a free public viewpoint.
The Blue Lake walking track is also free to access. Enjoy the natural beauty without any cost.
Yes, swimming is permitted in Blue Lake. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip on warmer days.
Green Lake is privately owned, and access is restricted. You can view it from the lookout, but you cannot walk around it or access its foreshore.
The lookout is accessible during daylight hours. It's recommended to visit when there's ample natural light to enjoy the scenery.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary attraction is the elevated viewpoint offering stunning views of both Blue Lake and Green Lake, highlighting their distinct colors.
The loop around Blue Lake is a relatively short walk, typically taking less than an hour to complete.
Yes, there are public toilets located nearby the small car park.
Signboards at the lookout provide information about the history and geology of the lakes, explaining the differences in their colors.
Crowds can vary. Visiting on a clear sunny day might mean more visitors, while late afternoons or weekdays could be quieter.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the lake colors. A clear, sunny day is essential to see the color differences.
You can capture panoramic shots of both lakes from the lookout, close-ups of the Blue Lake's water, and scenic views along the walking track.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A polarizing filter can help enhance the water colors on a sunny day.
Getting clear photos of Green Lake can be challenging due to private ownership and bush cover. The lookout offers the best vantage point.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The opportunity to swim in Blue Lake can be a highlight for children on a warm day. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the water and on any elevated viewing platforms.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
This spot is perfect for those looking to experience Rotorua's natural beauty on a budget. The main expense would be transportation to get there. The serene environment and beautiful views offer great value for zero cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Lakes' Colors
Green Lake, on the other hand, appears more muted and less distinctly green from the lookout. Its color is influenced by the presence of algae and sediment. Importantly, Green Lake is privately owned, which significantly limits visitor access. While you can see it from the lookout, you cannot walk along its shores or swim in it, a point of disappointment for some visitors.
On a clear, sunny day, the contrast between the two lakes is most pronounced. The well-marked signboards at the lookout provide detailed explanations of the geological and ecological factors contributing to these unique colors, making it an educational as well as scenic experience.
Navigating the Blue Lake Walking Track
The track winds through native bush, providing a peaceful environment. It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local flora and fauna. While the main lookout offers a grand vista, the walking track allows for a more intimate connection with the lake and its surroundings.
Visitors can also take advantage of the lake's accessibility for swimming. The clear waters of Blue Lake are inviting on a warm day. Remember to bring appropriate gear if you plan to swim, and always be aware of your surroundings and any local advisories.
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