Lake Tikitapu Tours

Lake Tikitapu featuring landscape views and a lake or waterhole
Rotorua featuring a lake or waterhole as well as a small group of people
Lake Tikitapu featuring a lake or waterhole
Rotorua showing a lake or waterhole as well as a small group of people
Lake Tikitapu featuring a sandy beach and landscape views


Explore one of the region’s most beautiful lakes and relax on the beach beside the sparkling water.

Lake Tikitapu is also known as “Blue Lake”, because of its gorgeous sapphire waters. Lie out in the sun on the lakeside beach and cool off with a refreshing dip in the waters. Stride along the scenic walking trail and take in panoramic views of the lake.

Bring food and drinks with you and spend a day in the idyllic surroundings. Set up a base on the beach at the north end or make use of the barbecue facilities and cook a feast for your family and friends. From the picnic area above the beach, you can look down over the forest-encircled lake. Notice its striking colour a bed of pumice and rhyolite makes the water in this collapsed volcano crater glow a deep shade of blue.

Paddle around in the lake’s calm, clean water. If you enjoy fishing, keep your feet dry and take advantage of the excellent angling on offer here instead. Rainbow trout inhabit the water and are particularly abundant between May and August when they spawn close to the shoreline.

Stretch your legs during a stroll around the lake. The woodland trail that forms a loop is just over 6 kilometres (3 miles) long and will take approximately an hour to complete. Watch for native birds such as tuis and fantails. Stop at the southeast end to marvel at the strange green waters of Lake Rotokakahi and admire the magnificent views from the lookout point on the southwest corner.

Lake Tikitapu is a 15-minute drive southeast of Rotorua. Find parking at the northern end of the lake as well as toilets and a children’s playground. Additional parking is available at the southern end between the two lakes. The lake is popular for boating and waterskiing and regularly hosts events.

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Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Lake Tikitapu

Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park

Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park

3 out of 5
723 Tarawera Rd, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park
Charming Holiday Hideaway near the Lake

Charming Holiday Hideaway near the Lake

Lake Okareka
Charming Holiday Hideaway near the Lake
Okareka Lakestay - Sleeps 8 - close to lake.

Okareka Lakestay - Sleeps 8 - close to lake.

Lake Okareka
Okareka Lakestay - Sleeps 8 - close to lake.
Chalet Near The Lake - Lake Okareka Sleeps 12

Chalet Near The Lake - Lake Okareka Sleeps 12

Lake Okareka
Chalet Near The Lake - Lake Okareka Sleeps 12
Rydges Rotorua

Rydges Rotorua

4.5 out of 5
10 Tryon Street, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Rydges Rotorua
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Tikitapu

At Lake Tikitapu in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, enjoy a variety of water activities such as swimming and relaxing at nearby spas. Explore the scenic Tikitapu Trail for stunning views, unwind at local holiday parks, and indulge in shopping opportunities in Rotorua. This idyllic destination offers a perfect blend of nature and leisure, making it an ideal spot for a memorable vacation.

Food and drinks

Enjoy exquisite wines at Volcanic Hills Winery, just 8 miles from Lake Tikitapu. With stunning views and a romantic atmosphere, it’s perfect for a relaxing outing. Don’t miss their local cheese pairings and delightful food offerings to complement your wine tasting experience.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Rotorua Central Mall, located 6 miles away, offering a variety of family-friendly stores. Nearby, Eat Street and the Rotorua Night Market, both also 6 miles away, provide great options for local eats and unique souvenirs in a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the Polynesian Spa, where soothing thermal pools and wellness treatments provide the perfect relaxation vibe. For active recreation, visit the Rotorua International Stadium for various sports events or enjoy a round of golf at Springfield Golf Club amidst beautiful outdoor scenery.

Adventure

The Haiku Pathway, located 5 miles from Lake Tikitapu, offers a scenic hiking experience with stunning outdoor vibes. For thrill-seekers, DriftKartz is 7 miles away, providing an exhilarating karting adventure. Lastly, aMAZEme, situated 10 miles from the lake, features a fun-filled maze perfect for families.

Nightlife

For a thrilling night, visit Luge Rotorua, just 9 miles from Lake Tikitapu, where you can race down scenic tracks. For a cultural experience, check out Tribal Lights Cultural Theatre, 7 miles away, offering captivating performances that blend culture and entertainment for all ages.

Find the best attractions near Lake Tikitapu

Lake Tikitapu, also known as the Blue Lake, is a stunning destination in the Bay of Plenty Region, offering a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, couples, and families. Explore the serene beauty of Lake Tikitapu and nearby Lake Rotorua, visit a local cultural village, or unwind in soothing hot springs. This idyllic setting promises memorable experiences in and around Rotorua, New Zealand.

  • Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest: Experience the thrill of outdoor adventure in this stunning forest, where towering redwoods create a magical atmosphere. Enjoy walking or biking along scenic trails, immersed in nature.
  • Lake Tarawera: Indulge in a romantic getaway at this picturesque lake, perfect for beach activities and breathtaking scenery. Whether swimming, picnicking, or simply soaking in the views, it’s a tranquil escape.
  • Whakarewarewa: The Living Maori Village: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Māori people at this vibrant village. Discover traditional customs, crafts, and geothermal wonders while enjoying authentic cultural performances.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Tikitapu

Visiting Lake Tikitapu can be budget-friendly with several money-saving tips. Enjoy free entry to the lake and nearby attractions like Eat Street and Hamurana Springs. The best times to visit for lower accommodation rates are May, August, and November. Book hotels about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, where you can filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership also offers exclusive discounts and rewards for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Tikitapu are May, August and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Lake Tikitapu is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your favorite destination, and more. You can organize your search results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you can narrow down your choices by hotel category—if you select the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Lake Tikitapu with flights and activities by reserving an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.