Blue Lake Lookout (Green Lake view) - Image 1
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Blue Lake Lookout Green Lake View

4.5
·127 reviews·Rotorua, New Zealand

Witness the breathtaking contrast of Blue Lake and Green Lake from an elevated lookout, with accessible walking tracks around Blue Lake.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Clear sunny days

Vibrant colors are best seen

CrowdMedium
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Blue Lake Lookout (Green Lake view) - Image 1

Blue Lake Lookout Green Lake View

Best Time

Clear sunny days

Vibrant colors are best seen

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the breathtaking contrast of Blue Lake and Green Lake from an elevated lookout, with accessible walking tracks around Blue Lake.

4.5
(127 reviews)

"Majestic views to the Blue Lake and Green Lake, spectacular serene place."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Colors

Visit on a clear day to see the distinct blue and green hues of the lakes.

🚶‍♀️ Easy Loop Walk

The Blue Lake loop is a short, serene walk perfect for families.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Blue Lake Lookout

Blue Lake Lookout

Elevated viewpoint

Majestic panoramic views of both Blue Lake and Green Lake, showcasing their unique colors.

Blue Lake Walking Track

Blue Lake Walking Track

Around Blue Lake

Enjoy a serene loop walk, less than an hour, with opportunities for swimming.

Color Contrast

Color Contrast

From the lookout

Witness the striking difference in water colors due to varying bedrock and vegetation.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Views

Visit on a clear, sunny day to truly appreciate the distinct colors of Blue Lake and Green Lake. Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds and potentially softer light for photos.

Accessing the Lakes

While the lookout offers views of both lakes, only Blue Lake is accessible for walking around and swimming. Green Lake is privately owned and has limited viewing access.

Best Times

When
Clear sunny days
Why
Vibrant colors are best seen
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, beautiful light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Rotorua - what are some cool things to do there that don't break the bank?

📸 Capture the Colors

Visit on a clear day to see the distinct blue and green hues of the lakes. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Loop Walk

The Blue Lake loop is a short, serene walk perfect for families. Reddit

🏊 Swim in Blue Lake

Blue Lake is accessible for swimming, offering a refreshing experience. Reddit

🚗 Small Carpark Available

There's a small car park and public toilets nearby for convenience. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Colors

Visit on a clear day to see the distinct blue and green hues of the lakes. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Loop Walk

The Blue Lake loop is a short, serene walk perfect for families. Reddit

🏊 Swim in Blue Lake

Blue Lake is accessible for swimming, offering a refreshing experience. Reddit

🚗 Small Carpark Available

There's a small car park and public toilets nearby for convenience. Reddit

🚁 Drone Views Recommended

Some visitors suggest a drone would offer incredible aerial perspectives. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(127 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the majestic views of Blue and Green Lakes from the lookout, especially on clear days. The easy walking track around Blue Lake and the opportunity to swim are also highlights. However, some are disappointed by the limited access to Green Lake and its less vibrant appearance from the shore.

"This is a elevated lookout offering majestic views to the Blue Lake and Green Lake.
There are a few steps to reach the lookout point, but have handrails which make it easy enough.
Well marked sign boards are there, which describe the history and geology of the lakes.
On a clear sunny day, one can easily see the difference in the colours of the water due to difference in composition of the bedrock and vegetation in the lakes.
This is also a part of the Blue lake walking track.
There is a small carpark and a public toilet nearby.
Highly recommended."

Raghav Abbhi

"Beautiful lake. Been there at 5pm and nobody in the car park. Breathtaking views. Bit of stairs down to the lake. Definitely coming back."

PATHUM DADIGAMUWA (PATO)

"Nothing special really. From the viewpoint, you can see both lakes.
The Green Lake is privately owned, so no access."

Prijs Beer

What People Like

Stunning lake views
Easy walking track
Color contrast

What People Dislike

Limited Green Lake access
Green Lake appearance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Blue Lake Lookout is a short drive from Rotorua. Follow the signs towards the lakes. There is a small car park available near the lookout point. Reddit

Public transport options to Blue Lake Lookout are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access the site. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.

A small car park is available at the lookout. It can fill up during peak times, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

The main lookout point has a few steps with handrails, which might be manageable for some. Access to the walking tracks around Blue Lake may vary in accessibility.

The lookout is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times mentioned, but it's best to visit when there's sufficient light to appreciate the views. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no admission fees to visit Blue Lake Lookout. It's a free public viewpoint. Reddit

The Blue Lake walking track is also free to access. Enjoy the natural beauty without any cost. Reddit

Yes, swimming is permitted in Blue Lake. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip on warmer days. Reddit

Green Lake is privately owned, and access is restricted. You can view it from the lookout, but you cannot walk around it or access its foreshore. Reddit

The lookout is accessible during daylight hours. It's recommended to visit when there's ample natural light to enjoy the scenery. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The primary attraction is the elevated viewpoint offering stunning views of both Blue Lake and Green Lake, highlighting their distinct colors. Reddit

The loop around Blue Lake is a relatively short walk, typically taking less than an hour to complete. Reddit

Yes, there are public toilets located nearby the small car park. Reddit

Signboards at the lookout provide information about the history and geology of the lakes, explaining the differences in their colors. Reddit

Crowds can vary. Visiting on a clear sunny day might mean more visitors, while late afternoons or weekdays could be quieter. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the lake colors. A clear, sunny day is essential to see the color differences. Reddit

You can capture panoramic shots of both lakes from the lookout, close-ups of the Blue Lake's water, and scenic views along the walking track. Reddit

There are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A polarizing filter can help enhance the water colors on a sunny day. Reddit

Getting clear photos of Green Lake can be challenging due to private ownership and bush cover. The lookout offers the best vantage point. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Blue Lake Lookout and its surrounding walking track are great for families. The Blue Lake loop walk is short, easy, and engaging for children, taking less than an hour. Reddit The presence of public toilets and a small car park adds to the convenience for families. While Green Lake's access is limited, the visual spectacle of Blue Lake and the educational signboards can still capture kids' interest. Reddit

Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The opportunity to swim in Blue Lake can be a highlight for children on a warm day. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the water and on any elevated viewing platforms. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Blue Lake Lookout and the Blue Lake walking track are fantastic free attractions. You can enjoy stunning natural scenery and a refreshing walk without spending a dime. Reddit Pack your own food and drinks to save on costs, as there are no dining facilities directly at the lookout. Reddit

This spot is perfect for those looking to experience Rotorua's natural beauty on a budget. The main expense would be transportation to get there. The serene environment and beautiful views offer great value for zero cost. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Lakes' Colors

The striking difference in color between Blue Lake and Green Lake is a fascinating geological phenomenon. Blue Lake gets its vibrant hue from the high concentration of silica in the water, which reflects blue light. This silica originates from the surrounding volcanic rocks. The lake is also known for its clarity and is a popular spot for swimming and walking. Reddit

Green Lake, on the other hand, appears more muted and less distinctly green from the lookout. Its color is influenced by the presence of algae and sediment. Importantly, Green Lake is privately owned, which significantly limits visitor access. While you can see it from the lookout, you cannot walk along its shores or swim in it, a point of disappointment for some visitors. Reddit

On a clear, sunny day, the contrast between the two lakes is most pronounced. The well-marked signboards at the lookout provide detailed explanations of the geological and ecological factors contributing to these unique colors, making it an educational as well as scenic experience. Reddit

Navigating the Blue Lake Walking Track

The Blue Lake Walking Track offers a pleasant and accessible way to experience the natural beauty surrounding Blue Lake. The loop is generally considered easy and can be completed in under an hour, making it suitable for most fitness levels and families. Reddit

The track winds through native bush, providing a peaceful environment. It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local flora and fauna. While the main lookout offers a grand vista, the walking track allows for a more intimate connection with the lake and its surroundings. Reddit

Visitors can also take advantage of the lake's accessibility for swimming. The clear waters of Blue Lake are inviting on a warm day. Remember to bring appropriate gear if you plan to swim, and always be aware of your surroundings and any local advisories. Reddit

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