16 Best Stops on the Drive from Wānaka to Franz Josef
The drive from Wānaka to Franz Josef has got to be one of the most beautiful road trips in New Zealand. It’s honestly wild how much the landscape changes in just a few hours.
You’ll go from golden hills and bright blue lakes to rainforest, wild coastline, and glacier country all in one go.
While the drive itself takes around 4.5 hours without stopping, I’d recommend giving yourself at least a full day. I always seem to take much longer than I plan to drive to drive between these towns due to all the stops I want to make and things I want to see.
There are so many incredible places to pull over along the way, from short waterfall walks to hidden lookouts and beaches you’ll probably have all to yourself.
Here are all the best stops on the drive from Wānaka to Franz Josef, including some of my favourite hidden gems and personal must-dos.
Map of the Wānaka to Franz Josef Roadtrip
Best stops along the Wānaka to Franz Josef Drive
1. Lake Hāwea
Your first real stop after leaving Wānaka should definitely be Lake Hāwea. It’s just a short drive out of town, and the views will hit you straight away, that bright turquoise water surrounded by mountains is something else.
There’s a main lookout right off the highway that gives you those perfect postcard views, but if you’ve got time, head down to the lakefront. It’s usually quiet down there, and you can go for a short walk along the water’s edge.
There’s also a really cool lakeside sauna here that’s such a unique experience. Sitting in the heat with that view right in front of you is next-level relaxing, especially on a crisp morning.
Lake Hāwea is one of those spots that’s simple but beautiful, and it sets the tone perfectly for the rest of the drive.
2. Isthmus Peak
If you’re keen to squeeze in a hike, Isthmus Peak is an incredible option, but it’s definitely not for everyone! It’s a big climb (16km return), so you’ll want to start early if you plan on doing it as part of the drive.
The track zigzags up through farmland and tussock, and the views from the top are unreal. You get Lake Hāwea on one side and Lake Wānaka on the other. It’s a proper leg-burner but so worth it if you’ve got the time.
It’s also a great alternative to Roy’s Peak, especially if you want a similar view but with far fewer people around.
If you’re short on time or energy, I’d save this one for another day and just enjoy the drive.
Related Read: Get the full list of the Best Wānaka Walks HERE
3. Lake Hāwea and Wānaka Lookouts
Once you’re back on the road, keep an eye out for a few pull-off spots along the way, this stretch between Wānaka and Hāwea is seriously stunning.
The Lake Hāwea lookouts are on the right-hand side of the road, with several bays you can pull into. The Lake Wānaka ones are on the left and are usually a bit easier to stop at.
The road twists and turns here, so make sure you’re watching for other cars as you pull over, the scenery can be distracting!
Even just a quick stop here is worth it. These lookouts show off that perfect mix of blue lake, golden hills, and snow-capped peaks in the distance, classic Central Otago at its best. From the Lake Wānaka lookout you can see the famous Mou Waho Island.
4. Blue Pools
The Blue Pools is easily one of my favourite spots and honestly, if you only stop at one place on the drive from Wānaka to Franz Josef, make it this one.
The track takes about 30 minutes each way through gorgeous native bush, across swing bridges, and along a crystal-clear river that’s as blue as it gets.
The water looks like something out of a dream, so vibrant and clear that it barely feels real.
The track has recently reopened after some upgrades, and it’s looking better than ever. I’ve been a few times now, and every single time I’m still blown away by how beautiful it is.
Whether you just go for the photos or feel brave enough to dip your toes in, it’s a total must-do stop.
5. Haast Pass Lookout
Just before you cross over into the West Coast region, you’ll find Haast Pass Lookout. It’s one of those blink-and-you-miss-it stops right off the road, but it’s definitely worth pulling over for.
There’s a short walk uphill to a viewing point that gives you a stunning outlook down the valley, a perfect spot to stretch your legs and take in the changing scenery. I’ve stopped here a few times now, and it’s always peaceful.
It’s not a must visit spot, but it is still really nice if you want to check out something new along the drive.
6. Wilsons Creek Chasm
Wilsons Creek Chasm is one of those hidden gems that most people drive straight past without realising.
There’s no big sign or car park, so you’ll need to keep an eye out for a small area to pull over on the side of the road.
It’s just a short walk through the bush to a narrow gorge with water rushing through, kind of like a mini canyon tucked away in the middle of nowhere. This place is stunning and like nothing I have seen anywhere else.
It’s not the easiest place to find, but that’s what makes it so cool. If you like exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, this one’s for you.
7. Fantail Falls
Fantail Falls is another quick and easy stop that’s well worth it. It’s just a two-minute walk from the car park, and the waterfall itself is beautiful, a wide curtain of water tumbling down into the Haast River.
It’s also right beside the starting point for the track up to Brewster Hut, so you might see trampers loading up their packs before heading off.
There’s something really peaceful about this spot, people often stack rocks on the riverbank, so you’ll usually find little towers of stones scattered around, which makes for a fun photo.
8. Thunder Creek Falls
You’ll hear this one before you see it! Thunder Creek Falls is a tall, powerful 28-metre waterfall that drops straight down into the Haast River.
It’s super easy to get to, just a short flat walk from the car park and it’s one of those spots that’s impossible not to stop at.
The sound of the water crashing down is amazing, and the colour of the river below is that classic West Coast blue.
Every time I stop here, I end up staying longer than I plan to. It’s such a dramatic and photogenic spot, especially if you’re lucky enough to have it to yourself for a few minutes.
9. Roaring Billy Falls
Roaring Billy Falls is another great little stop that doesn’t get quite as much attention as it should. The walk takes about 10 minutes through rainforest before opening out onto a stony riverbank.
The waterfall itself is further in the distance, across the river, but the colour of the water here is unreal, this bright milky-blue that looks almost tropical.
You can hop across the rocks to get a better photo, but it’s not a formed track at the end, so watch your step.
It’s a slightly more rugged stop, but that’s what I love about it, it feels raw and untouched.
10. Ship Creek
Ship Creek is one of my absolute favourite stops on this drive. It’s often overlooked by people rushing to get to the glaciers, but I always stop here and almost every time, I spot dolphins playing out in the waves!
There are two short boardwalk tracks here: one takes you through dense coastal rainforest, and the other leads you around the sand dunes with a big lookout over the beach. The beach itself is stunning, full of driftwood and backed by towering dunes.
It’s such a peaceful place and really captures that wild, remote feeling the West Coast is known for. If you’re doing this drive, make sure you don’t skip it.
11. Knights Point Lookout
Knights Point is one of those classic West Coast viewpoints you’ve probably seen photos of. It’s an easy pull-off spot with plenty of parking and a short walk to several viewing platforms.
From up here, you can see the coastline stretching for miles in both directions, rugged cliffs, wild ocean, and forest-covered hills. On a clear day, it’s absolutely stunning, and even in moody weather it’s got that dramatic, windswept vibe that makes this region so special.
It’s a quick stop, but it’s a memorable one.
12. Monro Beach
Monro Beach is one of the more unique stops along this route and one that not many people know about.
The track to the beach starts just south of Lake Moeraki and takes around an hour return. It winds through dense forest before opening out onto a wild, beautiful beach that feels like it’s miles from anywhere.
Between July to November, this is one of the best places to spot Fiordland crested penguins (tawaki) coming ashore.
If you’re patient and keep your distance, you might be lucky enough to see them it’s such a special experience.
There’s also the Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki nearby, which do tours to see the penguins and you can even stay the night if you want to explore the area more.
13. Fox Glacier
Fox Glacier is one of the main highlights of the drive and for good reason. The glacier itself is absolutely incredible, and even though it’s receded quite a bit over the years, the views are still amazing.
From the car park, you can walk down the Fox Glacier South Side Walkway, which takes around 40 minutes to reach the first viewpoint.
The track is easy to follow and winds through native rainforest before opening up to a view of the valley and the glacier in the distance. If you keep going for another 10 minutes or so, the track continues deeper into the forest to a second viewpoint.
Fox Glacier township itself is a great little stop too. It’s smaller than Franz Josef, but it has a relaxed vibe and everything you need, including cafés, restaurants, and accommodation if you decide to stay the night. You can also book scenic flights and heli-hikes to the glaciers.
If you’re not in a rush, it’s well worth spending a bit of extra time here to explore. Fox has this peaceful, tucked-away feel that I really love. It’s a great spot to slow down before the final stretch to Franz Josef.
14. Fox Glacier Viewpoint – Te Kopikopiko o te Waka
If you’ve got time, this is one stop I’d highly recommend adding to your list. Te Kopikopiko o te Waka, otherwise known as the Fox Glacier Viewpoint, is a bit more tucked away than the main glacier lookouts, and it gives you a completely different perspective of the glacier.
Being further away, you can really see the gigantic size of these glaciers against the mountains.
It’s usually really quiet here, which makes it feel extra special. I love coming here when the weather’s clear, if it is overcast I usually don’t bother. The contrast of the glacier against the farmland and forest is incredible.
15. Lake Matheson
Lake Matheson is another must-do in the Fox Glacier area. The walk is about 1.5 hours return around the lake, and it’s beautifully maintained the whole way.
This is the spot that’s famous for those mirror reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman.
One good thing to know is that you’ll only get that perfect reflection on a calm morning, so it’s worth going early if you can. Even if it’s windy, though, it’s still a really lovely walk through native bush with plenty of viewpoints and boardwalks.
There’s also a great little café by the car park, perfect for breakfast or a post-walk coffee.
16. Franz Josef Glacier
And finally, you’ve made it to Franz Josef! The glacier is just before you arrive in town, and the Glacier Valley Walk is a must-do while you’re here. The track takes you through the valley floor to a viewpoint where you can see the glacier up close.
If you want something extra special, you can also do a heli-hike here, it’s easily one of the best experiences in New Zealand and gives you the chance to actually walk on the glacier itself.
Franz Josef is the perfect place to end your journey. The town has heaps of accommodation, things to do and great spots to eat, and it’s the ideal base for exploring more of the West Coast.
Can’t decide between Fox or Franz Josef Glacier Heli-hikes? Check out my comprehensive guide HERE!
Where to Travel Next?
If you’re continuing up the West Coast, there are a few spots you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
First up is Hokitika, a small coastal town known for its laid-back vibe, wild beach, and the stunning Hokitika Gorge, that bright turquoise water really does look unreal in person. It’s an easy walk from the carpark to the viewpoint, and you can even walk across the swing bridge for an even better view.
Further north, Punakaiki is another must-visit. It’s home to the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, where layers of limestone have formed these crazy stacked rock formations that look like, well, pancakes. It’s especially impressive at high tide when the waves crash through the blowholes.
The West Coast has heaps to offer, from wild beaches and rainforests to waterfalls and glow worm caves. It’s one of those places that’s best explored slowly, so make sure to give yourself enough time to take it all in.
Driving from Wānaka to Franz Josef
The drive from Wānaka to Franz Josef is easily one of the best road trips in the South Island. You’ll go from bright blue lakes to rainforest, waterfalls, beaches, and glaciers all in one day.
I’ve done this drive a few times now, and I still find new spots every time. My best tip is to take your time. Don’t rush it, stop whenever something catches your eye, and just enjoy it. The scenery really is some of the best you’ll find anywhere in New Zealand.
