Otautu Bay is one of two public access points on Lake Rotoehu, located in the Bay of Plenty region approximately 25 minutes from Rotorua via SH30. The bay has a small public boat ramp, though launching conditions can vary depending on lake levels.

The area is popular for swimming, fishing, and boating. Lake Rotoehu holds only rainbow trout, and having a boat is considered almost essential for fishing it successfully. The northern and western areas of the lake offer shelter for small craft.

Otautu Bay has also been the site of environmental restoration work, including a Parklink remedial treatment program that successfully reduced algae blooms by removing invasive hornwort and installing floating wetlands planted with native species.