Steamer Wharf

Steamer Wharf which includes boating, general coastal views and a bay or harbor
Steamer Wharf
Steamer Wharf
Steamer Wharf featuring a coastal town
Steamer Wharf featuring signage, shopping and cafe scenes


Chat with the locals over regional delicacies while admiring the impressive view across Lake Wakatipu here in Queenstown's vibrant entertainment district.

Steamer Wharf takes its name from the TSS Earnslaw, the historic steamboat which has been docked here for more than a century. Numerous other boats and yachts use the wharf as well, making it a pleasant spot to sit and watch both impressive marine vessels and people come and go. Tourists and locals alike are also drawn to the buzzing district by its rich nightlife and numerous restaurants, not to mention the local casino.

During the day you can hop on one of many leisure cruises or simply enjoy a wander on the promenade with great views across the waters of the lake. Steamer Wharf's position at the edge of Lake Wakatipu and so close to Queenstown city centre make it the perfect place for visitors to base themselves, and there are a number of accommodation options on offer here to suit every budget.

The bars and restaurants at Steamer Wharf offer a range of excellent locally produced wines. Many establishments offer open-air dining, so patrons can soak up the atmosphere outdoors or sit back and enjoy the spectacular sunset over Lake Wakatipu. However, the wharf's “coolest” bar, the Minus 5 Ice Bar, constructed entirely out of ice, is best enjoyed from the inside.

Next door to the ice bar is Lasseters Wharf Casino, which invites visitors to try their luck with a game of poker or simply spend some time bonding with the friendly locals.

The district's various bars and restaurants have individual opening hours but Steamer Wharf itself is open daily. You can easily walk to Steamer Wharf from the city centre but there is also plentiful free and paid parking in the area for those who arrive by car.

Tours & day trips

See all 109 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 32 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 17 activities

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 15 activities

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

4 out of 5
88 Frankton Road, Queenstown
Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

4 out of 5
24 Frankton Road, Queenstown
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central
Holiday Inn Express And Suites Queenstown by IHG

Holiday Inn Express And Suites Queenstown by IHG

4 out of 5
CNR STANLEY AND SYDNEY STREET, Queenstown
Holiday Inn Express And Suites Queenstown by IHG
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

5 out of 5
110 Frankton Road, Queenstown
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown

4.5 out of 5
91 Fernhill Road, Queenstown
Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown
Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside

4 out of 5
Corner of Earl and Marine Parade, Queenstown
Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Crowne Plaza Hotel Queenstown by IHG

Crowne Plaza Hotel Queenstown by IHG

4.5 out of 5
93 Beach Street, Queenstown, Otago
Crowne Plaza Hotel Queenstown by IHG
Kamana Lakehouse

Kamana Lakehouse

4.5 out of 5
139 Fernhill Road, Queenstown
Kamana Lakehouse
Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

4 out of 5
27 Frankton Road, Queenstown
Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront
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.