5 Great Queenstown Picnic spots

Our 5 great Queenstown picnic spots have been carefully chosen to give you that special Queenstown mix of wonderful views and easy accessibility, and  all are perfect for relaxing in one of New Zealand's most stunning regions.

If you’re in Queenstown and you’ve got a takeaway coffee in one hand and a picnic blanket in the other, you’re doing it right. The best part? You don’t have to drive far to find our 5 great Queenstown picnic spots. Some are in central Queenstown, but at most, are within 15 minutes drive.

Below are our favourite picnic locations in or near Queenstown, with a rundown on why they are so special, where they are, and what to bring.

The 5 Best Picnic Spots in Queenstown (Within 15 Minutes of Town)

1) Queenstown Gardens (Classic, Easy, Perfect for Everyone)

Why it’s one of the best picnic spots in Queenstown:

This is the “can’t-go-wrong” picnic spot. The Queenstown Gardens sit right on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, with loads of grassy space, big old trees for shade, and plenty of little corners that feel private even on a busy day. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed picnic without committing to a hike or a long drive. There's a wonderful variety of native and exotic plants, and some beautiful seasonal displays. And there's lots more to do here after your picnic.

Picnic benefits:

• Super close to central Queenstown (walkable from the CBD).
• Great mix of sun and shade (huge for summer picnics).
• Toilets nearby and easy paths (pram, bike and kid-friendly).
• Gorgeous lake views with mountain backdrops for photos.
• Easy add-ons: the famous disc golf course, or a game of bowls at the historic Queenstown Bowling Club, or a game of tennis. Kids love the ice arena which has bumper cars, ice discos and ice skating.

Best for:

Families, couples, anyone who wants an effortless “Queenstown postcard” picnic, with some family add-ons.

Address:

Queenstown Gardens
Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

2) Sunshine Bay (Quiet Lakefront Vibes, Locals’ Favourite)

Why it’s one of the best picnic spots in Queenstown:

Sunshine Bay feels like you’ve slipped out of town—even though you’re only minutes away. It’s calmer than the main waterfront and gives you that “hidden gem” feel with a pebbly beach, gentle water, and dreamy evening light. 

Sunshine Bay sits on the left hand side of the road to Glenorchy, and is only five to ten minutes drive from central Queenstown. You can also walk or ride there on the Sunshine Bay Track, and once you arrive, there's great views of Lake Wakatipu and Cecil Peak.

Amenities are limited to a couple of benches, a bathroom, and a jetty. Best to bring a picnic rug with you, relax and enjoy the views.

Picnic benefits:

• Quick drive from Queenstown (under 10 minutes).
• Beautiful lake edge for a swim or paddle on warm days.
• Quieter than central lakefront areas.
• Amazing golden-hour picnic spot (hence the name).
• Great for a “bring a book and breathe” kind of afternoon.

Best for:

Anyone wanting a more peaceful picnic near Queenstown without going far.

Address:

Sunshine Bay
Sunshine Bay Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

3) Bob’s Cove (Short Walk to a Stunning Spot)

Why it’s one of the best picnic spots in Queenstown:

Bob’s Cove is a Queenstown favourite for a reason: a short, easy walk leads you to little coves, clear water, and lookout points that make you feel like you’re way deeper in nature than you actually are. It’s the kind of place where a simple picnic suddenly feels like an “experience.”

Picnic benefits:

• Beautiful sheltered bays and crystal-clear water.
• Short walking track means you can “earn” your picnic (without suffering).
• Great mix of lakeside spots + elevated viewpoints.
• Often calmer water than more exposed lakefront areas.
• Fantastic for photos and a more nature-forward vibe.

Best for:

Picnic + short walk combo, small groups, couples, visitors who want “easy adventure.”

Address:

Bob’s Cove Track (starting point)
Bob’s Cove, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand
(Located off Glenorchy–Queenstown Road)

4) The Village Green (Central Location by a stream)

Why it’s one of the best picnic spots in Queenstown:

The Village Green is right in the Queenstown central business district. It's relatively small, and intersected by Horne Creek, but has some nice grassed areas and is terraced, providing various seating spots. Kids love exploring the creek, and being so central, it's close to lots of cafes and take away food outlets like Erik's. There's also display boards with information about the region's history. It's popular with locals at lunchtime, so time your visit to avoid feeling crowded.

Picnic benefits:

• Easy access and lots of grassed spaces.
• Lovely flat seating areas and a bubbling brook. Kids love spotting the ducks (and sometimes trout) in the stream.
• Great for family groups.

Best for:

Families, groups, anyone wanting a calm, spacious picnic spot in the town centre.

Address:

Bounded by Athol, Ballarat and Camp Streets, central Queenstown.

5) Frankton Beach (Sunset Picnics + Easy Parking)

Why it’s one of the best picnic spots in Queenstown:

Frankton Beach is a go-to when you want a no-fuss picnic with big views and a classic Queenstown sunset—without the central crowds. It’s also super convenient if you’re staying in Frankton, arriving via the airport, or just want easy parking and a straightforward lakefront setup.

Picnic benefits:

• Easy parking and simple access from Frankton (minimal walking required).
• Great sunset views across Lake Wakatipu.
• Nice swimming spot in summer.
• Often less hectic than the main Queenstown bay.
• Short drive to large shopping centres at Five Mile and Remarkables Park if you forgot something (or want dessert).

Best for:

Sunset picnics, quick and easy lakefront hangs, travellers staying in Frankton.

Address:

Frankton Beach, Queenstown Trail, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

5 great queenstown picnic spots - Quick Tips for the Perfect Queenstown Picnic (So You Enjoy It More)

• Bring a layer: Queenstown weather loves a plot twist—even on sunny days.
• Pack wind-proof items: clips for napkins, a heavier blanket, and containers that seal well.
• Go early or go late: midday is busiest. Morning picnics and sunset picnics are magic.
• Leave no trace: these places are beautiful because people look after them.

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