Are you looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney? Do you want to experience the natural beauty, diverse attractions, and rich culture of Australia's largest saltwater lake? If yes, then Lake Macquarie is the perfect destination for you. In this ultimate guide, we will show you the best things to do, eat, drink, and stay in Lake Macquarie, as well as how to get there and around. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, a culture vulture, or a relaxation enthusiast, Lake Macquarie has something for everyone. Read on to discover why Lake Macquarie is one of the best travel destinations in Australia.
Things to Do in Lake Macquarie
Lake Macquarie is a natural adventure playground, with plenty of fun to be had on and off the water. Here are some of the best and most popular things to do in Lake Macquarie, divided into categories by nature, adventure, culture, relaxation, and family-friendly.
Nature
Kayaking and Fishing: Explore the lake's 174 km of foreshore, islands, and inlets by kayak, and enjoy the scenic views and wildlife. You can also try your luck at fishing, as the lake is home to a variety of fish species, such as bream, flathead, whiting, and jewfish. You can hire kayaks and fishing gear from local operators, such as Lake Mac Kayak and Bike Hire, or join a guided tour, such as Lake Macquarie Kayak Fishing Tours.
Hiking and Biking: Discover the lake's hinterland, which is filled with lush forests, rolling hills, and stunning vistas. You can hike or bike along the many trails and tracks that crisscross the region, such as the Watagans National Park, the Fernleigh Track, the Awaba Bay Foreshore Walk, and the Belmont Lagoon Reserve. You can hire bikes from local operators, such as Lake Macquarie Bike Hire, or join a guided tour, such as Lake Macquarie Mountain Bike Tours.
Surfing and Swimming: Enjoy the lake's coastline, which boasts some of the best beaches in Australia. You can surf the waves, swim in the crystal-clear water, or relax on the golden sand. Some of the best beaches in Lake Macquarie are Caves Beach, Catherine Hill Bay, Blacksmiths Beach, and Redhead Beach. You can also visit the Lake Macquarie Ocean Baths, which are the largest saltwater pools in the southern hemisphere.
Adventure
Golfing and Sailing: Challenge yourself with some of the best golf courses and sailing spots in Australia. You can play golf at the Belmont Golf Club, the Charlestown Golf Club, the Morisset Golf Club, or the Toronto Country Club, which offer scenic and varied courses for all levels of players. You can also sail on the lake, which is one of the largest and most beautiful sailing venues in Australia. You can hire boats and equipment from local operators, such as Lake Macquarie Sailing Charters, or join a sailing club, such as the Lake Macquarie Yacht Club.
Skydiving and Jet Skiing: Experience the ultimate thrill of skydiving and jet skiing in Lake Macquarie. You can skydive from 15,000 feet and enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake, the coast, and the hinterland. You can book your skydive with local operators, such as Skydive Newcastle, or join a tandem skydive, such as the Lake Macquarie Tandem Skydive. You can also jet ski on the lake, which is one of the most exhilarating and fun ways to explore the lake. You can hire jet skis and equipment from local operators, such as JetBuzz Watersports, or join a jet ski tour, such as the Lake Macquarie Jet Ski Safari.
Culture
Art Gallery and Dobell House: Appreciate the art and culture of Lake Macquarie, which is home to some of the finest artists and artworks in Australia. You can visit the Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery, which showcases contemporary and Aboriginal art, as well as sculptures, ceramics, and textiles. You can also visit the Dobell House, which is the former home and studio of Sir William Dobell, one of Australia's most celebrated painters. You can see his original paintings, sketches, and personal belongings, as well as learn about his life and legacy.
Markets and Shops: Experience the local markets and shops of Lake Macquarie, which offer a range of products and cuisines. You can visit the Lake Macquarie Farmers Market, which is held every second and fourth Saturday of the month at Speers Point Park. You can buy fresh and organic produce, baked goods, flowers, and crafts, as well as enjoy live music and entertainment. You can also visit the Lake Macquarie Square, which is the largest shopping centre in the region. You can find a variety of stores, such as fashion, beauty, homewares, and electronics, as well as a food court, a cinema, and a library.
Relaxation
Spas and Picnic Areas: Relax and rejuvenate in Lake Macquarie, which offers some of the best spas and picnic areas in Australia. You can visit the Spa Elysia, which is part of the Golden Door Health Retreat. You can enjoy a range of treatments, such as massages, facials, body wraps, and aromatherapy, as well as access to the sauna, steam room, and pool. You can also visit the Lake Macquarie Memorial Park, which is a peaceful and serene place to relax and reflect. You can enjoy a picnic in the landscaped gardens, which feature a lake, a fountain, and a chapel.
Family-Friendly
Playgrounds and Parks: Have fun with your family in Lake Macquarie, which offers some of the best playgrounds and parks in Australia. You can visit the Speers Point Park, which features the Lake Macquarie Variety Playground, one of the largest and most accessible playgrounds in Australia. You can play on the giant slide, the flying fox, the climbing tower, the water play area, and more. You can also visit the Pelican Foreshore Park, which features a playground, a skate park, a picnic area, and a beach.
Where to Eat and Drink in Lake Macquarie
Lake Macquarie is a foodie's paradise, with a range of cafes, restaurants, bars, and pubs that offer quality, variety, and local produce. Here are some of the best and most popular places to eat and drink in Lake Macquarie, divided into categories by cafes, restaurants, bars, and pubs.
Cafes
Awaba House: Enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch at Awaba House, which is a historic mansion overlooking the lake. You can savour dishes such as eggs benedict, pancakes, burgers, salads, and cakes, as well as coffee, tea, and juice. You can also admire the art and history of the house, which hosts exhibitions and events.
Brown Sugar: Treat yourself to a scrumptious brunch or afternoon tea at Brown Sugar, which is a cosy and charming cafe in Warners Bay. You can indulge in dishes such as bacon and egg roll, smashed avocado, French toast, scones, and muffins, as well as coffee, tea, and smoothies. You can also enjoy the friendly and welcoming service and atmosphere.
Deck 56: Relax and unwind at Deck 56, which is a modern and stylish cafe in Belmont. You can enjoy dishes such as omelette, granola, fish and chips, pizza, and pasta, as well as coffee, tea, and wine. You can also enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the marina from the deck.
Restaurants
Lake Macquarie Yacht Club: Dine and drink at Lake Macquarie Yacht Club, which is a waterfront restaurant and bar in Belmont. You can feast on dishes such as seafood platter, steak, chicken schnitzel, and burgers, as well as beer, wine, and cocktails. You can also enjoy the live music and entertainment, as well as the sailing and boating activities.
The Boathouse: Experience the fine dining and service at The Boathouse, which is a contemporary restaurant and function centre in Blacksmiths. You can sample dishes such as scallops, lamb, duck, and barramundi, as well as beer, wine, and champagne. You can also enjoy the elegant and spacious setting, as well as the views of the lake and the beach.
The Gunyah Hotel: Have fun and food at The Gunyah Hotel, which is a lively and casual pub and restaurant in Belmont. You can munch on dishes such as nachos, wings, pizza, and ribs, as well as beer, wine, and spirits. You can also enjoy the games and trivia, as well as the live music and DJ.
Bars
Caves Beachside Hotel: Chill and sip at Caves Beachside Hotel, which is a chic and trendy hotel and bar in Caves Beach. You can drink cocktails, wine, and beer, as well as nibble on snacks, such as cheese, charcuterie, and pizza. You can also enjoy the views of the ocean and the caves, as well as the events and functions.
Redhead Beach Surf Lifesaving Club: Hang out and quench your thirst at Redhead Beach Surf Lifesaving Club, which is a friendly and relaxed club and bar in Redhead. You can drink beer, wine, and soft drinks, as well as snack on chips, pies, and sandwiches. You can also enjoy the views of the beach and the cliffs, as well as the surf lifesaving activities and events.
Squid's Ink: Sip and savour at Squid's Ink, which is a sophisticated and intimate hotel and bar in Belmont. You can drink cocktails, wine, and spirits, as well as taste dishes, such as oysters, cheese, and chocolate. You can also enjoy the views of the lake and the jetty, as well as the live music and entertainment.
Where to Stay in Lake Macquarie
Lake Macquarie is a comfortable and convenient place to stay, with a range of hotels, motels, resorts, cottages, cabins, and campgrounds that suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best and most popular places to stay in Lake Macquarie, divided into categories by hotels, motels, resorts, cottages, cabins, and campgrounds.
Hotels
Belmont Bayview Park: Stay and play at Belmont Bayview Park, which is a family-friendly and affordable hotel and park in Belmont. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as cabins, villas, and studios, which are equipped with amenities, such as air conditioning, kitchen, and TV. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a barbecue area, and a playground.
Caves Beachside Hotel: Stay and relax at Caves Beachside Hotel, which is a chic and luxurious hotel and spa in Caves Beach. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as suites, penthouses, and villas, which are equipped with amenities, such as balcony, spa bath, and fireplace. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a restaurant, a bar, and a function centre.
Squid's Ink: Stay and indulge at Squid's Ink, which is a sophisticated and intimate hotel and bar in Belmont. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as rooms, suites, and apartments, which are equipped with amenities, such as lake view, jacuzzi, and minibar. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a restaurant, a bar, and a lounge.
Motels
Lake Macquarie Motor Inn: Stay and rest at Lake Macquarie Motor Inn, which is a clean and comfortable motel in Belmont. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as standard, deluxe, and family rooms, which are equipped with amenities, such as air conditioning, fridge, and microwave. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a laundry, and a parking.
The Esplanade Motel: Stay and enjoy at The Esplanade Motel, which is a modern and stylish motel in Warners Bay. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as queen, king, and twin rooms, which are equipped with amenities, such as balcony, kitchenette, and TV. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a restaurant, a cafe, and a conference room.
The Brighton Apartments: Stay and explore at The Brighton Apartments, which is a spacious and convenient motel in Toronto. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, which are equipped with amenities, such as air conditioning, kitchen, and laundry. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a gym, a barbecue area, and a parking.
Resorts
Lake Macquarie Resort: Stay and pamper at Lake Macquarie Resort, which is a tranquil and luxurious resort in Balcolyn. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as cottages, bungalows, and lodges, which are equipped with amenities, such as fireplace, spa bath, and veranda. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a tennis court, and a spa.
Rafferty's Resort: Stay and have fun at Rafferty's Resort, which is a family-friendly and lively resort in Cams Wharf. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as rooms, cottages, and terraces, which are equipped with amenities, such as air conditioning, kitchen, and TV. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a playground, and a restaurant.
The Sebel Trinity Wharf: Stay and admire at The Sebel Trinity Wharf, which is a stunning and elegant resort in Trinity Point. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as rooms, suites, and penthouses, which are equipped with amenities, such as balcony, bathtub, and minibar. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a gym, and a marina.
Cottages
Bluebell Retreat: Stay and unwind at Bluebell Retreat, which is a cosy and charming cottage in Holmesville. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom cottages, which are equipped with amenities, such as fireplace, kitchen, and TV. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a garden, a barbecue area, and a hot tub.
Catherine Hill Bay Cottages: Stay and experience at Catherine Hill Bay Cottages, which are historic and authentic cottages in Catherine Hill Bay. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as miners, surfers, and beach cottages, which are equipped with amenities, such as air conditioning, fridge, and microwave. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a beach, a park, and a pub.
Lake Macquarie Cottage: Stay and delight at Lake Macquarie Cottage, which is a lovely and spacious cottage in Fishing Point. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as two-bedroom, three-bedroom, and four-bedroom cottages, which are equipped with amenities, such as balcony, kitchen, and laundry. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a jetty, and a boat ramp.
Cabins
Belmont Lakeside Holiday Park: Stay and play at Belmont Lakeside Holiday Park, which is a fun and affordable park and cabin in Belmont. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as cabins, villas, and studios, which are equipped with amenities, such as air conditioning, kitchen, and TV. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a playground, and a boat ramp.
Lake Macquarie Holiday Park: Stay and relax at Lake Macquarie Holiday Park, which is a peaceful and scenic park and cabin in Mannering Park. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as cabins, cottages, and bungalows, which are equipped with amenities, such as air conditioning, kitchen, and TV. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a barbecue area, and a lake.
Wangi Point Holiday Park: Stay and explore at Wangi Point Holiday Park, which is a beautiful and convenient park and cabin in Wangi Wangi. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as cabins, villas, and studios, which are equipped with amenities, such as air conditioning, kitchen, and TV. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a playground, and a jetty.
Campgrounds
Blacksmiths Beachside Holiday Park: Stay and camp at Blacksmiths Beachside Holiday Park, which is a friendly and spacious park and campground in Blacksmiths. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as tents, caravans, and campervans, which are equipped with amenities, such as power, water, and sullage. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a barbecue area, and a beach.
Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area: Stay and connect at Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area, which is a natural and serene park and campground in Morisset. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as tents, caravans, and campervans, which are equipped with amenities, such as fire pits, picnic tables, and toilets. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a lake, a forest, and a wildlife.
Swansea Gardens Lakeside Holiday Park: Stay and enjoy at Swansea Gardens Lakeside Holiday Park, which is a modern and comfortable park and campground in Swansea. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, such as tents, caravans, and campervans, which are equipped with amenities, such as power, water, and sullage. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as a pool, a playground, and a lake.
How to Get to and Around Lake Macquarie
Lake Macquarie is easy and convenient to get to and around, with a range of transport options, such as car, train, bus, or plane. Here is some information on how to get to and around Lake Macquarie from Sydney or other major cities.
By Car
- The easiest and fastest way to get to Lake Macquarie by car is via the M1 Pacific Motorway, which connects Sydney and Newcastle. The drive takes about 90 minutes from Sydney and 30 minutes from Newcastle, depending on traffic and weather conditions. You can exit the motorway at various points, such as Morisset, Doyalson, or Warners Bay, depending on your destination in Lake Macquarie. You can also use the M1 Pacific Motorway to access other nearby destinations, such as the Hunter Valley, the Central Coast, and Port Stephens.
- Alternatively, you can take the scenic route to Lake Macquarie by car, via the Pacific Highway or the Old Pacific Highway, which follow the coast and pass through various towns and villages, such as Swansea, Charlestown, and Toronto. The drive takes about two hours from Sydney and 45 minutes from Newcastle, depending on traffic and weather conditions. You can enjoy the views of the ocean, the lake, and the bush, as well as stop at various attractions and landmarks along the way.
By Train
- The cheapest and most eco-friendly way to get to Lake Macquarie by train is via the NSW TrainLink, which operates daily services between Sydney and Newcastle. The train takes about two and a half hours from Sydney and 45 minutes from Newcastle, depending on the schedule and the stops. You can board the train at various stations, such as Central, Strathfield, Hornsby, or Broadmeadow, depending on your location in Sydney or Newcastle. You can alight the train at various stations, such as Morisset, Dora Creek, or Fassifern, depending on your destination in Lake Macquarie. You can also use the NSW TrainLink to access other nearby destinations, such as the Hunter Valley, the Central Coast, and Port Stephens.
- Alternatively, you can take the light rail to Lake Macquarie by train, via the Newcastle Light Rail, which operates daily services between Newcastle Interchange and Newcastle Beach. The light rail takes about 15 minutes, depending on the schedule and the stops. You can board the light rail at Newcastle Interchange, which is connected to the NSW TrainLink, or at any of the six stops along the route, such as Honeysuckle, Civic, or Queens Wharf. You can alight the light rail at Newcastle Beach, which is close to the Lake Macquarie ferry terminal. You can enjoy the views of the city, the harbour, and the beach, as well as explore the attractions and landmarks along the way.
By Bus
- The most convenient and flexible way to get to Lake Macquarie by bus is via the Newcastle Buses, which operate daily services between Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. The bus takes about an hour from Newcastle, depending on the schedule and the stops. You can board the bus at various locations, such as Newcastle Interchange, Charlestown Square, or Glendale Shopping Centre, depending on your location in Newcastle. You can alight the bus at various locations, such as Belmont, Swansea, or Warners Bay, depending on your destination in Lake Macquarie. You can also use the Newcastle Buses to access other nearby destinations, such as the Hunter Valley, the Central Coast, and Port Stephens.
- Alternatively, you can take the coach to Lake Macquarie by bus, via the Greyhound Australia, which operates daily services between Sydney and Brisbane. The coach takes about three hours from Sydney and eight hours from Brisbane, depending on the schedule and the stops. You can board the coach at various locations, such as Sydney Central Station, Sydney Airport, or Newcastle Interchange, depending on your location in Sydney or Brisbane. You can alight the coach at Belmont, which is the closest stop to Lake Macquarie. You can enjoy the comfort and amenities of the coach, such as reclining seats, free WiFi, and USB chargers, as well as the views of the countryside and the coast.
By Plane
- The fastest and most comfortable way to get to Lake Macquarie by plane is via the Newcastle Airport, which is the closest airport to Lake Macquarie. The flight takes about an hour from Sydney and two hours from Brisbane, depending on the airline and the schedule. You can board the plane at various airports, such as Sydney Airport, Brisbane Airport, or Melbourne Airport, depending on your location in Australia. You can alight the plane at Newcastle Airport, which is about 50 km from Lake Macquarie. You can enjoy the convenience and safety of the plane, as well as the views of the sky and the land.
- Alternatively, you can take the helicopter to Lake Macquarie by plane, via the Lake Macquarie Airport, which is a small airport in Pelican. The helicopter takes about 15 minutes from Newcastle and 45 minutes from Sydney, depending on the operator and the weather. You can board the helicopter at various locations, such as Newcastle Airport, Sydney Airport, or Hunter Valley, depending on your location and preference. You can alight the helicopter at Lake Macquarie Airport, which is about 10 km from Lake Macquarie. You can enjoy the thrill and excitement of the helicopter, as well as the views of the lake, the coast, and the hinterland.
Once you are in Lake Macquarie, you can get around the region by various transport options, such as public transport, bike, car, or boat.
Public Transport: You can use the public transport to get around Lake Macquarie, which is operated by Newcastle Buses and NSW TrainLink. You can catch buses and trains that connect various towns and villages in Lake Macquarie, such as Belmont, Swansea, Warners Bay, Morisset, Dora Creek, and Fassifern. You can also catch buses and trains that connect Lake Macquarie with other nearby destinations, such as Newcastle, the Hunter Valley, the Central Coast, and Port Stephens. You can buy tickets from the driver, the station, or the machine, or use an Opal card, which is a smartcard that you can top up and tap on and off.
Bike: You can use the bike to get around Lake Macquarie, which is a fun and healthy way to explore the region. You can ride along the many trails and tracks that crisscross the region, such as the Watagans National Park, the Fernleigh Track, the Awaba Bay Foreshore Walk, and the Belmont Lagoon Reserve. You can also ride along the lake's foreshore, which is a scenic and flat route that passes through various parks, beaches, and cafes. You can hire bikes from local operators, such as Lake Macquarie Bike Hire, or bring your own bike, which you can store and transport on the buses and trains.
Car: You can use the car to get around Lake Macquarie, which is the most convenient and flexible way to explore the region. You can drive along the various roads and highways that connect various towns and villages in Lake Macquarie, such as the Pacific Highway, the Old Pacific Highway, the Lake Macquarie Drive, and the Rutleys Road. You can also drive along the lake's coastline, which is a scenic and winding route that passes through various beaches, cliffs, and caves. You can hire cars from local operators, such as Lake Macquarie Car Hire, or bring your own car, which you can park and fuel at various locations.
Boat: You can use the boat to get around Lake Macquarie, which is the most exhilarating and fun way to explore the region. You can sail, cruise, or paddle on the lake, which is one of the largest and most beautiful sailing venues in Australia. You can also visit the lake's islands and inlets, which are home to a variety of wildlife and vegetation. You can hire boats and equipment from local operators, such as Lake Macquarie Sailing Charters, JetBuzz Watersports, or Lake Mac Kayak and Bike Hire, or bring your own boat, which you can launch and dock at various locations.
Lake Macquarie is a stunning and diverse destination, with a range of things to do, eat, drink, and stay. Whether you are looking for a tranquil escape, a fun adventure, a cultural experience, or a relaxing retreat, Lake Macquarie has something for you. Lake Macquarie is also easy and convenient to get to and around, with a range of transport options, such as car, train, bus, or plane.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Lake Macquarie today, and discover why it is one of the best travel destinations in Australia.
