An easily accessible coastal walk with epic views of the turquoise cove and the incredible Lake Wakatipu.
For those looking for a quick and easy dog-friendly coastal track with stunning lake views, then Bob’s Cove Track Queenstown is the most bang-for-hiking-buck track in town.
I say that because it’s only a twenty-minute walk for views that are arguably more impressive than other popular tracks like Queenstown Hill.
Below, I’ll explain how to get to Bob’s Cove, hiking the circuit loop, and what to expect at this amazing location.
Where is Bob's Cove?
Bob's Cove is located approximately 14 km from Queenstown near the sharp elbow bend on Lake Wakatipu. Being within such close proximity to town makes it the perfect location for an afternoon trip or stop along the way to Moke Lake.
Location: Bob's Cove Carpark
How to Get to Bob's Cove Track
Like most places worth visiting in New Zealand's South Island, Bob's Cove track is best accessible by car.
Depending on traffic around the lakefront, it should take only about 15-20 minutes to reach. The drive to Bob's Cove follows one of the most scenic drives in the world; the Glenorchy to Queenstown Road. There's only one road to Glenorchy, so follow signs there and keep an eye out for the sign to Bob's Cove car park on the left.
If it's your first time driving this route, you're in for a treat.
I always use DiscoverCars to get the best deals in New Zealand. Or, if you want a camper, I've had good experiences with both Spaceships & Travellers Autobarn.
Is there a bus from Queenstown to Bob's Cove?
Unfortunately, there isn't a direct public bus service that runs from Queenstown to Bob's Cove as of 2024. This means that to get here from Queenstown without your own transport, you'll need to either stick out a thumb or rent a bike.
Bob's Cove Hike to Picnic Point Lookout
- Distance: 2 km return
- Difficulty: Easy
Bob's Cove Track starts at the car park and descends into a bush trail, leading to Bob's Cove Beach.
The wide cove is protected from most winds due to the raised hillside and surrounding treeline making it a great place to relax. You can swim here or save it for after the hike. Depending on the weather this might be a refreshing cool down or an ice bath!
You will then continue along the water's edge and reenter the trees where you'll be immersed by the sounds of the native Pīwakawaka. After a few minutes, you'll reach the famous wooden jetty which is a perfect spot for photos.
After you've got the shot follow the signs to "Picnic Point", and walk for approximately 20 minutes until you reach the top of Bob's Cove Lookout, where you'll have reached what I think is one of the best coastal viewpoints on Lake Wakatipu.
You'll then continue down the same trail back to the carpark. However, if you're looking for more adventure then you can alternatively take the trail on the right at the bottom of Picnic Hill and continue on along the 6.8 km return Twelve Mile Delta trail.
After swimming and hiking around Bob's Cove, drive to 12 Mile Delta for an epic LoTR-inspired camping trip.
Bob's Cove History
Along the Bob's Cove track, you'll notice an old rubble pile of bricks that is actually a historic lime kiln. This was one of many from the 1800s, where the local Lime Company used Bob's Cove as a quarry to process the limestone.
Accommodation Near Bob's Cove
I've written a separate, accommodation guide to the best places to stay in Queenstown– make sure to check it out get a great deal! Otherwise, below is a quick summary of my top picks.
1.
An incredible penthouse apartment that features an outdoor terrace with a barbecue and hot tub. It is situated 200 m from the Skyline Gondola and Luge.
2. Family Home Group Pick
Great for families due to its epic 5-bedroom option and a bonus is the trampoline and outdoor hot tub. And just an 8-minute drive from Downtown Queenstown.
3. Black Sheep Backpackers Budget
A fun-filled hostel that features pod beds, an outdoor hot tub, and located within walking distance from central Queenstown. Free bike rental is available.
3. Spaceship Camper Alternative
I cruised around in style in a Spaceship rental car. These are great for budget adventure travelers since you’ll get your accommodation and transport ticked off in one neat package.
You'll never really be short of things to do in Queenstown. But, if you're on your way back to Queenstown and you've got your own set of wheels, why not check out Moke Lake on the way back.
For more great ideas, check out this list below!
- 36 Amazing Places to Visit in the South Island - my most comprehensive travel guide that is useful to help you find the best places to visit on your trip to the South Island
- Top Things to Do in Queenstown: Explore Queenstown's top hikes, epic adrenaline activities, and hidden gems.
- South Island's Best Hikes: I hiked over 50 trails in New Zealand. Here's my curated list of the most breathtaking hikes across New Zealand's South Island.
- Arthur's Pass Travel Guide: Dive into the heart of Arthur's Pass with my guide to the best places to visit.
- Best Mount Cook National Park Hikes: A hiking guide to the most scenic trails beneath Mount Cook.
- Best Views of Mount Cook: Discover the top spots to witness New Zealand's Aoraki peak in all its glory.
- Epic Things to do at Milford Sound: Explore 21 unique ideas get inspired to visit Milford Sound!
- Catlins' Hidden Gems: Uncover the Catlins' best-kept secrets, from waterfalls to wild coastlines.
- Accommodation Resources: Plan where to stay in Queenstown and discover the amazing Tekapo Lake Hotels.
