Lake Macquarie holiday destination: 10 perfect reasons

6th December 2017•Camplify

Located less than 2 hours from Sydney and less than half an hour into Newcastle, Lake Macquarie is a centrally located holiday destination with easy access to a range of activities. This makes it perfect for a longer trip, with plenty of interesting locations along the way and nearby, and close enough for a weekend getaway.? There are many reasons why Lake Macquarie is a great place to visit on holiday, here's out top 10 reasons:

Lake Macquarie is the largest saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere! Yes that’s right, it’s bigger than Sydney Harbour and it’s ideal for swimming, sailing, fishing and watching the sunset!

Scenic aerial view of Catherine Hill Bay pier on the Lake Macquarie coast at sunset.

This is a kid’s paradise. Speers Point Variety Playground was awarded 'Best Play Space in Australia' in 2011 and features a double flying fox and 9 metre spiral slide. Amenities, picnic and BBQ facilities are located nearby, as is Sal’s by the Lake Cafe. An ideal spot to while away the afternoon, whilst keeping the family entertained.

Playground at Lake Macquarie near the Lake Cafe, with climbing tower and slide.

A step-back in time. Start your day at the historic Catherine Hill Bay for a morning walk under the classic coal-loading wharf. You’ll quickly forget you’re only 2 hours from Sydney!

View from cave, Catherine Hill Bay pier ruins on beach at sunrise.

4.Hidden gems. Caves Beach is an unspoilt surfing and swimming beach with access to a network of large, explorable caves. Make sure you visit at low tide in order to enter the caves.

Inside a Lake Macquarie sea cave, with silhouettes of people on sandy beach.

5.Amazing walks. The Watagans offers peaceful bushland treks and the chance to encounter wildlife. Or, walk around Lake Macquarie itself. Warners Bay to Speers Point will take less than a hour at a leisurely pace.

Tranquil creek flowing through a lush forest near Lake Macquarie.

6.Cafe culture. Warners Bay is known for great food and coffee. Cafes and restaurants including Sephardim, Thai Square and Hippo Espresso provide a variety of cuisines. Caves Beach Hotel & Bistro is also known for its exceptional views and and great menu.

Sunset view over Lake Macquarie from a wooden dock. Pastel orange clouds fill the sky.

7.Events. Whenever you visit, chances are markets, festivals, and sporting events will be under way. Check https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/lake-macquarie-area/events to see what’s happening.

Lively outdoor market in Lake Macquarie, with people browsing stalls on a sunny day.

8.Shopping. If the rain sets in, head to the biggest shopping centre in Lake Macquarie, Charlestown Square. Indulge in some retail therapy, a movie at Readings Cinema, or some indoor fun at Timezone.

Charlestown Square shopping centre at dusk, a Lake Macquarie holiday destination.

9.Wild views. The Pines picnic and camping area offers short walks and well kept camping grounds. Lookouts showcase breathtaking bushland scenery (Heatons, Monkey Face, Narrow Place).

Scenic lookout in Lake Macquarie with picnic table and shelter. Bushland in background.

Get on the water. Kayaking, fishing, boating and swimming in Lake Macquarie and nearby beaches make for a great day out. Whether you are looking for calm waters or waves, you can find it here. More information on swimming spots.

Yellow kayaks lined up on a grassy bank at Lake Macquarie, near calm water with boats in the distance.

Along with the choice of caravan parks, here are just a few of the many reasons why you should make this the destination for your next camping holiday.

Check out our listings available on Camplify in the Lake Macquarie Region

Do you own an RV? Interested in learning how Camplify can help you turn your caravan, camper or motorhome into $5000 - $35,000 per year? Learn more about how Camplify works for owners here ****

The information in this blog is accurate and current as of the date of posting. Please be aware that information, facts, and links may become outdated over time.