Queenstown Beach

Queenstown Beach is a top spot to catch the sun setting at the end of the day. During winter the sun rises from behind The Remarkables and often reflects on the snow covered Walter and Cecil Peaks turning them pink.

Queenstown Beach Sunset by the Lakefront

Queenstown Beach sunsets

Queenstown Beach sunsets

Bob's Peak

One of the most Instagrammable locations in Queenstown, the view from Bob’s Peak is quintessentially Queenstown. Hike the Tiki Trail to the top for sunrise, or take the Gondola for sunset.

Bob's Peak Sunset, Queenstown

Sunset from Skyline Queenstown

Sunset from Skyline Queenstown

Bennett's Bluff

One of the most beautiful roads in the world, the drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy has breath-taking views around every corner. Bennett's Bluff is one of the best places to pull over and catch the sun setting with views of Pig and Pigeon Island, Mt. Alfred, Glenorchy and Mt. Earnslaw. 

Bennett's Bluff Sunset on the road to Glenorchy

Bennett's Bluff

Bennett's Bluff

Queenstown Hill

The rewarding hike up to the Queenstown Hill basket of dreams is a quick way to get elevated views over Queenstown and the sun setting down the lake. Allow 2-3 hours return. 

Queenstown Hill sunset hike in spring

Queenstown Hill hike in spring

Queenstown Hill hike in spring

Coronet Peak

This location is easily accessed in summer, but in winter make sure you have chains and know how to use them! Coronet Peak is a great spot to capture the sun rising and setting with colours reflecting over the Wakatipu Basin. 

Sunsets from Coronet Peak

Sunsets from Coronet Peak

Sunsets from Coronet Peak

Lake Hayes

Lake Hayes is a photographer’s dream location, and on a still day the lake has mirror like qualities, making the reflections of the sun rising and setting doubly amazing. 

Sunsets over Lake Hayes in Autumn

Lake Hayes, @haydenwilliamsphotography on Instagram.

Lake Hayes, @haydenwilliamsphotography on Instagram.

The Lake Esplanade

If you’re staying downtown, this is one of the most accessible locations. Wander down the lakefront along the Lake Esplanade and the sun will rise from behind the Remarkables often creating incredible reflections on Lake Wakatipu. 

Queenstown sunset from lake esplanade

Sunrise from The Lake Esplanade. Image @steven.hamou on Instagram

Sunrise from The Lake Esplanade. Image @steven.hamou on Instagram