Lakeside Accommodation in Taupō: The Ultimate Guide [2023]
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Before you can start planning your perfect trip to Taupō, the lakeside paradise of the North Island, you’ll need to figure out where to stay. And if you’re visiting this beautiful lake town, you might as well stay at one of the many lakeside accommodation Taupō providers!
I suppose you could say I’m familiar with Taupō. I lived there for twenty years, and I know the place forwards and backwards, blindfolded! With my experience and knowledge, rest assured that you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Taupō!
I’ve done all the hard work and researched all of the different lakeside accommodation in Taupō options so that you don’t have to. Below is a comprehensive list of all the hotels and motels in Taupō which can be considered ‘lakefront’ (i.e. you don’t need to cross a road or walk very far to get to the lake). I’ve organised them by budget, and also included my top picks from each category.
So grab a cuppa and let’s get started!
All Lakeside Accommodation in Taupō – All The Spots To Choose From For Your Stay!
Following is a comprehensive list of all the hotels and motels in Taupō which are right on the lakefront. I’ve organised them first by budget, but then by facilities and what you’re looking for (i.e. family-friendly stays).
Since this is a post about ‘lakeside’ or ‘lakefront’ accommodation in Taupō, I’ve only included the ones which are literally right on the lakefront. But for good measure, I’ve thrown in a few at the end of this list which are also pretty darn close (within a 5 minute walk).
Lakeside Accommodation in Taupō for Budget Travellers (up to NZD150 per night)
For budget travellers looking for a lakeside stay in Taupō, there are only a handful of options to choose from, largely due to the fact that the prime lakeside property is occupied predominantly by mid-range and luxury hotels.
My Top Budget Pick – Accent on Taupō
Accent on Taupō Motor Lodge is a four-star motel situated just across the road from the popular Two Mile Bay Sailing Centre (offering cafe and pub-style meals, a licensed bar and coffee with excellent outdoor dining). It’s just a hop, skip & jump across the road to one of the lake’s calmest swimming holes, with beautiful views across to Acacia Bay.
It is a highly rated and well-liked destination for travellers, and with only a handful of rooms you know you’ll be well looked after. The best part about this accommodation (and the main reason I’ve chosen it as my top pick!) is that it’s also dog-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend along with you!
ACCENT ON TAUPŌ
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.7/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $144
Lake View Rooms: from $189
Family Rooms: from $284
Based by the Lake is a modern multi-storey backpacker hostel situated only a short walk from the water’s edge. It offers an excellent balance between quality and value for money, with the private rooms having their own bathroom for convenience. The hostel is clean and tidy with communal areas for guests staying in the dorm rooms. Some private rooms have lake views, and if you’re looking for nightlife Based is the perfect spot for you, with pubs and bars on your doorstep.
BASED BY THE LAKE
Customer Rating: 7.2/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $110
Dorm Rooms: from $40
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Based by the Lake >>
Lakefront Lodge is a basic but comfortable hotel situated in a prime location. Just 10 minutes by foot to the city centre, the Lodge has breathtaking views of the lake and beautiful sunsets from its on-site restaurant and its lake view rooms. Its 3-star rating is one of the lowest on this list, but location is paramount being right opposite the most popular swimming beach at Lake Taupō. And if you don’t want to take a dip in the icy Lake Taupō waters, there’s a swimming pool for more comfort.
LAKEFRONT LODGE
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 7/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $144
Lake View Rooms: from $228
Family Rooms: from $236
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at Lakefront Lodge >>
Lakeside Accommodation in Taupō for Mid-Range Travellers (up to NZD250 per night)
My Top Pick – Acacia Lake View Motel
Acacia Lake View Motel offers luxurious lakeside accommodation in Taupō with unbeatable views. Boasting a 9.1 rating on Booking.com it’s one of the most highly rated on this list, and for good reason.
It’s just a short stroll around the corner to some of Taupō’s busiest cafes and restaurants, but the real drawcards is the absolute lakefront experience from the lake view studios. Enjoy a wine on the private balcony with uninterrupted views of the lake and mountains beyond. You’ll need to be quick, though: the lake view rooms book out FAST.
ACACIA LAKE VIEW MOTEL
Customer Rating: 9.1/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $189
Family Rooms: from $400
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at Acacia Lake View Motel >>
This apartment-style hotel offers large and spacious rooms with full kitchens included in all rooms. After a day out exploring, relax in the on-site swimming pool or hot tub, or take a stroll down to the lakefront for a quick dip or to watch the sunset. Taupō CBD and the lake’s best swimming spots are within a 15 minute stroll, so you’re well placed to enjoy all that lakefront living has to offer. With single/couple rooms starting from $248, you can treat yourself and your partner to an affordable weekend away.
THE VILLAGE RESORT
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.8/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $248
Lake View Rooms: from $406
Family Rooms: from $444
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at The Village Resort >>
Great Lake Motel is the closest lakeside motel to the Taupō CBD. A highly-rated 4-star facility offering spacious and comfortable rooms, it provides the perfect base for exploring this beautiful lakeside town. Just a five minute walk from the town centre and all its restaurants, you’re never far away from the action, or hire an e-scooter and explore the lakefront pathway in all its glory.
GREAT LAKE MOTEL
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.8/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $240
Family Rooms: from $325
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at Great Lake Motel >>
Two doors down from the Great Lake Motel, Taupō Ika Nui boasts both upstairs and downstairs rooms which all come with full kitchens for convenience. Within 5 minutes walking distance from the CBD and local restaurants, you’re close to everything. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and spa pool on site for guests to enjoy. With one of the most reasonably priced lake view rooms on this list, and a beautiful garden to boot, it’s no wonder Taupō Ika Nui is so highly rated.
TAUPŌ IKA NUI
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.7/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $179
Lake View Rooms: from $215
Family Rooms: from $258
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at Taupō Ika Nui >>
World-famous in Taupō, Sails on the Lake is a local stalwart and familiar sight along the lakefront. These lakefront apartments (some of which offer a full kitchen including an oven) are a great way to get the most out of your stay in Taupō. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend break or a prolonged holiday, Sails on the Lake can cater for you. With comfortable, warm and sunny rooms, and just a hop across to the main swimming areas, this is the place to be on your summer holidays in Taupō.
SAILS ON THE LAKE
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.7/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $205
Lake View Rooms: from $250
Family Rooms: from $290
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Sails on the Lake >>
Cottage Mews Motel is located close to the lovely and calm Two Mile Bay beach, a local favourite swimming hole now made even better by the food, drinks and live entertainment offered at the nearby Two Mile Bay Sailing Centre. This cottage-style accommodation comes in at a reasonable price, and you won’t miss the lack of lake views from every room, with the lake being just a few steps from your door.
COTTAGE MEWS MOTEL
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.7/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $173
Lake View Rooms: from $183
Family Rooms: from $273
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Cottage Mews Motel >>
It doesn’t get more absolute lakefront than this. Clearwater Motor Lodge’s rooms are just a few short metres from the edge of Lake Taupō, featuring stunning views not just of the lake but the mountains beyond. This 4-star property provides comfortable and convenient amenities for both couples and families alike. Most rooms offer a private thermal hot tub, with ground floor rooms having a small private garden and upper floor rooms having their own balcony to enjoy the sunset. Although Hot Water Beach is a short 5 minute stroll away, the water directly in front of your unit here is remarkably warm too.
CLEARWATER MOTOR LODGE
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.3/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $247
Lake View Rooms: from $247
Family Rooms: from $329
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Clearwater Motor Lodge >>
Milennium Hotel & Resort (Manuel’s)
One of the more upmarket resorts in the town, Manuels has long-offered luxurious executive accommodation, fine dining and superior amenities to all its guests. The resort offers a heated pool, sauna, gym and tennis court for guests to take advantage of during their stay. There are also two award-winning restaurants on site serving delicious food and coffee all day with superb lakefront views. Single rooms start from $225, with lake view rooms available from $270. Families can just about be accommodated in the Superior Twin Rooms, but it’s worth noting this resort isn’t really set up to cater for children.
MILENNIUM HOTEL & RESORT (MANUEL’S)
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.2/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $225
Lake View Rooms: from $270
Family Rooms: from $315
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Milennium Hotel & Resort >>
At The Cove enjoy spacious rooms (some with full kitchens) and breathtaking views right on Taupō’s famous Hot Water Beach! Enjoy delicious meals from the on-site lakefront cafe or take your togs and towels down to the warm waters for some fun in the sun. The famous Steaming Bean coffee cart is just a short 5 minute lakefront stroll away, or perhaps get those mountain bikes out and explore the Lion’s Walkway.
THE COVE
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.2/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $213
Lake View Rooms: from $213
Family Rooms: from $403
✅ Check prices and book your stay at The Cove >>
The Colonial Lodge Motel is the perfect retreat for couples, families, and single travellers looking to enjoy a lakeside holiday. Located just metres away from the picturesque shores of Lake Taupō, this 4-star motel has good lake views and features comfortable yet affordable accommodation. Each room includes a spa bath for complete relaxation and rejuvenation after a long day of swimming and water activities. Paddleboard and kayak hire is available just a short 2 minute walk away during the busy summer months.
COLONIAL LODGE MOTEL
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.2/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $187
Lake View Rooms: from $264
Family Rooms: from $324
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Colonial Lodge Motel >>
Baycourt Motel offers guests great views of the lake from the balconies of its upstairs rooms, although no rooms in this motel actually have lake views from inside the room. That being said, all rooms are modern and well-appointed although the motel is not really set up for families (with only sofa beds offered for additional people).
BAYCOURT MOTEL
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.1/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $177
Family Rooms: from $207
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at Baycourt Motel >>
Le Chalet Suisse offers stunning lake views from all of its apartments. It is located just a short 5-10 minute walk from the CBD and local restaurants, with an excellent Thai restaurant (Taupō Thai) just a 1-2 minute stroll from your room. The apartments are split over two levels, with some having street views (with lake glimpses) whilst others face directly towards the main lake and mountain views. The ever-popular Taupō mini golf is right on the doorstep, as is popular restaurant, fine dining and live music at Lake Bistro.
LE CHALET SUISSE
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $218
Lake View Rooms: from $240 (2 people)
Family Rooms: from $298
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at Le Chalet Suisse >>
Although basic, the Tui Oaks Motel is a stalwart of lakeside accommodation in Taupō. This 3-star motel still has a passable rating score (7.8 out of 10) due only to its longstanding nature, excellent customer service and fantastic location. Whilst certianly not the flashiest accommodation on this list, most of the apartments have full kitchens and due to its multi-storey complex, most of them offer amazing lake views.
TUI OAKS MOTEL
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 7.8/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $169
Lake View Rooms: from $179
Family Rooms: from $248
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at Tui Oaks >>
Absolute Lake View Motel is the ideal lakeside accommodation, featuring the perfect blend of lakeside living and proximity to the shops and cafes of the main town centre. During their stay, guests can enjoy its indoor solar-heated pool, hot tub, sauna and fitness equipment. And what’s more? The motel is just located 5 minutes’ walk away from the CBD and the town’s most popular restaurants.
ABSOLUTE LAKE VIEW MOTEL
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 7.5/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $176
Family Rooms: from $240
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at Absolute Lake View Motel >>
Twin Peaks Lakeside Inn is a 3-star accommodation located just a 10 minute walk from town. With lake view and family rooms available for a reasonable price, it’s a perfectly serviceable base for individuals, couples and families for a weekend or week-long stay. Take a short stroll to the water’s edge, and kick back and watch the rugby or football in the English-style pub Jolly Goodfellows in the evenings.
TWIN PEAKS LAKESIDE INN
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 7.4/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $203
Lake View Rooms: from $212
Family Rooms: from $296
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at Twin Peaks Lakeside Inn >>
Although not absolute lakefront, Lakeland Resort is pretty close to it. Just a short stroll from the Two Mile Bay Sailing Centre and swimming spots, Lakeland Resort features a range of amenities, including an on-site restaurant, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a private tennis court.
LAKELAND RESORT
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 7.2/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $161
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Lakeland Resort >>
Located right adjacent to the crystal clear waters of Lake Taupō, Oasis Beach Resort offers a unique accommodation experience. Guests can choose from a selection of single rooms, lake view rooms, or even family rooms – all designed to provide comfort and relaxation. With its own tennis court and restaurant and cafe within short walking distance, it is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy their holiday in Taupō in style.
OASIS BEACH RESORT
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 7.1/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $167
Lake View Rooms: from $270
Family Rooms: from $283
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Oasis Beach Resort >>
Make the most of water activities and lakeside relaxation in Taupō with a stay at 300 Lake Terrace. This self contained one bedroom apartment is perfect for a couples’ romantic getaway. Set back from the road with a swimming pool on site, it’s the proximity to the kayak and paddleboard hire at Two Mile Bay Sailing Centre that makes this stay so unique. You could spend the entire day at the lake here, coming back only to sleep and rejuvenate ready for another action-packed day.
✅ Find out more and book your stay at 300 Lake Terrace Apartment C4 >>
Lakeside Accommodation in Taupō for Luxury Travellers: NZD250+ per night
My Top Pick – Sacred Waters
The only five-star facility on this list, Sacred Waters Taupō is Taupō’s most luxurious lakeside hotel, offering unparalleled and uninterrupted views of Lake Taupō direct from your bed or sofa. The apartment-style suites feature full kitchens, comfortable bedrooms and lounge areas with astounding lake views.
Guests can enjoy relaxing in the on-site pool or working out in the gym, but if you prefer a more private experience all rooms have their own hot tub and after all you’re just a hop away from the lake. You can experience this lakeside living from as little as $319 per night, but for something extra special why not splash out on the penthouse apartment which can accommodate up to 4 adults.
SACRED WATERS
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 9/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $319
Lake View Rooms: from $406
Family Rooms: from $389
Penthouse Apartment: from $731
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Sacred Waters >>
All rooms at Boulevard Waters Motor Lodge have a private patio or balcony, from which you’ll get at least a lake glimpse. Many rooms also have a private spa bath in-room for your luxury and convenience. This is another absolute lakefront offering, where a quick step outside the gate brings you straight to the cool waters of Lake Taupō. There’s a wholesome cafe with excellent coffee just a short stroll away, too, for those lazy morning brunches.
BOULEVARD WATERS MOTOR LODGE
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 9.1/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $274
Lake View Rooms: from $274
Family Rooms: from $303
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Boulevard Waters >>
Anchorage Resort boasts newly renovated and refurbished rooms, as well as lake view rooms with expansive views of Lake Taupō. Directly opposite the Two Mile Bay boat ramp, with boat parking available on site, this is one for the fishermen and boaties out there. Continental and cooked breakfasts are available on request, with excellent refreshment and pizzas available at the Two Mile Bay Sailing Centre when you get back off the boat.
ANCHORAGE RESORT
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 9.1/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $299
Lake View Rooms: from $311
Family Rooms: from $369
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Anchorage Resort >>
As with the other absolute lakefront hotels on this list, The Reef Resort offers guests spectacular views of Lake Taupō and the mountains of the Central Plateau. Accommodation options include luxurious studios and one bedroom suites with floor to ceiling ranch sliders for maximum views. There’s also the option of renting a beautifully appointed two or three bedroom absolute lake edge apartment if budget allows (contact hotel directly).
THE REEF RESORT
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 9/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $264
Lake View Rooms: from $330
Family Rooms: from $367
✅ Check prices and book your stay at The Reef Resort >>
Gables Lakefront Motel is an accommodation option with something for everyone, and another familiar Taupō landmark. Situated right on the lakefront opposite the most popular swimming beach at the lake, guests can enjoy gorgeous lake views from most rooms (some of which have their own spa), as well as partake in a variety of activities like swimming, kayak and paddleboard hire right across the street. One of the town’s best coffee carts is also just across the road as well as gelato during the summer months.
GABLES LAKEFRONT MOTEL
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.6/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $310
Lake View Rooms: from $310
Family Rooms: from $402
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Gables Lakefront Motel >>
VU Thermal Lodge’s biggest drawcard is its thermally powered spas which are heated from a natural hot spring just 25 metres below the hotel. But unfortunately, that’s where the wow factor ends. Although recently revamped, the rooms are dated and old in style, and many offer only lake views from balconies and patios rather than in-room. The location isn’t bad, being just a short stroll to the main swimming beach, but the two-night minimum booking and lack of ability to cater for children may put some travellers off.
VU THERMAL LODGE
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.3/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $446 (min. 2 nights)
Lake View Rooms: from $605 (min. 2 nights)
✅ Check prices and book your stay at VU Thermal Lodge >>
Lakeside Accommodation in Taupō for Families
My Top Pick – Suncourt
Suncourt Taupō is the ideal accommodation for families looking for a peaceful yet comfortable getaway in this lakeside town.
Let’s start with the outdoor heated hot tub and swimming pool which we’re sure the kids will thank you for, and the fact that this is the only lakefront hotel offering a childrens’ playground for hours of fun. Plus, Taupō Mini Golf is right on the doorstep, as well as the lakefront Lion’s Walk pathway great for the littlies on their bikes. For the older kids, the on-site restaurant Lake Bistro offers simple but fine dining, a well-stocked bar and live music on the weekends. In fact, this is a great all-rounder, and well priced for all it offers.
SUNCOURT
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.3/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $265
Lake View Rooms: from $265
Family Rooms: from $277
✅ Click here to check prices and book your stay at Suncourt >>
Cascades is the perfect accommodation for travellers with children. This 4-star resort offers a variety of spacious family-friendly rooms from $288, with lake view rooms also available from $445. All rooms come standard with amenities like Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, while larger room options provide extra space ideal for larger family groups. Enjoy the resort’s on-site pool or take advantage of the many activities in and around the hotel such as the Two Mile Bay sailing centre, and Lion’s Walk pathway. Pets are allowed on request for an extra charge, making it easy to bring the whole family along.
CASCADES
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.5/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $222
Lake View Rooms: from $445
Family Rooms: from $288
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Cascades >>
Lakeside Accommodation in Taupō – Whole House Rentals
If you have a larger group, or would prefer to rent an entire house, here are some other options for absolute lakefront accommodation in Taupō.
- Ultimate Luxury Lake Terrace – $500 per night
- Waimahana Apartment 1 – $350 per night
- Linger Lakeside – $1,100 per night
- Lake Terrace Lodge – $1,100 per night
Not Lakeside, But Still Very Close.
Phoenix Resort offers a luxurious stay in beautiful Taupō, New Zealand. This 4-star hotel is perfect for couples, families or groups of friends looking for a relaxing getaway. Although located near a busy intersection, Phoenix Resort Taupō is still able to provide a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The resort features a trampoline and large garden area that are perfect for children, as well as a picturesque rose garden for adults to explore. Guests can also enjoy private thermal hot tubs, which are perfect for soaking away the stress of everyday life.
PHOENIX RESORT
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 8.4/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $188
Family Rooms: from $385
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Phoenix Resort >>
Karaka Tree Motel is a four-star accommodation situated just across the main road. It offers comfortable double rooms, as well as family rooms that are perfect for families. Guests will be delighted to find that all the upstairs units come with private mineral spas, making it the ideal place for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.
KARAKA TREE MOTEL
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Customer Rating: 6.8/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $173
Family Rooms: from $285
✅ Check prices and book your stay at Karaka Tree Motel >>
The Lake Motel is a charming boutique accommodation set in a quiet location off the main drag and within short walking distance of some of the lake’s best swimming spots. This tranquil hideaway offers guests double rooms from $165, as well as family rooms for up to four people. At The Lake Motel, you’ll be able to experience the beauty of the local area in peace and privacy. The main feature of The Lake Motel is its beautiful peaceful courtyard. Relax by day on the lounge chairs, or admire the evening with a glass of wine in hand at night.
THE LAKE MOTEL
Customer Rating: 8.5/10
Single/Couples Rooms: from $165
Family Rooms: from $225
✅ Check prices and book your stay at The Lake Motel >>
Why Stay Lakeside in Taupō?
If you’ve never been to Taupō before, you may not know that the ‘main route’ through town from north to south takes you directly alongside the shores of the mighty Lake Taupō.
Lake Terrace runs from the Waikato River outlet at the western edges of the CBD, all the way along the outer edge of Tapuaeharuru Bay to the roundabout with State Highway 1 at Wharewaka. That’s 6.5 kilometres of scenic road, with exactly 3.5 kilometres of that being directly lakeside!
Conveniently, Lake Terrace is actually where the highest concentration of hotels and motels are in Taupō, and it’s been that way since ages ago. Most of the options I mention in this article have been in town for many decades, and have a long history of guest satisfaction to go along with them.
Staying at lakeside accommodation in Taupō is a real must-do during your visit. After all, you’re here to see and experience the lake and all it has to offer, so why not get up close and personal?!. At lakefront Taupō accommodation you’ll have direct access (less than 50 metres) to the Lion’s Walk (the lakefront walking path that runs north to south) and the lake itself, where you can swim, walk, bike ride, or even enjoy a coffee and something to eat.
Lakeside Things to Do in Taupō
Lake Taupō Hole in One Challenge
The Taupō Hole in One Challenge is a fun way to test your skills on the waters of Lake Taupō. The challenge requires you to make an exact hole-in-one shot from the tee deck, 102 metres across the lake and straight into the designated floating green. Contestants of all levels are sure to be thrilled by this unique opportunity which pays out $10,000 to anyone skilled enough to make the shot!
Taupō Mini Golf
This historic landmark is Taupō’s original 18-hole mini golf course located right on the edge of the lake, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and waters. Each hole is designed with unique obstacles and features such as ramps, water hazards, and jumps to challenge even the most experienced golfer. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, this course promises to be a fun and exciting way to spend your time in Taupō!
Steaming Bean Coffee Cart & 3 Little Kiwis Gelato
Taupō best and only lakefront coffee cart, the Steaming Bean has been a local landmark for many years. What better way to start (or finish) a scenic walk along the lakefront than with a steaming hot beverage, or perhaps this is the perfect stop along the way. In summer, complement your coffee with a scoop or two of gelato from the nearby 3 Little Kiwis cart.
SUP & Kayak Hire – Pure Kiwi Adventures
During the summer months Pure Kiwi Adventures offers SUP and kayak hire directly from Taupō’s most popular swimming beach on Lake Terrace. Priced from as little as $30 per hour, this is a great way to try your hand (and your balance) with a paddle in hand.
Two Mile Bay Sailing Centre
The Two Mile Bay Sailing Centre is a great place for travellers who want to learn how to sail or just get out on the water and explore. Rent sail boats and catamarans by the hour, or stick with the standard SUP or kayak hire instead. The Sailing Centre has been upgraded and expanded in recent years to include heaps of outdoor seating, lounges and bean bags, to enjoy its excellent coffee, pizzas and ever-expanding menu. There’s also a licensed bar and live music every week. Plus, it’s 100% dog friendly (even indoors) which gives it my tick of approval!
Play N Up Flyboard
Enjoy the feel of fresh air and water zooming past on Lake Taupō’s only Flyboard while you soar up to heights of 20 feet above the lake in a truly unique (and rather science fiction-y) experience. Feel the adrenaline rush as you flip, twist and turn while propelling yourself through the air with a jet-powered board attached to your feet. Not for you? That’s ok too. Spectators are always welcome!
Taupō Pedal Boats
With Taupō Pedal Boat hire you can enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of the lake while also getting a great workout. These comical vehicles come in two-seat and four-seat options, meaning plenty of fun for the whole family. Pedal as fast or as slow as you like to go as far as you dare, the lake is your oyster!
Read More: Check out more things to do in Taupō in my complete Taupō Travel Guide >>
Final Thoughts: Lakeside Accommodation in Taupō
Taupō is a beautiful destination with plenty of lakeside accommodation options to suit any budget. Whether you’re looking for an upscale resort, a romantic getaway or just a comfortable place to stay while exploring the area, there are plenty of great choices in Taupō that will fit your needs and make your holiday even more enjoyable.
Regardless of what you want to spend, this comprehensive list has something that will suit. And if you still can’t decide, feel free to reach out for a personal recommendation!
