Top 5 Summer Activities in Queenstown You Can't Miss
Queenstown in summer is pure magic – sunshine, adventure, and scenery that takes your breath away. Whether you're chasing thrills or just soaking up the vibes, here are 5 must-do activities you can’t afford to miss:
1. Queenstown’s Best-Kept Secret: Coronet Peak Gondola!
If you think gondolas are all the same, think again. Coronet Peak’s gondola is a step above the rest. For starters, it’s Queenstown’s highest gondola and whisks you to a spectacular 1200m summit. Once at the top, the views are nothing short of epic – think endless mountains, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables.
But it’s not just about the views. You can try your hand at disc golf, a fun and addictive twist on traditional golf, or tackle some of New Zealand’s most iconic MTB trails – from family-friendly rides to hair-raising downhill tracks. And the best part? No queues. Visit before the secret gets out and this becomes the next viral destination.
2. KJet – The Iconic Jet Boat Adventure
Conveniently departing from central Queenstown and Queenstown Marina, KJet offers the thrill of skimming across Lake Wakatipu at 95km/h, performing 360° spins, and cruising down the mighty Kawarau and Shotover Rivers. The stunning landscapes and heart-racing fun make it a quintessential Queenstown summer activity.
The OG Jetboat Ride
3. AJ Hackett Bungy
Inspiring you to do things you never thought you could!
Have you always thought about stepping outside of your comfort zone but didn’t quite know where to start? Begin your journey at the Kawarau Bungy Centre! Located above the stunning Kawarau River, this is the original commercial bungy jumping site, where people come to take on the 43meter leap!
Fancy taking the challenge even higher? Try the highest bungy in New Zealand - The Nevis Bungy, a 134-meter (or 8.5 second) plunge into the Nevis valley.
So, what are you waiting for?
4. Hire a Bike with Around The Basin
Explore Queenstown’s Scenic Trails. Hiring a bike and hitting Queenstown’s cycle trails is the perfect summer activity,. Start with the picturesque Queenstown Trail, which winds through stunning landscapes to Arrowtown. From there, you can cycle to boutique wineries or local breweries for a well-deserved drink.
Looking for something more adventurous? Tackle the Gibbston River Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the Kawarau River while leading you to the heart of Central Otago’s wine country. With trails for all skill levels, it’s a unique way to explore the beauty of Queenstown while indulging in a little gourmet relaxation.
Around the Basin run bike shuttles, transport, bike hire and guided trips with a variety of distances and adventures available to choose from.
5. Fergburger + Perky’s Floating Bar – The Ultimate Foodie Combo
No trip to Queenstown is complete without a Fergburger – world-famous for a reason. But instead of hunting for a place to eat your burger, head to Perky’s Floating Bar, with your burger in hand (about a 2 minute walk). Enjoy your meal with a chilled drink, surrounded by stunning lake views. Pro tip: Go during sunset for peak vibes.
Burgers on Boats
Bonus: Time Tripper – A Hidden Family Favourite
Tucked under KJet’s Main Town Pier, Time Tripper is a fun, educational journey through Queenstown’s history. With captivating visuals and stories, it’s a hit with kids and a great way to see what’s underwater.
Whether you’re soaring to the summit at Coronet Peak or cycling through Central Otago’s stunning landscapes, Queenstown is bursting with unforgettable summer experiences. Get out there and make this summer one to remember!
