Summer in Lake Macquarie

Looking for a short summer break? Planning to visiting friends and family up the coast? Haven't booked a holiday but fancy a last-minute getaway? An easy 90-minute drive from Sydney, Lake Macquarie is the ideal spot for fun in the sun, blissful beaches, picture-perfect picnics, and action aplenty for adrenaline-junkies.

Take a Dip

No visit to Lake Mac is complete without a dip – or many – and with over 30km of unspoiled coastline to choose from – as well as the largest saltwater in the Southern Hemisphere – the area boasts everything from top surf spots to family-friendly beaches to secret bays and serene lakefront locations made for a refreshing swim.

A hidden gem, lakeside Naru Beach is known for its white sandy shores and calm waters. Tucked away, it's only accessible via a dirt road through the rainforest, making it the perfect pick for those who want to get away from everything – and everyone. Take your paddleboard or kayak to explore the Lake's uninhabited sand islands.

At the other end of the spectrum, Redhead Beach is a classic, wide-open beach at the end of a nine-mile stretch of sand backed by soaring red cliffs. Take a pic in front of the retro 1930s timber shark tower.

Caves Beach is a must on any Lake Mac itinerary, but for those who've already explored it – or who prefer their caves without any summer holiday crowds, Ghosties Beach is home to one of the best walk-through beach caves in eastern Australia – just be sure to visit at low tide!

Love the beach but not a fan of big waves? Then Blacksmiths Beach is your best bet. Sheltered inlet Grannies Pool is perfect for toddlers, and the nearby bathrooms, picnic tables and barbecues make it an easy pick for a relaxing family day out. On the other hand, if summer means surfing, then Dudley Beach in Glenrock State Conservation Area will tick all your boxes – it's a favourite amongst local surfers in the know.

Picnic Perfection

Forget catching up with family and friends indoors, why not get out and about and enjoy Lake Mac's stunning parks, playgrounds, and lakeside with these top picks for a picturesque picnic?

Pelican Foreshore Reserve is one of the area's most beloved picnic areas where families can relax on the shady grass, fish from the small jetty, climb on play equipment, or cook a BBQ. You can even arrive by boat thanks to the handy boat ramp.

Perhaps the flagship park for Lake Macquarie, Speers Point Park boasts the 'Best Play Space in Australia', as well as bathrooms, BBQs, sheltered tables and more, so it's a popular picnic spot with families and groups with children.

Those who prefer a quieter style of picnic will love the tranquil banks of Dora Creek, where feeding the resident ducks is always a hit with the kids. Tables, BBQs and bathrooms make this a convenient choice to while away a lazy afternoon.

Celebrating a special occasion? Don't want to shop for picnic goodies? Then let Luxe Lakeside 

do the hard work for you with one of their deluxe picnic experiences – you can choose the location, and they will prepare, and present the food for insta-worthy picnic perfection.

Watersports Galore

There's no shortage of water for action and adventure fans to enjoy in and around Lake Macquarie, and a day on the water is a terrific way to bond with family and friends.

For a coastal sightseeing tour, CoastXP's rigid inflatables are just the ticket, while JetBuzz Watersports is renowned for offering serious thrills and spills on the lake. Prefer something a little more sedate? Then hire a stand-up paddleboard, kayak or paddle boat to potter around the lake at your own pace.

Lake Macquarie Cruises offers lunch and dinner cruises, as well as private charters for special occasions – an awesome choice to celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary with the entire crew – while Lake Macquarie Sailing Tours runs morning and afternoon tours which are tailor made for families and small groups on board its 28-foot yacht.

Departing Trinity Point Marina, Sail Lake Macquarie offers breakfast, twilight, romance, and private packages on board its modern 48-foot yacht with grazing boards, wine, beer, and soft drinks for up to 12 guests included – just step aboard!

Servicing Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Central Coast, B&L Fishing & Cruises helps make memories with its highly engaging and entertaining deep-sea fishing charters – a fun alternative to a traditional family get together for those with a love of open water…and a competitive spirit.

To learn more about the Lake Macquarie and find where to stay when you visit, please visit: http://www.visitlakemac.com.au