Ruby Island
A serene island gem in Lake Wanaka, perfect for kayaking, picnics, and enjoying breathtaking mountain and lake views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for kayaking and exploring.
Ruby Island
Best Time
Perfect for kayaking and exploring.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island gem in Lake Wanaka, perfect for kayaking, picnics, and enjoying breathtaking mountain and lake views.
"A great spot for a picnic or just a walk, well maintained and easily accessible by kayak."
🛶 Kayak Rental
Rent a kayak in Wanaka for an easy 20-min paddle to the island. :kayak:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the island's picnic tables and BBQ facilities. :picnic_table:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kayaking to Ruby Island
Lake Wanaka
Paddle across the serene waters of Lake Wanaka to this charming island gem.
Island Exploration & Picnics
Ruby Island
Wander the island's paths and enjoy a peaceful picnic with stunning lake views.
Winter Wonderland Views
Lake Wanaka
Experience the island's beauty framed by snow-capped mountains in winter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Ruby Island
Island Amenities & Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛶 Kayak Rental
Rent a kayak in Wanaka for an easy 20-min paddle to the island. :kayak:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the island's picnic tables and BBQ facilities. :picnic_table:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the island with you. :dog:
⏱️ Allow Extra Time
Don't rush! Explore the island's trails after your paddle. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Kayak Rental
Rent a kayak in Wanaka for an easy 20-min paddle to the island. :kayak:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the island's picnic tables and BBQ facilities. :picnic_table:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the island with you. :dog:
⏱️ Allow Extra Time
Don't rush! Explore the island's trails after your paddle. :stopwatch:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ruby Island as a well-maintained, easily accessible spot for picnics and exploration via kayak or boat. The serene atmosphere and beautiful views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains are consistently praised. Some note that while amenities like toilets and BBQs are available, visitors should come prepared with their own food and drinks.
"Took a great paddle from the lake edge of here and back in about 1.5 hours. Good to get out and explore the island as well."
Jake Davey
"600 metres from Waterfall Creek on Lake Wanaka, Ruby Island is well maintained and a great spot for a picnic or just a walk.
Need a kayak or boat to get there. Or swim."
Janeve Haskins
"Ruby Island sits at a reasonable 1km from mainland Wanaka. On a calm day, you can kayak there and back in less than 2 hours. If you're hiring a kayak, allow for more time so you can explore the island a little bit. There's plenty of picnic tables and even a toilet on the island, so it's nice to chill there for a bit and enjoy the views. Dogs are allowed."
Caris Dawe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ruby Island is accessible by kayak, paddleboard, or boat from the shores of Lake Wanaka. It's about 1km from the mainland, and a kayak trip can take around 20 minutes each way. Swimming is also an option on calm days. +1
Yes, swimming to Ruby Island is possible on calm days, though kayaking or boating is generally more comfortable and allows you to carry more supplies.
There is no direct public transport to Ruby Island. You'll need to arrange your own watercraft or join a boat tour that stops there.
Waterfall Creek Reserve is a popular and convenient launch point for kayaking to Ruby Island.
Ruby Island is located approximately 1 kilometer from the mainland shores near Wanaka town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Ruby Island. It's a public reserve.
Ruby Island is accessible at any time, as it's an open natural area. However, daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The BBQ facilities on Ruby Island are free to use for visitors.
There is no entry fee for dogs on Ruby Island, but they must be kept on a leash.
While not all boat tours specifically stop at Ruby Island, some Lake Wanaka cruises may offer it as a point of interest or a brief stop. It's best to inquire with local tour operators.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking the island's short trails, have a picnic, use the BBQ facilities, and take in the beautiful views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. +1
Yes, there is a toilet facility available on Ruby Island for visitors.
Absolutely! Kids can enjoy jumping off the wharf, exploring the island, and picnicking. It's a safe and fun environment.
Ruby Island offers lovely views of Lake Wanaka, the iconic Wanaka Tree, and the majestic mountains of the Southern Alps.
Yes, Ruby Island provides excellent photographic opportunities with its unique island setting, lake vistas, and mountain backdrops, especially during sunrise or sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining establishments on Ruby Island. It's a natural reserve meant for picnics and self-catering.
Yes, Ruby Island is equipped with BBQ facilities for visitors to use. Remember to bring your own food and cooking supplies.
Bring all your food, drinks, and any necessary picnic supplies. Don't forget to take all your trash with you when you leave.
It's advisable to bring your own drinking water as there are no guaranteed potable water sources on the island.
You can purchase food and picnic supplies in the nearby town of Wanaka before you set out for Ruby Island.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include the shoreline with views of the Wanaka Tree, the island's walking paths with mountain backdrops, and the lake itself from various vantage points.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography on Ruby Island, casting a warm glow over the lake and mountains.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local bylaws and Civil Aviation Authority rules for Lake Wanaka and surrounding areas before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or wildlife.
The island itself, the iconic Wanaka Tree nearby, and the reflections on the water are unique subjects. Keep an eye out for local birdlife too.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-Tip: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and consider bringing a frisbee or ball for some island games. The short walks are also great for little legs to explore.
🚣♀️ Adventure Seekers
Challenge Yourself: Time your paddle to catch the sunrise or sunset for a truly unforgettable experience.
📸 Photographers
Must-Capture: Reflections on the water during calm mornings and the silhouette of the island against a colorful sunset.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to Ruby Island: Your Waterborne Adventure
When planning your trip, consider the weather conditions. Calm days are ideal for paddling and make the journey much more enjoyable. The distance from the mainland, often cited as about 1 kilometer from Waterfall Creek Reserve, is manageable for most. Allowing ample time not just for the paddle but also for exploring the island itself is key to a fulfilling experience.
Key Takeaway: Prioritize water access and check weather forecasts. Kayaking offers the most intimate experience, while boat tours provide a more leisurely way to visit.
Exploring Ruby Island: Nature, Picnics, and Relaxation
Ruby Island is also a pet-friendly destination, welcoming dogs on leashes, which adds to its appeal for families and pet owners.
Don't Miss: The short, scenic walks around the island and the opportunity to enjoy a picnic or BBQ with a view.
Photography Opportunities on Ruby Island
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. These times offer soft, warm light that enhances the colors of the landscape and creates beautiful reflections on the water.
Wide-angle lenses are highly recommended to capture the sweeping vistas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing wildlife. Remember to check local drone regulations if you plan to capture aerial footage, as these can vary. Photography Tip: Capture the island's charm during the 'blue hour' after sunset for a serene, moody atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit