Glendhu Bay

Glendhu Bay is a serene lakeside haven on the western shores of Lake Wānaka, where the Southern Alps meet calm, crystal-clear water. This is the kind of place that feels like a secret, even though it's just a short drive from town. The bay is dominated by a long, grassy reserve perfect for picnics, and the views across the lake to the peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park are nothing short of spectacular. It's a favourite for photographers catching the golden hour light on the water, and for families seeking a peaceful spot to swim or launch a kayak.

Highlights & What to See

• Glendhu Bay Reserve: The main attraction – a vast, open grassy area with picnic tables, barbecues, and a pebble beach. It's the ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon with a book and a view.
• Lake Wānaka shoreline: The water here is exceptionally clear and calm, perfect for a gentle swim or paddleboarding. Kayak rentals are sometimes available in summer.
• Mount Aspiring views: From the bay, you get a direct line of sight to the iconic pyramidal peak of Mount Aspiring/Tititea, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.
• Walking and cycling trails: The Glendhu Bay Track is a short, easy walk along the lake edge, and it connects to the longer Wānaka River Track network for cyclists.
• Glendhu Bay Motor Camp: A classic Kiwi holiday park right on the water, offering camping, cabins, and a great sense of community. Even if you're not staying, the camp store sells ice creams and basic supplies.
• That Wānaka Tree: While the famous lone willow is in town, the shores around Glendhu Bay have their own photogenic trees and driftwood that make for lovely compositions.

Suggested Time to Spend

Glendhu Bay is best treated as a half-day escape from Wānaka town. Most visitors spend two to three hours here – enough time for a leisurely picnic, a short walk, and a swim or paddle. If you're camping or staying at the motor camp, you could easily fill a full day with relaxing, reading, and exploring the nearby walking trails. For photographers, plan to arrive about an hour before sunset to capture the alpenglow on the mountains.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Roys Peak Track: A challenging but rewarding day hike with iconic views over Lake Wānaka. The trailhead is just a few minutes' drive from Glendhu Bay.
• That Wānaka Tree: The world-famous lone willow in Lake Wānaka is a 10-minute drive away, making for a quick photo stop on your way to or from the bay.
• Wānaka town: Enjoy the cafes, restaurants, and shops of Wānaka, plus the lakefront promenade and the cinema. It's a 15-minute drive from Glendhu Bay.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: The gateway to the park is just beyond Glendhu Bay, with access to tramping tracks, waterfalls, and the Rob Roy Glacier walk (45 minutes drive).
• Treble Cone Ski Area: In winter, this ski field is a short drive from Glendhu Bay, offering some of the best slopes in the region.

Please check official sources for current details.