Lake Macquarie is a family favourite destination for Sydneysiders looking to get out of the city over summer. With plenty to see and do, it’s hard to know where to start, so here are 5 hot spots to visit in Lake Macquarie this summer:
1. Caves Beach
Lake Macquarie’s iconic Caves Beach and its extensive network of sea caves and rock pools are ideal for low-tide exploration. Crawl through tight holes, hang out in shady caves or soak up the sunshine on the beach’s sandy shores. Home to the Caves Beach Surf Life Saving Club, a kiosk, bathrooms, barbeques and picnic tables, it’s easy to see why Caves Beach is a firm family favourite.
2. Belmont Baths
Belmont Baths is the perfect spot for a splash during a sunny weekend. Recently reopened at the end of last year after a $850,000 renovation, the Baths now feature a new jetty (perfect for practicing big splash bombs), a large, netted swimming area, a brand-new amenities block, change rooms and foreshore landscaping. If all that swimming gets your tummy rumbling, just a short walk down the road you’ll find Deck 56, known for its stunning lake views and fresh, delicious cuisine.
3. Glenrock State Conservation Area
Escape to Glenrock State Conservation Area and enjoy your breathing space in this secret hideaway. This place is nature’s playground, and if you pay it a visit, you’ll soon understand why. Enjoy beach activities, bushwalking, mountain bike riding, hang gliding and horse-riding, all while feasting on spectacular coastal views along the way. Spanning over 500 hectares, this stunning landscape boasts headlands, beaches, rainforests and the picturesque Glenrock Lagoon.
4. Gap Creek Falls
The Watagans Mountains are always a firm favourite for nature lovers, dotted with a myriad of walking trails, lookouts and campgrounds. Wander from the Gap Creek picnic area at the end of Bangalow Road through lush rainforest, past regal red cedars and a massive Illawarra flame tree, to the majestic Gap Creek Falls. Featuring a sheer 40-metre drop over a cliff face, the beauty of the falls will help you to reconnect with, and get back to nature.
5. Lake Macquarie Sand Islands
Is your idea of heaven bobbing around beautiful blue waters, hopping from one white sandy island to another? And no, this is not Fiji we are talking about – it’s lovely Lake Macquarie. The Lake Macquarie sand islands are a firm favourite with the locals and it’s easy to see why. Whether you explore by boat or choose to swim, just clock onto island time and get lost in the tranquillity.
To learn more about what’s going on in Lake Macquarie over summer and find where to stay when you visit, please visit: http://www.visitlakemac.com.au
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Janeece Keller is the founder and editor of Family Travel. She mostly travels with her husband and two young kids. She has a large blended family that lives in Australia and Europe. She has visited 52 countries and lived on 3 continents. From camping to luxury resorts Janeece tries to make sure her family has diverse holiday experiences each year. She is an avid hiker and ocean swimmer who loves good food, margaritas and heading off the beaten path.