Lake Macquarie is a haven for families looking to enjoy a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. With its stunning beaches, lush parks, and numerous family-friendly attractions, there’s something for everyone. Here’s our guide to the top things to do in Lake Macquarie .
1. Explore the Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area
The Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area offers a fantastic day out for families. With its serene walking trails, picnic spots, and wonderful views, it’s perfect for a family hike or a leisurely day in nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including kangaroos and a variety of bird species.
2. Visit Speers Point Park
Speers Point Park is a family favourite, featuring a massive adventure playground that’s sure to delight kids of all ages. The park also has picnic facilities, BBQ areas, and plenty of open space for games and relaxation. Don’t miss the Speers Point Swim Centre if you’re visiting during the warmer months.
3. Enjoy a Day at the Beach
Lake Macquarie boasts several beautiful beaches perfect for a family day out. Caves Beach is particularly popular, known for its fascinating sea caves that can be explored at low tide. Blacksmiths Beach, with its gentle waves, is ideal for younger children and offers great conditions for swimming and sandcastle building.
4. Take a Family Bike Ride
The Fernleigh Track is a picturesque rail trail that runs between Lake Macquarie and Newcastle. It’s perfect for a family bike ride, offering a safe and scenic route through beautiful bushland and historic rail tunnels. Bring a picnic and enjoy a break at one of the many rest stops along the way.
5. Go Boating or Kayaking on the Lake
Lake Macquarie’s vast expanse of water is ideal for boating and kayaking. Rent a boat or kayak and spend the day exploring the lake’s tranquil waters. For those new to kayaking, guided tours are available and provide a safe and enjoyable way to experience the lake.
6. Learn and Play at the Hunter Wetlands Centre
Just a short drive from Lake Macquarie, the Hunter Wetlands Centre is a great educational and recreational destination for families. Kids can learn about wetland ecosystems while enjoying activities like birdwatching, pond dipping, and exploring the interactive discovery playground.
7. Adventure at TreeTop Adventure Park
For families seeking a bit of adventure, TreeTop Adventure Park offers an exciting day out. Located in the Ourimbah State Forest, this park features high ropes courses and zip lines suitable for various ages and skill levels. It’s a fantastic way to challenge yourselves and enjoy the great outdoors.
8. Visit the Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery
Introduce your kids to the world of art at the Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery. The gallery offers a range of exhibitions and interactive programs designed to engage children. The sculpture park and outdoor exhibits are perfect for a leisurely family stroll while appreciating art.
9. Have Fun at Belmont Baths
Belmont Baths is a wonderful spot for families to swim in the safety of a large, enclosed area. The baths feature a netted swimming enclosure, a sandy shoreline, and grassy areas for picnics. It’s a great place for kids to swim and play while parents relax nearby.
10. Visit Grannies pool at blacksmiths beach
One of Lake Macquarie’s best-kept secrets is a lagoon known as Grannies’ Pool. It’s hidden near Blacksmiths Breakwall. Toddlers will love the calm, safe waters, and it is a great spot to have some impromptu swimming lessons.
11. Burn some energy at Redhead Pump Track
At the north end of Nine Mile Beach is Redhead Beach Pump Track. This is Lake Macquarie’s first pump track and has a circuit of rollers and berms. The asphalt track is 154 metres long. Whether you’re riding a bike, skateboard, scooter or rollerblade, you’re welcome on the track.
12. 4WD along Nine Mile Beach
Hit Nine Mile Beach, a long stretch of sand between the patrolled beaches of Redhead Beach in the north and Blacksmiths Beach in the south. Four-wheel-drives can access the beach via Awabakal Ave, Blacksmiths Rd or Kalaroo Rd in Belmont Wetlands State Park, Belmont North. Beach 4WDing requires a permit.