Heading to Queenstown and want to check out Bob’s Cove? You have come to the right place.
Over the years this spot has become more and more popular with the bright blue water bringing in the crowds. Bob’s Cove is that place I tell all my friends and family to visit while they are in Queenstown.
You can expect the most amazing views and the walk is pretty easy as well. I think it’s bit a win, win.
Having done the walk up to the lookout many times, I know all the best ways to get the most out of your visit to Bob’s Cove and how to miss all the crowds. By the end of this blog you will be sorted and ready to go and enjoy Bob’s Cove for yourself.
Let’s get into it.
Track details
Distance – 3 kilometres
Time – allow at least 60 minutes
Elevation – 50 metres
Difficulty – Easy
Track style – Loop track
Toilets – Yes, near the the main beach area
Parking – Yes
Is Bob’s Cove Worth Visiting?
In my opinion Bob’s Cove is one of the most beautiful locations in Queenstown. The water is some of the bluest I have ever seen, its usually quiet and you are always surrounded by mountains.
While it is fairly well known by locals, many tourists visiting Queenstown have no idea it exists. It’s a shame some people don’t get to see this incredible spot, however it does mean that it is never too busy and is a perfect escape from the fast pace in the main town.
Bob’s Cove is definitely worth visiting and will be a highlight of your time in Queenstown.
How to get to Bob’s Cove
Bob’s Cove is is located a 15 minute drive from Queenstown. You will need your own car to get here as there is no public transport.
The drive here is fairly straight forward. Leaving from Queenstown, you will head along the Lake and towards Glenorchy. Continue to follow the road as it twists and turns for around 14 kilometres. The entrance to the carpark is on the left had side of the road, just past the small residential area.
It does pop up quick so keep and eye out for it. Once you have parked up, the track starts at the far end of the parking area.
Parking
There is a carpark at Bob’s Cove but it is very small and get filled up pretty quickly. To guarantee a place you will want to try and get there earlier in the day. I usually try get there before 8:30 and its never to busy, however, during the summer and public holidays, there will be a lot more people.
Bob’s Cove Walk
There are a few small walks you can do at Bob’s Cove but the main ones take you down to the lake, the wharf and up to the view point.
Starting at the far end of the carpark the track makes its way through the native forest and down to the main beach. There are a few little gaps in the bush that lead to the edge of the lake along the way if you are interested.
This part of the walk is flat and easy and will take about 10 minutes to get to the beach. From here you can continue along the track towards the wharf and lookout.
Bob’s Cove Wharf
One of the two iconic photo spots at Bob’s Cove, is the wharf. From here, you get an awesome close up view of the electric blue water in the lake with the snow capped mountains in the background.
The track leading up to the wharf is flat and is a very easy walk. To get here, continue along the main track. You will come to a spot where you can turn off, but just keep going straight.
The signs along the walk will direct you as well. The wharf is easy to spot as it come almost directly off the main track.
If you are brave enough, the water is deep enough to jump off the end. Yes, it is absolutely freezing but that is all part of the fun.
Bob’s Cove Lookout
To get up to the lookout, continue along the track past the wharf. From here, it does start to get a bit steeper. Luckily, this steep part isn’t too long and in no time you will be popping out on top of the hill at the lookout.
The view from up here is one of my favourites in Queenstown. It is just the lake and mountains as far as the eye can see. This is one of those places you need to experience for yourself. There is a cute little bench to sit on and enjoy the 360 views as well.
You can either follow the same path back or go down the other side. If you go the other way just make sure to turn left at the junction near the bottom of the hill to get back to the main track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you walk to Bob’s Cove any time of Year?
Yes the walk isn’t too difficult and can be done anytime of year. It is not often that you will get snow falling this low, however it may get a bit icy and slippery on the steeper sections in winter.
Is the walk to Bob’s Cove Child friendly?
Yes, it is child friendly. I see many kids here all the time. The walk up to the lookout may be hard for some kids, but most active kids would easily get up to the top.
Can you Bring Dogs?
Yes, dogs are allowed at Bob’s Cove. It is a great spot to bring them for a walk or even a swim on hotter days. However, they must be on a leash at all times.
Are there Toilets at Bob’s Cove?
There is a long drop toilet near the main beach area. Twelve Mile Delta is not too far away from the carpark and haas a few toilets which are a bit nicer.
Is there a Bus to Bob’s Cove?
Unfortunately there are no busses that go out to Bob’s cove and you will need your own car.
Can you Swim at Bob’s Cove?
Yes, Bob’s Cove is a great place to go for a swim. The water is VERY cold, as you would expect from a lake in the mountains, but is great for a quick dip. If you are keen to get in the water, make sure to head over to the wharf and jump in from there.
Are there other spots in Queenstown Similar to Bob’s Cove?
Bob’s Cove is one of a kind, but there are plenty of other places to visit that have beautiful views without the crowds. Not too far away you will find Moke Lake which has some great walks, as well as the Glenorchy Lagoon. Lake Hayes is closer to Arrowtown but is another cool spot.
Some other slightly harder walks that I love are Wye Creek, Queenstown Hill and Bob’s Peak. If you want a challenging walk then check out Ben Lomond.
Wrap up – Bob’s Cove
Now that you know everything there is to know about Bob’s Cove, you are ready to go and check it out for yourself. Remember to give yourself enough time to really enjoy your surroundings and take in the peacefulness of the area.
Get exploring and enjoy one of the best spots in Queenstown.
