Settle in for a day of watching the kids bomb off pontoons below floatplanes lazily circling above the volcanic-shaped Lake Taupō, all set against the epic backdrop of Tongariro National Park — enjoy a slice of Kiwi summer magic here.
Acacia Bay North | Taupō
Head west to a laid-back swimming beach with its wooden jetty perfect for taking the plunge before floating around in shallow, emerald-green waters. Pack a picnic or fire up some snacks on the electric BBQ — it’s a popular spot, so claim your patch early and soak up the good vibes. Watch boats cruise by on their way to the impressive Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings while ancient Mount Tauhara snoozes on the horizon. Stick around till dusk to catch the lights of Taupō starting to sparkle or tucker out the kids on the nearby pirate-themed Besley Park Playground.
Need to know: Toilet. Free electric BBQ. Acacia Bay Road, Taupō.
Hot water beach | Taupō
Dip the toes or wallow in this thermally heated stretch of Lake Taupō shoreline with its backdrop of cute beaches and views across shimmering waters to Tongariro National Park. The steaming hot water’s straight from a natural geothermal spring, so just float around and find dreamy pockets of freshly heated bliss — even on cooler days, it’s warm here.
Need to know: Free electric BBQ. Parking opposite Mobil on the corner of Lake Terrace and Napier Road, and Lowell Place.
Whakamoenga Point | Acacia Bay
Launch off flat volcanic rocks into clear summer-warmed waters surrounded by bush-covered hills glowing in the golden evening light — ultimate sunset vibes. A 20-minute pretty bush walk leads to Whakamoenga Point, with rock ledges and small rock channels for dangling feet or taking the plunge. Or grab a fishing permit and snare a wily trout as the sun dips across the vast caldera of Lake Taupō. There are plenty of options here to eke out the last of the day at this locals’ gem just 15 minutes from town.
Need to know: Parking at the end of Acacia Bay Road.
Taupō Lakefront | Taupō
This prime stretch along Lake Terrace is a go-to spot for cooling off in the shallow waters of New Zealand’s biggest lake. You know it’s a worthy destination when the locals set up camp for the whole day here. With tons of parking and nearly a kilometre of lakeside real estate, there’s plenty of room to roll out sun shelters, unpack all the floaties, and dive into some summer fun. So, grab your spot early, bring all the beach toys, and get ready for a solid day of sun, swimming, and chilling.
Need to know: Toilets. Drinking fountain. Free electric BBQ. Lake Terrace.
Waiotaka Scenic Reserve | Waiotaka
This classic Kiwi lakeside beach is a worthy detour gem while heading along the lake’s eastern reaches, with its long, sandy shoreline sprinkled with pumice and framed by towering volcanic peaks on the horizon. With views stretching north to Taupō, it’s the perfect uncrowded spot to relax. Even if you’re just stopping for a picnic, this reserve is a top pick to stretch your legs, soak in the views, and recharge before hitting the road again.
Need to know: Toilets. Picnic tables. 37km south of Taupō off SH1 on Frethey Drive.
Pūkawa Beach | Pūkawa
Head out of town to the southern tip of Lake Taupō, where a laid-back little village springs to life as generations of families gather for a sun-soaked holiday. The north-facing beach soaks up the sun all day, perfect for stretching out on the sand. And, if things get too toasty, dive into nearby bush walks for a cool-down wander under the trees. Top off the day by visiting the Tokaanu Thermal Pools for a cosy, thermally heated dip that’s pure bliss.
Need to know: Toilets. Picnic tables. 60-minute drive from Taupō. Pūkawa.